Ballet Fundamentals (Ages 5-6)
This class will teach the basics of classical ballet technique, intended for 5 and 6 year olds.
Maxine P
Average rating:
4.8
Number of reviews:(34)
What's included
1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hours per weekClass Experience
In this class, we will focus on the fundamentals of classical ballet technique. The foundations of ballet training will be introduced, including simple steps and vocabulary, in a creative and imaginative way. We will focus on developing correct posture, coordination, etiquette, and rhythm. Terminology and imagery will be introduced simultaneously in order to help students understand. Specific exercises will be demonstrated, or students will be asked to simply follow along with me, with and without music. I will give general corrections throughout, in order to encourage correct technique, and students are welcome to "raise their hand" if they have a specific question for me. The class structure will include a floor warmup, work in the center, and across the floor/room. A ballet game (focusing on musicality, movement qualities, and taking turns) may be included at the end if there is time. Above all, we will practice the art and joy of dance by moving together each week! No previous experience or knowledge is required of learners. This class is open to any young mover and is inclusive of all genders, abilities, and backgrounds. To encourage proper placement and that your learner gets the most out of this class, students are expected to be able to pay attention for the full 55 minutes, without sitting or laying down. Students are also expected to be respectful and good listeners. I will keep their microphones off to avoid background noice, and will ask to unmute them if they have a question about what we are doing. If students are on the younger side or not able to pay attention for this long, I recommend trying my Creative Movement class. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
Learning Goals
Students will learn the fundamentals of ballet technique, including but not limited to the following:
1st and 2nd positions, port de bras, plié, tendu, piqué, relevé, sauté, echappé, coupé, passé, walks, runs, gallops, and leaps.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Parental guidance may be needed. Please make sure students have enough space to move around in as well as a water bottle if they need. I will keep the students on mute to avoid background noise or distraction, but may ask to unmute if they have a question related to class.
Supply List
Waterbottle Ballet shoes and leotard (optional) Enough space to move around in (at least 6 x 6 ft) Pillow or something to jump over for leaps (optional)
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
Hello! My name is Maxine, and I am a professional dancer, dance educator, and choreographer. I love teaching dance to children of all ages, and finding creative methods to learning. I believe in the healing and uplifting power of movement, using dance as a form of communication and connection, and in the necessity of an arts education. I am committed to helping that be a reality for as many students as possible. Throughout my work as an educator, I have come to understand and value using a student-centered approach, improvising if the needs of my students are different than anticipated and respecting their individuality and learning styles.
I have extensive experience in classical ballet, and have trained since age 4. I have also trained thoroughly in contemporary and modern techniques, including Contemporary Ballet, Horton, Limón, Improvisation, and Release Technique, and obtained my BFA degree in Dance from Dominican University of California. I have been teaching for the past five years. I have taught in various studios in the Bay Area and Chicagoland Area, as well as abroad in Mexico and Guatemala. I am also a certified GYROTONIC® instructor, a movement system with similarities to dance, Pilates, gymnastics, and Tai chi, and have taught private sessions for the past three years.
My teaching style is structured, warm, patient, passionate, and focused. I am very excited to be teaching on Outschool, and to be offering virtual classes in this setting. My classes are inclusive, meaning that students of all backgrounds and abilities are welcome.
Aside from dance, I enjoy spending time outside in nature, learning about plants, gardening, editing dance films, reading books, and cooking new things. I also have my TEFL certificate and enjoy helping people learn English, as I am attempting to learn Spanish.
Please feel free to reach out with questions, a different requested time, or if your learner needs any accommodations. I'm happy to work together to find a solution and ensure they get the most out of my classes. I hope to meet and dance with your children very soon!Reviews
Live Group Class
$15
weekly1x per week
55 min
Completed by 51 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 5-6
2-7 learners per class
