A FEW THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE ENROLLING
If most performing arts schools seem to have a friendly staff, qualified teachers, and a recital at the end of the year, aren’t they all the same ~ does it really matter where you enroll? Yes! There are a few things that can make a huge difference in the quality of instruction your child receives and the overall enjoyment and satisfaction of being involved with an arts program. Here is what every parent should consider before deciding on a school:
1. WHAT ARE THE CLASS SIZES?
Smaller class sizes allow the teacher to ensure each student understands the concepts and instructions without developing improper technique. Our school limits our young children’s program (ages 2 - 6) to a maximum of nine students per class and the upper levels to a maximum of twelve.
2. CAN I GET IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE AND CLIENT SERVICE?
Our school has office staff on hand after 12pm during the week and from 9-12pm on Saturdays. You receive immediate assistance and all phone calls and emails are returned within 24 hours.
3. AM I ABLE TO WATCH MY CHILD IN CLASS? Our closed circuit color camera system allows parents to observe classrooms from our lobby. Parents can enjoy their child’s progress without disturbing the student/teacher classroom dynamic.
4. IS THE YOUNG CHILDREN'S PROGRAM EDUCATONAL AND FUN?
Children under 7 are taught an educational and fun curriculum introducing them to the basics of dance, music, and theatre through combination classes. This program provides a solid foundation for future success in Ballet, Tap, Musical Theatre, and other style that interests them.
5. WILL MY CHILD PERFORM?
Students are given performance experience in our year-end recital, which is a special time for them to shine and demonstrate the skills they have mastered during the year. They may also audition for our Dance Company or Vocal Ensemble, groups that perform locally and attend competitions.
6. MY CHILD DOESN'T LIKE BALLET - IS IT REQUIRED?
We strongly encourage ballet, although it is not required unless you are invloved in Dance Company. Ballet is the foundation of all forms of dance and proper technique is extremely important in developing a dancer's muscles and preventing injuries. The technique gained through ballet training is best developed between ages 5 - 11 and will provide the basics necessary for tap, jazz, and acrobatics.
7. WHAT TYPE OF DANCE FLOOR IS USED?
Dance is a very physical activity that requires a lot of jumping which can put stress on bones and joints. Most dance footwear does not provide much support, so the shock of dance movement can place a lot of pressure on the knees and back of a dancer. The best way to prevent injury is by choosing a school with a professional “floating floor.” This is a floor that rests on a system of high density foam to absorb the shock of jumping.
The top layer of the dance floor is also an important factor. A vinyl composite “Marley” floor is accepted worldwide as the best surface layer for recreational and professional dance. A Marley floor allows dancers a controlled slide without risk of falling. Our school has floating floors with high density foam blocks under the surface and a Marley top surface. These special floors reduce the risk of injury and allow students to dance longer without getting tired.
8. AM I STARTING MY CHILD AT THE RIGHT AGE?
We start our dancers at age 2 with Mommy & Me, although dancers may begin at any age. If a child shows an interest in music before age 5, group classes will give them a good foundation in the basics. Children can begin instrument lessons ate age 5 since they've developed longer attention spans and can retain material with ease. Due to the physical nature of voice lessons (proper breathing techniques, development of the vocal chords, and lung capacity), children under 6 are generally not ready for the rigors of vocal technique.
9. DO I HAVE TO HAVE A PIANO AT HOME TO TAKE PIANO LESSONS?
It is ideal if you have a piano at home, but you can start lessons and use an electric keyboard for practice. We recommend a keyboard that has regular sized keys and a touch sensitive response.
10. CAN ANYONE BE TAUGHT TO SING?
Anyone capable of speech is capable of singing. Some people are better than others at matching pitch, but by practicing at home with your recorded lesson you can work on warm-ups and skills. To help you progress we provide lyrics, vocal demo tracks, and instrumental tracks in musical styles ranging from opera to pop.