Thistle Academy Class Description

Mommy & Me Dance - Ages 2-3, one hour. A readiness program for future dancers and their moms. This FUN introduction to dance and music uses activity songs, instruments, teddy bears, scarves, etc.....to develop listening skills, memory, coordination and basic motor skills through creative movement. This class is available in 8 week sign-up sessions.

Tiny Tots - Ages 3-4, one hour. Pre-ballet and tap, using activity songs and exercises that teach dance terminology; basic rhythm patterns and self-expression; and an introduction to classical music. The class focus is on the development of coordination, concentration, listening skills and self confidence; for learning teamwork, cooperation and positive interaction. The classes are structured and paced for the young learner in a LOVING, NURTURING environment. A FUN introduction to the JOY of dance.

Kinderdancing - Ages 4-5, one hour. Introduction to ballet and tap. Focusing on the development of coordination, self expression, listening skills, concentration, memory and self confidence through dance activities that are specific in their objectives, and FUN for the children. The class stimulates physical, emotional and intellectual growth and a beginning appreciation of classical music as well as fostering social skills in a loving environment that exemplifies the JOY of dance.

Ballet and Tap - Ages 6-8, one hour. A foundation class of beginning techniques and applications of both forms of dance. This stimulating environment fosters a love and appreciation of the performing arts while experiencing physical, emotional, intellectual and social growth. Classical French terminology is taught in all ballet classes.

Intermediate Ballet - Ages 9-14, one hour. Intermediate level of classical ballet, incorporating barre exercises, center floor technique and combinations, adagio, allegro, jumps and turns.

Trio - Ballet, Tap and Jazz - Ages 8-9 (must be in at least 3rd grade), one and one half hours. An introduction to jazz, along with the appropriate level of ballet and tap study. Ballet and a tap routine will be performed in the spring show.

Classical Ballet - Ages 10-Adult, one and one half hours. Barre exercises, center floor technique and combinations, adagio, allegro, jumps and turns.

Classical Pre-Pointe / Level I & II - Ages 10-Adult, one and one half hours. Eligible students must have at least three years of ballet training. Class consists of strengthening and preparation for pointe study.

Classical Pointe - Ages 11-Adult, one and one half hours. By recommendation of the faculty. Proper physical qualifications, emotional maturity, and at least three consecutive years of ballet training in the Academy (or by audition if transferred from another school ). For the disciplined and highly motivated student.

Advanced Classical Pointe - Ages 16 - adult, one and one half hours. For advanced Classical Pointe students only, by recommendation of the faculty.

Jazz and Tap / Level l & II - Ages 9-Adult, two hours. Studies of all styles and techniques of jazz, incorporating jazz stretches, exercises, jumps, turns, progressions and combinations. Tap segment of the class includes rhythmic analysis, styles and techniques of vintage tap to the current forms. The jazz segment of the class is one and one half hours; the tap is 30 minutes. The knowledge of tap dance, and the sense of musicality it develops , is essential for all musical theater and jazz performance.

Jazz, Tap and Lyrical / Level lII & up - Two hours - Offered only to third year jazz students and advanced levels. Because lyrical style jazz has its roots in ballet, the simultaneous study of ballet is a pre-requisite for this class.

Hip Hop - Minimum age 13 yrs - one and one half hours. This Jammin' jazz class incorporates the latest high energy street-style moves. Class begins with a jazz warm-up.

Adult Jazz & Tap - One and one half hours. A fun study of all styles of jazz, incorporating jazz stretches. Tap segment of the class is 30 minutes. All skill levels welcome.