Foundation & Technique
Foundation & Technique (Ages 7-9 years) focuses on the development of our younger dancers and introduces them to the foundation and technical aspects of classical ballet.
BalletCNJ believes in a challenging progression of training that inspires students to reach their true potential and go far beyond. Foundation & Technique, a 12 month program, places students according to their age in order to allow for proper physical development through these crucial young years. While in these levels, students work on building a strong foundation in proper ballet technique, body alignment, musicality, and coordination to carry them through to BalletCNJ's Refinement & Artistry.
Classes Offered
Ballet I-A
7-8 years old
1.5 hours
Classes allow dancers to further develop and utilize their foundational knowledge of classical ballet positions and port de bras, alignment, terminology, and musicality. At this level dancers are ready to begin using the barre and work through a complete beginner ballet class. Classical ballet etiquette and discipline help students focus as they begin to develop muscle groups, turnout, precise footwork, full body coordination, and motivation. Repetition and our structured program will help dancers create the foundation and technique that will help them progress rapidly in the future levels. Ballet I, Jazz I, and Tap I work hand in hand to introduce our young dancers to the art of performance.
Ballet I-B
8-9 years old
1.5 hours
Classes allow dancers to further develop and utilize their foundational knowledge of classical ballet positions and port de bras, terminology, and musicality. At this level, dancers are introduced to using one hand at the barre, to further prepare and aid them during their transition to the next level in our program. This allows dancers to focus on full body coordination as well as introducing epaulement. Classical ballet etiquette and discipline help students focus as they begin to develop muscle groups, turnout, precise footwork, and motivation. Ballet I, Jazz I, and Tap I work hand in hand to introduce our young dancers to the art of performance.
Jazz I
7-9 years old
1 hour
Classes work on teaching proper jazz technique in a non-competition setting. This class is taught by a teacher who has knowledge of professional jazz and Broadway styles. Dancers will learn advanced jazz warm-up, strengthening, stretching, and combination exercises both in center and traveling. High energy choreography and phrases will be put to various rhythms and increase a dancer's strength, coordination, and stamina. Teachers will create a fun, stress relieving environment that will further develop and foster each child’s confidence. Jazz is a beneficial way to expose dancers to other styles and expressions of movement. Ballet, Tap, and Jazz work hand in hand to develop a dancer's confidence and performance quality.
Tap I
7-9 years old
1 hour
Classes work on teaching proper tap technique taught by a teacher who has knowledge of professional tap dancing. Dancers will be introduced to basic tap exercises and terminology executed in various rhythms and time signatures. Learning steps to various rhythms will develop a student’s sense of musicality and aid them in counting music, a substantial tool in a dancer’s training. This class will further develop the child’s balance, coordination, control, and cognitive thinking skills. Teachers will create a fun, stress relieving environment that will further develop and foster each child’s confidence. Tap is a beneficial way to expose dancers to other styles and expressions of movement. Ballet, Tap, and Jazz work hand in hand to develop a dancer's confidence and performance quality.
Ballet I Boys
7-9 years old
1.5 hours
This class is an introduction to young male artists, aspiring to understand the qualities prevalent in a male dancer. Alongside technique, students will focus on developing strong port de bras, strength, and stability in movements and jumps. In addition, they will continue to build their flexibility and coordination to help them build the skills needed to be a male dancer.
We are very excited to offer boys and young men (ages 7-19) scholarships for year round training classes and programs.
Conservatory Programs:
Preparatory Division
Is your student interested in training at a level for a future career as a professional dancer? Our Foundation & Technique students at the ages of 7-9 are eligible to audition for the Preparatory Division.
Acceptance into this program is by invitation or audition only. In order to be accepted into this program, students must show maturity and great aptitude for ballet. Spots are limited and classes are kept small to allow for individualized attention.
For more information click below:
Performances
BalletCNJ offers three Performance opportunities per year
for ALL registered Foundation & Technique students!
- Discover & Develop / Foundation & Technique Showcase
- Winter Performance
- Spring Performance
BalletCNJ performances are a part of the curriculum, as it provides a fun and educational experience for our youngest dancers to build confidence and showcase their hard work and talent
