Session Description

First-Second Years Your first two years in the Classical Ballet program will consist of progressively complex courses in both ballet technique and contemporary technique. These courses will emphasize the need for a strong, expressive and technically facile ballet dancer, as well as one who is versatile for today’s demands in the profession. The technique of ballet on pointe will be taught, as will ballet partnering and classical variations. Separate classes for men will be offered to focus on the technical, physical and stylistic requirements of male dancers. As part of your degree, you will take liberal arts courses. You will also take courses on the history and evolution of ballet and dance music, and of dance costuming. Third–Fourth Years In your final years of the Classical Ballet program, you will continue to build on your technique in ballet and contemporary dance, pointe, classical variations and partnering. You will be required to take a course on practical career and business issues. You will continue to learn about the history of dance and be introduced to the various teaching styles and approaches dance instructors employ. Fourth year students will take a pedagogy course in which you will be expected to construct and teach your own exercises to fellow students. You will also be required to choreograph a short work, selecting the dancers and music, scheduling rehearsals and presenting the work in a public performance. Original choreography is featured at the Dance in Freedman program in your senior year. Dance costuming is offered as a senior elective, along with Performance Skills and Current Trends.