Recreational Dance Classes
Our Recreational Dance Program includes classes for ages 3-Adult in Pre-Ballet (Ages 3-5), Ballet (Ages 5-Adult), Tap (Ages 5-Adult), Jazz (ages 8-Adult), and Contemporary and Modern Dance (ages 6-Adult). A registration Form is included for all students, new and returning. Payments can be made by mail, in person, or through your personal PayPal account if you have one, or you can go to paypal.me/mendocinoballet to make a payment without having an account. Registration can be made by printing the Registration Form (by right clicking on the page and selecting "open image in new tab"), filling it out, and mailing it to us, or scanning and emailing it to us. We do offer limited partial scholarships. You can call the office for more information and an application form. Please do not apply if you pay for classes or private schools elsewhere.
Questions? Call us at 707-463-2290.
Class Descriptions:
EARLY CHILDHOOD DANCE PROGRAM: PRE-BALLET for Ages 3-5
The basic elements of movement and dance are taught in our Pre-Ballet classes for ages 3-5 as follows: Space and how the student relates to it, the eight basic locomotor movements, musical rhythm, beat and time, opposites and directions, and elementary positions of ballet, which is the foundation of all traditional dance forms. Integrated with these physical concepts are the intellectual concepts of self-awareness, creative expression, and imagination. Students also learn the basic concepts of classroom behavior and manners, which remain the same throughout their dancing years: how to take turns, following instruction, leading the way, waiting patiently, maintaining a positive attitude, and working together with others. Class content is based on appropriate developmental skills for their specific age. Both boys and girls can benefit from this learning experience in a fun and positive environment. Class size is limited to allow for individual attention and space.
BALLET: (Ages 5-Adult)
An increased vocabulary of basic ballet technique and terminology are introduced to the student ages 5-7 along with a continuation of elements from the Pre-Ballet class: the eight locomotor skills, musicality and rhythm, spatial awareness. Flexibility and strength building are also incorporated in the class as well as using imagination and creativity to create movement phrases. Both boys and girls can benefit from this learning experience in a fun and positive environment. Class size is limited to allow for individual attention and space.
As students get older, more technique and an increased vocabulary of terminology are taught along with a continuation of elements from the Basic Ballet class. Flexibility and strength building exercises are also increased in the class as well as introducing more challenging choreography. Musicality is stressed so dancers learn performance skills for the stage. Classics are taught along with original choreography in Classical and Contemporary Ballet.
Classes for teens and adults who have had some ballet training, whether recently or in the past, or are beginners who want to explore the joy of Classical and Contemporary Ballet, this is the class for you!. Technique, terminology and musicality are explored and expanded in this class. The student will have the chance to develop their technique while increasing strength and flexibility. Students are expected to commit to the full session.
CONTEMPORARY/MODERN/JAZZ DANCE (Ages 7-Adult)
Contemporary, Modern, and Jazz Dance classes offer an exciting way to experience the many styles of dance forms in the classroom. With Ballet as the foundation for all dance forms, students will be introduced to the many styles of dance, from classical and contemporary ballet to jazz and modern dance, in a safe and family-friendly environment. Proper technique is emphasized with the benefits of building strength, flexibility, and increasing musicality. A special Intro to Ballet, Contemporary, and Modern Dance introduces students between the ages of 7-10 to these dance forms. We offer age appropriate curriculum in a professional environment where students learn proper technique while having FUN!
TAP: (Ages 5-Adult)
Ballet/Tap and Tap classes are offered for ages 5-Adult. Tap dancing is a fun style of dance that anyone can learn, regardless of previous dance experience. Benefits of tap dance include increasing cardiovascular conditioning, strength, flexibility and coordination. Tap builds strength in the legs and feet in addition to increasing flexibility in the hips, knees and ankles. Cognitive abilities are also enhanced, as tap dancers must develop both mental and muscle memory to become proficient at tapping. Tap dancing also develops a great sense of rhythm and timing with a focus on music awareness while incorporating tap steps and combinations.
