Curriculum

Curriculum lies at the heart of what sets us apart at 417 Dance, defining our unique approach to dance education. We recognize the profound impact of dance on the development of every student we serve. Through our carefully structured curriculum, we provide a comprehensive learning experience aimed at nurturing each dancer's growth, both artistically and personally. To ensure our students are absorbing the knowledge imparted in class, we employ a combination of written and verbal assessments, enabling us to track their progress and tailor our instruction to their individual needs effectively.

Class offerings and levels may be adjusted based on enrollment numbers and class sizes.

Please consult our current schedule for the latest class options

If age is not specified, an evaluation is necessary for enrollment.

Baby Ballerinas (Ages 18 months - 3.5):

Introduction to basic movement concepts such as walking, jumping, skipping, and hopping.
Exploration of spatial awareness, body coordination, and balance through creative movement activities.
Encouragement of parent-child interaction through mirroring exercises, partner activities, and group games.
Introduction to basic dance movements, including locomotor skills, coordination exercises, and creative movement exploration.
Focus on developing rhythm, musicality, and expression through movement.

Twinkle Toes (Ages 4.5-7):

Expansion of dance vocabulary with additional steps and techniques in ballet and tap.
Introduction to basic dance terminology, positions, and concepts in each dance style.
Focus on developing foundational skills such as posture, alignment, and coordination.
Integration of ballet and tap techniques into a single class format.
Focused instruction on technique, vocabulary, and choreography in each style.
Exploration of musicality, rhythm, and expression in dance combinations and exercises.

Pre Pointe:

Focus on proper alignment, turnout, and placement
Development of core stability and lower body strength
Exercises to build intrinsic foot muscles
Ankle strengthening exercises to support the foot in relevé
Theraband exercises to improve foot articulation and control

Education on the structure and function of the foot and ankle
Awareness of common foot and ankle injuries in dancers
Strategies for injury prevention and self-care
Emphasis on correct alignment of the foot, ankle, and leg
Training in safe and effective execution of relevé and demi-pointe work
Importance of gradual progression and avoiding overuse injuries

Pre-Ballet (Ages 5-8):

Introduction to basic ballet vocabulary and terminology.
Focus on developing coordination, musicality, and spatial awareness through creative movement and storytelling.
Emphasis on proper posture, alignment, and body awareness.
Introduction to ballet etiquette and class structure.

Ballet 1:

Continuation of basic ballet vocabulary with added complexity.
Development of foundational ballet techniques including turnout, tendu, plié, and relevé.
Introduction to elementary barre and center exercises.
Exploration of musicality, rhythm, and expression through movement.

Ballet 2:

Progression to more advanced ballet vocabulary and combinations.
Refinement of technique with focus on turnout, épaulement, port de bras, and épaulement.
Expansion of vocabulary of jumps, turns, and allegro combinations.
Introduction to classical variations and repertoire.

Ballet 3:

Mastery of advanced ballet technique including pirouettes, adagio, petit allegro, and grand allegro.
Development of strength, flexibility, and control through intensive training.
Study of classical ballet variations from the traditional repertoire.
Exploration of artistry, interpretation, and character portrayal in ballet performance.

Pointe Work (By Teacher Invitation):

Preparation for pointe work including strength training, ankle stability, and foot articulation.
Introduction to pointe shoes and proper fitting.
Gradual progression to pointe work under the supervision of a qualified instructor.

Ballet Variations/YAGP Prep:

Selection of classical variations suited to the dancer's strengths, abilities, and artistic qualities
Exploration of variations from the classical ballet repertoire, including works by Petipa, Bournonville, Balanchine, and contemporary choreographers
Character development and storytelling through movement
Interpretation of character roles and emotions within the context of the variation
Exploration of musicality, phrasing, and dynamics to enhance artistic expression

Hip Hop 1

Overview of hip-hop culture and its elements.
Introduction to basic hip-hop dance moves such as the bounce, two-step, and body isolations.
Understanding rhythm and musicality in hip-hop music.
Practice sessions focusing on foundational movements and coordination exercises.

Hip Hop 2:

Refinement of basic hip-hop dance moves and terminology.
Introduction to more advanced movements including popping, locking, and footwork.
Development of strength, flexibility, and endurance through conditioning exercises.
Incorporation of musicality and dynamics into dance sequences.

Hip Hop 3:

Introduction to different styles of hip hop dance such as breaking, house, and krumping.
Exploration of the history and cultural context of each style.
Choreography workshops focusing on specific styles and movement vocabularies.
Emphasis on personal expression and storytelling through dance.
Mastery of advanced hip-hop dance techniques including intricate footwork, freezes, and transitions.
Development of freestyle skills and improvisation abilities.
Collaboration on group choreography projects with a focus on stage presence and performance quality.
Preparation for public performances or showcases to demonstrate proficiency in hip-hop dance.

Contemporary 1

Overview of contemporary dance as a form of expressive movement.
Exploration of basic movement principles such as contraction, release, and flow.
Introduction to fundamental modern dance techniques including alignment, balance, and spatial awareness.
Development of body awareness and connectivity through improvisational exercises and guided movement exploration.
Contemporary 2
Refinement of basic contemporary dance techniques and vocabulary.
Focus on breath, weight, and momentum in movement.
Exploration of various movement qualities such as sustained, percussive, and swinging.
Development of strength, flexibility, and coordination through structured exercises and movement sequences.

Lyrical 1 (Ages 7+):

Introduction to basic lyrical technique, including fluid movement, extensions, and lyrical lines.
Exploration of emotional expression and storytelling through movement.
Focus on transitions, musicality, and phrasing in lyrical choreography.
Incorporation of ballet and jazz fundamentals to develop technical proficiency and artistry.

Lyrical 2:

Development of lyrical technique with focus on control, balance, and extension.
Study of dynamic contrast, texture, and nuance in lyrical movement.
Introduction to improvisation and freestyle exercises to foster creativity and personal expression.
Exploration of partnering and group dynamics in lyrical choreography.

Lyrical 3:

Refinement of lyrical technique with emphasis on musicality, interpretation, and emotion.
Study of different styles and approaches to lyrical dance, including contemporary lyrical, modern lyrical, and narrative lyrical.
Integration of floorwork, lifts, and transitions to enhance fluidity and continuity in lyrical choreography.
Mastery of advanced lyrical technique, including intricate movement patterns, suspensions, and releases.
Study of complex musical structures and phrasing in lyrical choreography.
Development of performance skills, stage presence, and emotional connection in lyrical performance.
Exploration of choreographic composition and storytelling techniques in original lyrical works.

Jazz 1 (Ages 7+):

Introduction to basic jazz technique, including isolations, contractions, and stylized walks.
Focus on rhythm, musicality, and coordination through simple jazz combinations and exercises.
Exploration of different jazz styles, including Broadway jazz, contemporary jazz, and commercial jazz.
Incorporation of fun and age-appropriate choreography to popular music.

Jazz 2:

Expansion of jazz vocabulary with more complex movements and combinations.
Development of strength, flexibility, and agility through jazz warm-ups and exercises.
Introduction to syncopated rhythms, accents, and dynamics in jazz movement.
Exploration of improvisation and creative movement within structured exercises.

Jazz 3:

Refinement of jazz technique with focus on precision, articulation, and style.
Study of classic jazz steps and stylizations, including pas de bourrée, jazz walks, and jazz pirouettes.
Incorporation of across-the-floor progressions, turns, leaps, and floorwork in jazz combinations.
Introduction to musicality and phrasing in jazz choreography, emphasizing storytelling and emotional expression.
Mastery of advanced jazz technique, including intricate footwork, isolations, and directional changes.
Exploration of complex rhythms, syncopations, and musicality in jazz movement.
Study of contemporary trends and innovations in jazz dance, including fusion styles and experimental choreography.
Development of performance skills, stage presence, and dynamic expression in jazz performance.

Tap 1:

Introduction to basic tap technique, including shuffles, brushes, flaps, and toe taps.
Development of proper tap posture, foot placement, and weight distribution.
Emphasis on rhythm, timing, and musicality through simple tap exercises and combinations.
Exploration of different sounds and dynamics produced by the tap shoes.
Expansion of tap vocabulary with more complex steps and combinations.
Focus on clean execution, clarity of sound, and precision in tap technique.
Introduction to syncopated rhythms, syncopated steps, and double-time steps.
Incorporation of basic improvisation and call-and-response exercises to develop rhythmic creativity.

Tap 2:

Refinement of tap technique with emphasis on speed, articulation, and musicality.
Study of advanced tap steps and variations, including pullbacks, time steps, and wings.
Introduction to intricate rhythmic patterns, syncopations, and polyrhythms in tap combinations.
Exploration of improvisation and rhythmic exploration within structured exercises and choreography.
Mastery of advanced tap technique, including fast footwork, intricate rhythms, and complex combinations.
Study of different tap styles and traditions, including Broadway tap, rhythm tap, and hoofing.
Integration of dynamics, phrasing, and musical interpretation in tap performance.
Exploration of improvisation, syncopation, and musical collaboration in tap choreography and ensemble work.

Musical Theater 1:

Introduction to basic musical theater concepts, including storytelling, character development, and stage presence.
Exploration of rhythm, melody, and vocal expression through group singing activities and vocal exercises.
Introduction to basic movement and dance techniques, including coordination, rhythm, and spatial awareness.
Development of singing skills, including breath support, pitch accuracy, and vocal projection.
Introduction to basic acting techniques, including characterization, emotion, and stage movement.
Exploration of musical theater repertoire, including classic musical numbers and scenes from popular musicals.

Musical Theater 2:

Refinement of singing technique with focus on tone quality, dynamics, and expression.
Study of acting techniques, including script analysis, scene study, and character development.
Integration of singing and acting skills in solo and ensemble musical theater performances.
Mastery of advanced singing techniques, including vocal range, control, and interpretation.
Study of advanced acting techniques, including stage presence, emotional depth, and storytelling.
Integration of singing, acting, and dancing in musical theater performance pieces, including full-length musical numbers and scenes.

Ballroom 1:

Introduction to basic ballroom dance styles, including Waltz, Foxtrot, and Swing.
Focus on fundamental dance techniques such as posture, frame, footwork, and connection.
Development of partnering skills, including leading and following, communication, and cooperation.
Expansion of ballroom dance vocabulary with additional styles such as Tango, Cha-Cha, and Rumba.
Refinement of basic dance techniques, including timing, rhythm, and styling specific to each dance style.
Introduction to basic choreographic elements and patterns for social dancing and performance.

Ballroom 2:

Mastery of intermediate-level ballroom dance techniques, including more complex patterns, footwork variations, and styling.
Study of advanced partnering techniques, including turns, spins, dips, and lifts (where appropriate).
Exploration of musical interpretation, expression, and performance skills in ballroom dance routines.
Mastery of advanced ballroom dance techniques, including intricate footwork, syncopations, and embellishments.
Study of competitive ballroom dance styles such as Viennese Waltz, Quickstep, Paso Doble, and Samba.
Integration of performance elements such as showmanship, storytelling, and audience engagement in advanced ballroom dance routines.
Training for students interested in competitive ballroom dance, including preparation for competitions, adjudication, and performance under pressure.
Study of competition rules, scoring criteria, and strategies for success in competitive ballroom dance events.

Pom 1:

Expansion of pom dance vocabulary with additional arm movements jumps, and kicks.
Refinement of technique, including arm placement, coordination, and timing.
Introduction to basic choreography concepts such as counts, formations, and spacing.
Mastery of intermediate-level pom dance techniques, including more complex arm combinations, turns and jumps.
Study of advanced formations, transitions, and staging techniques for dynamic visual impact.
Integration of musicality, rhythm, and expression in pom dance routines.

Pom 2:

Mastery of advanced pom dance techniques, including intricate arm work, visual formations, and aerial elements.
Study of advanced jumps turns, and leaps specific to pom dance style.
Exploration of thematic development, storytelling, and character portrayal in pom dance routines.

Silver Sneakers Dance Class:

The goal of this curriculum is to provide a fun and engaging dance experience tailored to the needs and abilities of senior citizens, promoting physical activity, social interaction, and overall well-being.
Gentle joint rotations (neck, shoulders, wrists, hips, ankles)
Deep breathing exercises
Light stretching to increase flexibility
Introduction to simple dance steps such as side steps, grapevines, and toe taps
Practice maintaining balance and coordination while moving
Incorporating strength-building exercises into dance movements
Practice balancing techniques to improve stability

Empowerment Dance Class:

Focuses on empowering individuals with special needs through dance, fostering confidence and self-expression.

Exploring different body parts through movement games and exercises
Introduction to spatial awareness and basic dance positions
Clapping games and rhythmic exercises to develop coordination and timing
Introduction to basic rhythmic patterns through music
Dance exercises focusing on coordination and motor skills development
Partner or group activities to practice mirroring and following movement cues

Introduction to Tumbling (Ages 5-7):

Introduction to basic tumbling skills, including forward rolls, backward rolls, and cartwheels.
Focus on developing body awareness, coordination, and spatial orientation.
Emphasis on safety and proper technique, including body positioning and spotting techniques.

Tumbling 1:

Expansion of tumbling vocabulary with skills such as handstands, bridge kickovers, and back walkovers.
Introduction to basic tumbling progressions and drills to build strength, flexibility, and confidence.
Development of proper body alignment, core stability, and balance in tumbling skills.

Tumbling 2:

Refinement of basic tumbling skills with a focus on technique, execution, and control.
Study of intermediate tumbling skills such as front walkovers, back handsprings, and round-offs.
Introduction to tumbling combinations and sequences, incorporating multiple skills in succession.
Emphasis on conditioning exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and agility for tumbling.

Tumbling 3:

Mastery of advanced tumbling skills including aerials, back tucks, front tucks, and layouts.
Study of advanced tumbling passes and combinations, integrating flips, twists, and rotations.
Development of air awareness, timing, and spatial orientation in advanced tumbling skills.
Exploration of tumbling variations and progressions, including drills for spotting and progression to higher-level skills.