Technical Advice for Level 1-4 Dancers

Dancers in Level 1 - Level 4 Classes

The three most important classes for dancers at this age: Classical Ballet, Tap and Jazz/Turns & Leaps.

  • Classical ballet provides the technical foundation and quality of movement which supports most genres of dance. In ballet levels 1-4, our focus is to developing a strong technical foundation and proper body alignment. In ballet levels 5 and up we layer the focus of artistry and performance. In addition to the many physical benefits of classical training, ballet helps develop the mind and attitude of the dancer with discipline, focus and appreciation of structure which are critical attributes for a dancers success.  Ballet training is essential for any dancer who wants to excel in jazz and contemporary styles as the technique and vocabulary for these disciplines come from ballet.

  • Tap is important for dancers from preschool through the fourth grade because it helps dancers develop rhythm, timing, musicality and coordination. These skills serve as critical building blocks for all dance genres.

  • Jazz builds strength, flexibility, body and mental awareness and style; providing the necessary skills for possible participation in junior and senior high school extracurricular activities such as dance company, drill team, and musical theatre. Because of the technical demands in jazz, students are encouraged to supplement their jazz training with a Turns & Leaps class.

  • If a dancer trains in Ballet and Tap until the fourth grade, they will be technically ready for level 5 Jazz without ever taking a jazz class. This is because ballet will instill proper technique and tap will provide the intricate skills of musicality and rhythm. Jazz will help to layer style and performance quality to the dancer’s foundation. If a dancer in level 1-4 wants to prepare for one of UDA’s performance or competitive programs, jazz is essential as these programs are jazz based.

  • Additional dance classes available for dancers this age: Tumbling, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, and Dance Improv.

  • Programs available for dancers at this age; Stars Ballet and Jazz Performance Programs, the Varsity Competition Jazz Program and the Conservatory Competitive Jazz Program.


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