no summer classes at nlda

 The rhythm and movement of tap, created by the metal taps on the heels and toes of a dancer’s shoes, transforms the dancer into a percussive musician. Tap dance emphasizes the flow of movement by teaching the dancer to find rhythms and beats not only in music but in their own bodies. Intermediate/advanced classes further develop skills, focusing on clarity of sounds and increasing speed as well as dynamics and musicality. Our advanced tap dancers are challenged through improvisational exercises, intricate rhythms and footwork. 

Tap classes start at age 3.

 Jazz dance combines techniques of classical ballet and modern dance with the current forms of popular dance. Jazz also has its own movement vocabulary ranging from the isolation of certain body parts to the movement of the entire body with the accents of musical rhythms. Jazz dance can take on many different characteristics and styles, including Street Jazz, Percussive, Broadway, Contemporary and Lyrical. Jazz classes can be patterned in any of these styles or a combination of them. Emphasis is on the importance of energy, rhythmical accuracy, and style. 

Jazz classes start at age 3.

 Hip-hop is a dance style, usually danced to hip-hop music, that evolved from the hip-hop culture. Hip-hop includes various moves such as breaking, popping, locking and krumping, and even house dance. Improvisation and personal interpretation are essential to hip-hop dancing. Often hip hop is referred to as a “street” style of dance based on music videos. It is a less technical and high energy style of dance that is often done in street clothes and sneakers. 

Hip hop classes start at age 6. 

Ballet classes are the foundation for dance training and focus on developing a solid ballet technique. With an emphasis on understanding correct body placement, proper use of turn out, coordination of the upper-body, and use of arms. Classes includes work at the barre to build strength and coordination, center exercises, and across the floor work. Ballet exercises and theory help students use the ballet vocabulary in a simple, practical way that leads to increased technical understanding, healthy physical development, and lifelong enjoyment. *Students with strong ballet technique, sufficient core and ankle strength, and a teacher's recommendation go on to study 'en pointe'. 

Ballet classes start at age 3.