Ballet
With its graceful and precise movements, ballet focuses on building strength, control and flexibility. Emphasis is placed on the method and execution of movement.
CURRICULUM
Ballet is a formal division discipline and students must be 6 years old (by September 14, 2009) to enroll in the program. Upon their enrollment students are placed in levels according to their age and ability. Each level is designed to help a student master the technique of Ballet.
Requirements are established to ensure the safety and development of the dancer.
The School offers all new students a free trial class in order for our faculty to correctly level the dancer.
Level 1/Ballet with Tap 1 - Introduction to Formal Ballet (and Tap)
This class is designed for young dancers who have completed the Early Dance division or are exploring dance for the first time. Dancers will be given a solid foundation while further enhancing musical awareness, rhythm and coordination. Dancers will explore dance technique while having fun in a positive and nurturing environment.
Level 1x - Beginner Ballet technique
2 Ballet classes per week recommended
Level 2 - Intermediate Beginner Ballet technique
2 Ballet classes per week strongly recommended
Level 2x - Advanced Beginner Ballet technique
2 Ballet classes per week required
Level 3 - Intermediate Ballet technique with Preparatory Pointe
2 Ballet classes per week required. 3 Ballet classes per week strongly recommended.
1 Jazz class per week recommended.
Level 3x - Preparatory Advanced Ballet technique with Beginner Pointe
3 Ballet classes per week required. 4 Ballet classes per week strongly recommended.
1 Jazz class per week recommended.
Level 4-5 - Advanced Ballet technique and Intermediate Advanced Pointe
4 Ballet classes per week required. 5 Ballet classes per week strongly recommended.
1 Jazz class per week required.
Teen Ballet - Ages 12 & up with little or no previous training.
Ballet for Jazz - Appropriate for Rock West Jazz Level 3x-5 dancers with previous Ballet training.
This class focuses on placement and proper use of turnout and technique, emphasizing its importance for jazz training. This is a non-Showcase class.
DRESS CODE
Rock West dress codes are established for the dancer's safety and aid in the instructor's ability to correct and educate students.
FEMALE
Leotard - Solid black leotard
Tights - Pink (levels 4, 4x, 5 may wear pink or black)
Ballet Slippers or Pointe Shoes - Pink
Hair in a bun.
Sheer skirts may be worn in Pointe and Variations classes at the teacher's discretion.
No leg warmers, t-shirts, tank tops, sweatpants or shorts will be allowed.
All accessories, including jewelry, must be removed before class.
MALE
Shirt - Solid, fitted white t-shirt
Tights - Black
Shoes - White or black ballet slippers (levels 3x to 5 must wear white)
For levels 3 and under gym shorts may be worn over black tights
INSTRUCTOR-STUDENT CONTACT
The Rock School offers teaching that is individual and hands-on. It is normal and appropriate for a member of the faculty to manually and physically position a pupil to expound a point of instruction or to identify some needed technique correction. The School neither condones nor tolerates any touching of students by instructors that is harmful, professionally reckless, or that violates generally accepted tenets of propriety. Before enrolling a student, please consider that it is school policy to correct children with physical contact. If the student or parent/guardian is uncomfortable with this policy, you may wish to reconsider enrolling the student.