Primary Ballet

Ages 5-6

In this introductory year focus points include:

1. Students are familiarized with the necessary disciplines and class etiquette.

2. They are introduced to different rhythms and counts of music.

3. Children learn to move and improvise with the 5 basic movement qualities.

4. Emphasis is placed on developing coordination and moving gracefully.

5. Students learn how to use the space and become familiar with basic formations used in ballet.

6. Preparation and development of physical ability starts with stretching and strengthening exercises on the floor, using crea- tivity and imagination.

Children learn how to:

• Engage torso muscles to achieve a nice posture

• Rotate legs from the hip socket

• Straighten and lengthen the leg fully

• Point and articulate the foot

• Relax shoulders and neck

• Balance well and be able to change weight

Simple ballet steps are taught in parallel and open position (half open 1st position). Some of these steps include: Plié, Tendu, Relevé, and Retiré at the barre and in the center. Basic arm positions and port de bras are also introduced.