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How to Choose a Dance
School
For children who enter the field of dance, each with different degree of interest, there are numerous dance schools to choose from. You have heard of the well known professional schools such as the National Ballet School or the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School, for example, that are only available through auditions. This is for a more seriously motivated child with a natural talent who possesses the classical body type. In order to assure parents that their children are getting proper training, the certification of the school and their teachers is what is most important. In Canada, there are a number of dance organizations with different styles of training, but all with the same basic technical strength. These are: Cecchetti; Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (ISTD); Royal Academy of Dance (RAD); Vaganova; Bolshoi; Russian Society; Canadian Dance Teachers Association (CDTA); British Association Teachers of Dance (BATD); Dance Masters of America (DMA); and Dance Educator of America (DEA). All of these associations have a set syllabus and guidelines for the proper teaching of children, and offer regular workshops for teachers to upgrade and maintain their knowledge in teaching proper dance technique to their students. There are different levels of teacher certification. Young assistants can become Affiliate members so they can start taking part and reaping the benefits of workshops, but they have not yet been tested. Associate members have passed a younger level of teaching certification. They are expected to continue teaching under the guidance of a full membership teacher until they are to attempt a full membership exam. Full membership means a teacher has passed all levels of teaching and is fully accredited. Whatever the qualifications of the teachers, continuous teacher training through these associations is a must and whatever the capabilities of the children, it is vital that proper training of dance technique and study be taught to avoid injury. The bone, tendons and muscles of these young students need proper development, strength and flexibility as their body grows along with their years of dance study. The children's environment is also important. The appearance of the studio and the teacher are strong indicators of the level of professionalism offered by the school. Parents must be able to approach the teachers and/or staff with their questions or concerns. After all, the children's discipline and appearance in class along with good interaction with fellow peers, develops self-discipline, self-esteem and confidence. These characteristics carry on though life. For example, many of Gaetane's former students have continued as teachers, doctors, and in other professional careers. They have thanked me for the love of dance and the discipline they acquired in their dance classes. If you have more questions about choosing the right dance school, contact us. We would be happy to help you in any way. |
Everyone
enjoys music and dance in one form or another,
but when it comes to choosing the right dance
school for children, it becomes more of a
challenge. Where should they enroll? What subject
should they take? At what age? |
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