Ballet Technique classes (for students second grade and up) are the foundation for training at the Conservatory and focus on developing a solid ballet technique with emphasis on understanding correct body placement, proper use of turn out, coordination of the upper body (epaulement), and use of arms (port de bras). The Conservatory’s unique syllabus exposes students to aspects of traditional French, Vaganova (Russian), and American techniques. Class begins with work at the barre to build strength and coordination, followed by center exercises, culminating in a grand allegro combination or variation. Clear explanations of exercises and theory help students use the ballet vocabulary in a simple, practical way that leads to increased technical understanding, healthy physical development, and lifelong enjoyment. Students 11 and older with strong ballet technique, sufficient core and ankle strength, and a teacher’s recommendation go on to study ‘en pointe’. Advanced students of the Ballet Program may audition for the Conservatory’s pre-professional company: Ridgefield Civic Ballet.
Level I is generally for Dancers in grades 1-5 in Fall 2023, or older beginners.
Level II is generally for Dancers in grades 5-7 in Fall 2023, or older beginners.
Level III is generally for intermediate Dancers in middle school in Fall 2023, or older beginners.
Level IV is generally for intermediate/advanced Dancers in high school in Fall 2023.
Level V is generally for advanced Dancers in high school.
Pre-Pointe is for Dancers wishing to prepare for eventual pointe work through strengthening and conditioning. Progressional to pointe work is by evaluation and recommendation only.
Pointe IV Beginner is for intermediate/advanced Dancers in Ballet IV taking a minimum of two ballet technique classes per week. This is the only pointe class new pointe dancers may take. A ballet technique class always must be taken on the same day immediately prior to the pointe class. Experienced pointe dancers may add a Pointe IV Beginner class.
Pointe IV Experienced is for intermediate/advanced Dancers in Ballet IV taking a minimum of two ballet technique classes per week. A ballet technique class always must be taken on the same day immediately prior to the pointe class.
Pointe V is for advanced Dancers in Ballet V taking a minimum of two ballet technique classes per week. A ballet technique class always must be taken on the same day immediately prior to the pointe class.