Students must be placed in a class that is level AND age appropriate. The instructor will be observing students during the first month of classes, and will make recommendations, if needed, to place their student in a different, more suitable class.

*Please be advised: If a student has not fulfilled the required years or level of experience, it is suggested they take the lower level class to ensure they learn the prerequisite material and skills.

2022-23 Classes and Descriptions

What is Classical Ballet? Technique based on body alignment, proper placement and posture. Barre and center floor work are combined with choreography combinations to teach musicality, rhythm, coordination and flexibility. Ballet provides a foundation for all other forms of dance as well as conditioning for sports and injury prevention. Ballet is the basis for all forms of dance and in encouraged for all dancers, as well as athletes wishing to gain better body control, alignment and core strength. Ballet teaches discipline, self-control, respect and self-awareness. At FSD, we use a ballet curriculum that based on a combination of the French, Vaganova and Cecchetti methods.

*Please be advised: If a student has not fulfilled the required years or level of experience, it is suggested they take the lower level class to ensure they learn the prerequisite material and skills.

Creative Movement – Age 3, The structure of a classroom environment is introduced and the children learn to take simple direction from the teacher. Children gain body awareness and begin to master group work, for example, moving in a circle or working with partners. Musicality and rhythm are taught through clapping, singing and improvising to music. Creative imagery, mime and props are used to help the children respond to music. Basic movement themes such as; jumping, balletic walks/runs, spinning and skipping are explored as an introduction to classical ballet.

Ballet Level I – Must be ages 4-6, Beginner Level. Progressing from Creative Movement, children now learn to work in lines and on the diagonal. Basic movement themes such as; jumping, balletic walks/runs, spinning and skipping are explored as an introduction to classical ballet. Students continue to work with partners to facilitate a sense of teamwork. Barre and center work is introduced, as ballet technique is given emphasis in this class.

Ballet Level 2 – Must be ages 6+ with 1-3 years experience – Beginner Level. Level 2 introduces students to the foundations of barre work in order to develop proper alignment and classical technique. Students continue to work on traveling steps with an introduction to grand allegro. At this level an emphasis is placed on turning, jumping, and linking steps. Introductory character work and free movement study provide students with an avenue for self-expression and performance style. Students are expected to show awareness of basic technique, appropriate timing and musicality.

Ballet Level 3 – Must be ages 10+ with 3-4 years experience – Beginner/Intermediate Level. Level 3 students are given similar structure to Level 2 students with an increased expectation of proper technique and musicality. Students will focus on building the strength, flexibility and control needed to execute ballet moves. Each class will emphasize barre exercises and will also include a challenging combinations of center floor work and across-the-floor combinations.

Ballet Level 4 – Must be ages 10+ with 5-7 years experience – Advanced Level. Students at this level are given extended barre exercises with increasing demi pointe work, stretching and strengthening. Classical ballet lines should be established along with a new vocabulary for traveling steps, elevation and pirouettes. The lyrical use of arms and upper back builds on the free movement established in the previous level. Character steps now include those from the Russian Peasant style as seen in many classical ballets. Students at this level have a strong understanding of classical vocabulary and can now adequately demonstrate use of line and musical performance.

Ballet Level 5 – Must be ages 12+ (teens) with 5-7 years experience – Advanced Level. Level 5 reinforces students to the foundations of barre work in order to develop proper alignment and classical technique. Class Prerequisite – Students must be able to pass an examination showing thorough knowledge and understanding of all positions, arabesque and apaulement placement. Students must have mastered pirouette preparation and execution, as well as mastering the understanding of a la seconde turns and are currently working on mastering the execution. Students in this level show no signs of incorrect technique such as sickling, hip raising and are able to control their body, core and limbs.

Class work continues to improve the dancer’s spacial awareness and orientation of the body. Dancers continue to work on coordination of the whole body with the addition of fluidity of movement. Added steps include multiple pirouettes, turns in a la seconde and beating jumps and partnering. This class is also a prerequisite for the dancer who has a serious interest about studying pointe in the near future. (Discussions regarding starting pointe work must be held with the Director. In order to graduate to pointe work, an examination must be passed to ensure the safety and well-being of the dancer.) This class allows the dancer the ability to fully warmup the legs and body to prepare for pointe class.

*Material is taught quickly in this level and students are expected to pick up the material being taught at a fast rate.

Pre-Pointe – You must gain the Director’s permission to take this class. This intense class is for advanced ballet students who have a strong interest and desire to study pointe, but need to further develop and strengthen the muscles and technique necessary to go en pointe. This class also allows the instructor to assess readiness for the demands of pointe, offering an atmosphere for a proper evaluation of important skills necessary to pass in order to study en pointe. Due to the demands that pointe work places on the body, students must have the necessary strength in their core, legs, ankles and feet, as well as meeting the necessary class requirements and passing a studio evaluation to be considered for this advanced class. In certain circumstances, a doctor examination of the feet may be needed to ensure proper growth plate development. Note: Taking this class does not mean you are ready or will be passed to dance en pointe. FSD is most concerned with making sure that the dancer’s feet are done growing, growth plates are closed and technique is strong and consistent – safety of the dancer is first and foremost.

A student enrolled in this class will be tested at any point for pointe work. If a student passes their evaluation, they will continue in this class training wearing pointe shoes. This class will not perform in the annual recital. Students enrolled in this class must take a ballet class, as well as at least one (1) other ballet technique classes.

Pointe, Level 1 and 2 (Level 2 – continues technique based in level 1, but continues with more advanced skills focused more heavily in the center) – Also known as pointe work, is when the dancer supports all body weight on the tips of fully extended feet using a pointe shoe, a special dance shoe that consists of a hardened box and a stiff-shanked shoe. Beginner pointe students begin at the barre, learning proper foot placement and becoming confident in shoes with exercises in releve, sauté and echappe. Students with increased pointe experience (Level 2), learn center combinations and turns, such as chaine, pirouette and fouette are introduced. Due to the demands that pointe work places on the body, students must have the necessary strength in their core, legs, ankles and feet, as well as meeting the necessary class requirements and passing a studio evaluation to be considered for this advanced class. In certain circumstances, a doctor examination of the feet may be needed to ensure proper growth plate development. Students are required to take Ballet Level 5 and at least one (1) additional Ballet Technique or Ballet Turns and Leaps class during the week.

What are Ballet Technique Classes? Want more time in the studio to perfect that soutenu? Take this non-performing class each week and see the increased results before your eyes. Your instructor will work with you on perfecting your technique, so whether you want to perform stronger in your ballet class or jazz class or get higher marks at your competition…this class is for you. Why should you add more ballet to your week?

  1. Footwork gains precision and speed
  2. Muscles become more pliable and warm
  3. More ballet helps body prepare for more jumps and leaps
  4. Flexibility and strength in the dancer will increase
  5. Ballet improves a dancer’s balance and MUCH more

Ballet Technique Class Levels 4/5 Intermediate/Advanced, must have at least 2+ solid years recent ballet experience. Students will focus on building the strength, flexibility and control needed to execute ballet skills. Each class will emphasize barre exercises and will include a combination of center floor work and across-the-floor combinations focusing on ballet (turned out from the hip) turns and leaps. Material is taught quickly and students are expected to quick up with the quick pace of the class.  This class is not for the beginner level student.

This level is designed to give the necessary training to students wishing to study ballet seriously, encouraging the technical requirements along with establishing artistry, musicality and feeling. New steps are introduced to further establish the dancer’s repertoire of skills , while the precision and line of the dancer is improved. Correct technique, posture and strength are required of the dancer for pirouettes and grand allegro for Ballet Technique class.

 


What is Contemporary? Using music to translate emotion into movement, contemporary is very fluid and utilizes aspects of ballet and jazz dance. Dancers are challenged to find meaning behind the music and connect that to the choreography. Dancers are taught to use smooth transitions between movements and incorporate breath into their dance. Classes include character development through discussion and examples in both dance and student experience. Contemporary is suggested for ages 6+ who have previous ballet experience, as it focuses on emotional strength and older emotional themes. Students are asked to draw upon their own experience to relate to the music and choreography and use the encounter to grow as a dancer and as a person. Intermediate through Advanced levels are available. Students must have a strong background in ballet to advance into contemporary training.

*Please be advised: If a student has not fulfilled the required years or level of experience, it is suggested they take the lower level class to ensure they learn the prerequisite material and skills.

Contemporary Level 1 – Ages 6+ Beginner Level. Preferred to have 1- 2 years ballet experience. This fun and informative class is for students who hold a basic understanding in ballet and would like to develop their skills; building confidence, improving technique and increasing dance vocabulary. Students are taught how to relay story and emotion into their dancing. These classes are NOT for complete beginners.

Contemporary Level 2 – Must be ages 8+ with 1-3 years experience – Beginner/Intermediate.  This class is designed to expand a student’s knowledge and performance skills. You will work further on technique and learning the dynamics of movement phrasing. These classes are also suitable for older students with experience who are returning to dance.

Contemporary Level 3 – Must be ages 10+ with 3+ years experience – Advanced Level. Fast paced, challenging classes for advanced students competent in contemporary or ballet. Dancers will work to develop artistic expression, presence and understand intention.

Contemporary Level 4/5 – Must be ages 12+ with 5+ years experience – Advanced Level. This class is for the older teenager who enjoys a challenging class with emphasis on music complexity, dynamic movement, performance and emotional connection while being able to carry more mature themes in their dancing.


What is Jazz? A stylized technique based class that emphasizes long lines and musicality. As an ever changing art form, jazz encompasses many forms of technique from contemporary to musical theater. Class focuses on flexibility, strength, turns and leaps and jazz choreography. Jazz is specifically used to teach personal expression and help dancers find their personal style and voice, as well as body control and awareness. These topics relate to body and choreography and use the encounter to grow as a dancer and as a person. Each level will focus on learning proper dance technique such as isolations of the body, improving performance quality and developing complex rhythms and patterns. Students will be exposed to various styles of jazz such as Broadway, Street and Contemporary to help develop a well rounded dancer. Class curriculum is based on ballet technique layered with traditional jazz movement and includes a proper warm-up, stretches, isolations, across-the-floor progressions, and combinations. As students progress through each level of 1-4, the curriculum will become increasingly more complex and intricate. Beginner through advanced levels.

*Please be advised: If a student has not fulfilled the required years or level of experience, it is suggested they take the lower level class to ensure they learn the prerequisite material and skills.

Jazz Level 1 – Must be ages 6+, Beginner Level.

Jazz Level 2 – Must be ages 8+ with 1-3 years experience. Intermediate Level.

Jazz Level 3 – Must be ages 10+ with 3-5 years experience. Advanced Level.

Jazz Level 4/5 – Must be ages 12+ with 5+ years. Advanced Level. Designed for the teenager with the necessary jazz experience to be able to carry more mature themes in their dancing.

Jazz Turns, Leaps & Tricks – Beginner/Intermediate & Advanced Levels. Designed for the motivated and dedicated dancer to improve, practice and maintain technique. This class will review basics but will advance quickly. It is strongly recommended to also take the Stretch/Conditioning class. A non performing technique class for the dedicated dancer who averages 3+ hours of taking class in the studio per week. The entire class time will be devoted to perfecting the art of the successful turns, leaps and tricks. Dancers will learn how to better control their bodies, while also learning various advanced leap patterns, as well as turn combinations. Students will be given ample time to perfect their skills. A breakdown of each skill will be taught by the instructor. Students will also be given combinations of skills to travel across center. It is recommended that all intermediate and advanced ballet, contemporary and jazz students add this to their weekly classes. This class is not for the beginner level student, as the class material is more difficult and the class pace is quick. 

Stretch and Conditioning – Beginner/Intermediate & Advanced Levels. – Students must bring to class: Yoga Mat, Yoga Blocks, 1 lb. Ankle Weights and Water. This non-performing class for all ages that is designed to improve a dancer’s range of motion, enhance muscle flexibility and increase their level of core muscle strength. Designed for the motivated and dedicated dancer to increase flexibility and full body strength. Dancers are taught basic anatomy as well as proper form. This is a high energy, fast paced class. Through a variety of stretches and strengthening exercises, dancers will also increase their awareness of their own body’s potential as it connects to expression through movement. This class is not meant to replace at home training, but to enhance it. This class will focus on correcting muscle imbalances and the correct the following:

  1. Your hip’s external rotators are extremely tight from being turned out all day, and so you lack a significant amount of internal rotation (which is important too).
  2. Your quads and hip flexors are chronically tight from continuous over use.
  3. Your ankles lack the ability to dorsiflex, and the posterior calf muscles become tight from being on your toes so often.
  4. There is generally a huge discrepancy from the right side of the body to the left. Think about it, we practice things way more on the right side, and some choreography is never reversed.
  5. The instructor will also work on improving leg and core strength, and improving your dance technique.

What is Tap? Tap classes are designed to develop rhythm, style and sound. Students will learn a variety of tap styles from Broadway to Rhythm tap. Exercises focus on building flexibility of the knee and ankles, coordination, and speed of movement. The class emphasis is on developing proper tap technique, producing clear tap sounds, and having fun. As students progress through each level of 1-5, the curriculum will become increasingly more complex and intricate. Includes beginner through advanced level classes.

*Please be advised: If a student has not fulfilled the required years or level of experience, it is suggested they take the lower level class to ensure they learn the prerequisite material and skills.

Tap Level 1 – Ages 4-6 – Beginner Level.

Tap Level 2 – Must be ages 6+ with 1-3 years experience. Beginner/Intermediate Level.

Tap Level 3 – Must be ages 9+ with 3-4 years experience. Intermediate Level.

Tap Level 4 – Must be ages 11+ with 5-7 years experience. Intermediate/Advanced Level. Students in this level are strong tappers. Students will be re-taught basics of pullbacks, wings, and other key steps and given time in class to work in these difficult skills in order to complete mastery. Material is taught quickly in this class and students are expected to pick up the material being taught at a fast rate.

Tap Level 5 – Must be 12+ (teens) with 5-7 years of correct and solid technique. Advanced Level. Students in this level are expected to have mastered single/double pullbacks, wings, single foot flaps, single foot pullbacks, turning combinations combining key skills such as multi-sounding riffs and pullbacks, as well as mastering various rhythmic and tempo variations. Class material will progress beyond the above skills mentioned, so it is critical that they are ready for such advanced work. Material is taught quickly in this class and students are expected to pick up material being taught at a fast rate.


What is Hip Hop? This class is high-energy and fun for both guys and girls who want to learn some “Old School” style influenced by some of today’s hottest choreographers. Classes include conditioning and warm-up, simplified break down of each dance step, skill combinations and choreography.   Movements and music are age-appropriate. Beginner through advanced levels are available.

*Please be advised: If a student has not fulfilled the required years or level of experience, it is suggested they take the lower level class to ensure they learn the prerequisite material and skills.

Hip Hop Level 1 – Ages 4+ – Beginner Level, Students will learn to understand and apply knowledge of hip-hop fundamentals. There is emphasis on rhythm and proper technique all while maintaining a fun and high energy class.

Hip Hop Level 2 – Must be ages 8+ with 1-3 years experience – Beginner/Intermediate Level. Upon completion of Intro to hip hop technique, there will be concentration developing proper dance alignments, memorization, rhythm, flexibility, strength and an array of techniques to prep for a functioning classroom environment and dancing at higher levels.

Hip Hop Level 3 – Must be ages 10+ with 3-5 years experience – Intermediate Level. Concentration on learning through movement, choreography and grooves will be a must in this class. Students will learn to keep themselves in shape through core workouts and conditioning exercises. Choreography will be super fun designed to improve flexibility, rhythm and extension while maintaining proper technique and timing.

Hip Hop Level 4/5 – Must be ages 12+ with 5+ years experience –  Advanced Level. This class is designed for the high energy, intense, and seasoned dancer older dancer. Syllabus for this level includes choreography and dance moves from the industry’s biggest performers and coaches!


What is Acrobatics?  Acro (acrobatics/tumbling) is centered on fundamental acrobatic technique to increase flexibility, strength, balance, coordination, endurance, timing, body awareness, self-discipline, and confidence. Classes focus on proper hand placement and body alignment with emphasis on the muscles and flexibility required to perform proper technique.

*Please be advised: If a student has not fulfilled the required years or level of experience, it is suggested they take the lower level class to ensure they learn the prerequisite material and skills.

Creative Tumble Tots – (Ages 3-5) This 30 minute class offers young children an introduction to the fundamentals of tumbling and dance that will provide the building blocks necessary for their potential development in dance and overall fitness. By learning the benefits of flexibility, balance, strength, and body control inherent in all aspects of tumbling, your child will be better equipped to safely enjoy and excel in all of their future athletic endeavors.

Acrobatics Level 1 – Must be ages 5+, Beginner Level. Introductory level class that will build acro skills and knowledge of the basics. Students will learn skills including a baby bridge, forward pike roll, pre-cartwheel, somersault, straddle and tuck jumps, right & left cartwheels, handstand, elbow handstand, bridge kick-over, bridge straight legs feet together, backbend from standing up, round off, backbend stand up.

Acrobatics Level 2 – Intermediate Level. The next progression of acro focuses on backbend kickover, chest stand, handstand tuck and roll, handstand to backbend, forearm stand, fishflop, front walk over, back walkover, switch leg back walkover, switch leg front walkover, one-handed back walkover, one-handed front walkover, front hand spring, side aerials (introduction), Arabian limber, headstand variations, standing back handspring (with spot), some partner or group acro stunts and more. Class Prerequisites – Students must have mastered bridge, handstand and cartwheel without spotting assistance. 

Mommy and Me (ages 18 months – 3 years)

Introduce your child to the magical world of movement and music!

Our Mommy And Me dance class is designed to help your child develop social, motor, and cognitive skills throughout their toddler years.

This class is available to children ages 18 months to 3 years and their caregiver. Moms, dads, grandparents, aunts, uncles, family friends, and more – if you and your child want to experience the joy of dancing, our Mommy & Me class is the choice for you!

This class provides a lively introduction to rhythm, musicality and movement. Engaging and creative methods are used to encourage our young dancers to discover the joy of ballet, jazz, and creative movement. A parent or trusted guardian is asked stay in the classroom for the duration of the class and participate with the student.

Adult Dance Classes – Our adult classes are a fun and light-hearted for both the inexperienced and experienced dancer. Although strong technique will be taught, the environment is casual and made to make everyone feel welcome. Do something for you…Challenge yourself and your body and mind will thank you. Comfortable clothing can be worn. Check the schedule to see what genres are offered.

Each adult session is 6 weeks –  The session fee is $75.00 and this includes 2 classes to attend each week. We realize adults have busy schedules and may not be able to make every class. We welcome and encourage adults to try to attend both classes during the six week session to get the most out of the dance studio experience, get a good workout, have more opportunity to master dance skills and have so much fun with other adults.

Tuesday – 7:30-8:15p “Flex, Stretch & Relax”
(9/13/22 – 10/18/22)
Geared for improving flexibility and strength for all muscle groups through various techniques, as well as enhancing range of motion. The class ends with deep stretching and relaxation movements through basic yoga-like techniques.
*all ages, all levels welcome
*dress code – comfortable, moveable clothing. Barefoot, socks or dance shoes

Wednesday – 7:15-8:00p (Dance technique based class)

(9/14/22 – 10/19/22)
Each session will be focused on a specific style of dance giving adults the opportunity to explore different styles of dance in each session. The first session (9/14-10/19) will be jazz. We will certainly take requests for the next style from returning adults for the second session and on-going.
*all ages, all levels welcome
*dress code – comfortable, moveable clothing. For “jazz” session – tennis shoes or jazz shoes

Not sure what level you should register for?  Email us at fusionstudioofdance.com.  We are here for you!