What You Should Consider When Choosing a Dance Studio

Inquire  about the artistic director's vision. What are the principles behind  the teaching methods employed in the studio? What are the goals of the  studio? 

At Albemarle Academy of Dance (AAD), .our approach to dance education is about more than just movements and routines; it’s about shaping confident, disciplined, and well-rounded individuals. Whether your child dreams of a career in dance or simply seeks to enjoy the physical and mental benefits of this beautiful art form, AAD is dedicated to guiding them every step of the way. 

Proper technique is the cornerstone of safe and effective dance practice. It helps in preventing injuries, allowing students to enjoy dance as a lifelong activity. By focusing on the correct alignment, posture, and movement execution, we ensure that our students develop physically strong and resilient bodies. This attention to detail in technique extends beyond the dance studio, offering benefits in all areas of physical activity. We believe that learning proper technique is essential, not only for those who aspire to become dancers but for all students to ensure their safety, build strength, and foster overall physical health. 

Moreover, at AAD, we are passionate about exposing our students to the rich world of the arts. This exposure nurtures creativity, broadens perspectives, and enriches the mind. It is not just about learning dance steps but about embracing art as a vital part of life. 

Self-discipline, a value deeply ingrained in our teachings, is a natural outcome of this process. As our students strive to master techniques and embrace the discipline of dance, they cultivate a sense of self-discipline that transcends the studio. This discipline is an invaluable asset in all areas of life, from academics to personal relationships.

At AAD, we create a warm and welcoming environment where each student is encouraged to explore their potential.Join us and experience the joy and richness that a comprehensive dance education can bring to your child’s life.

At Albemarle Academy of Dance, we understand that each student's journey in dance is unique, especially in terms of skill and experience. While younger students are often grouped by age, for school-aged children, placement in classes is a thoughtful balance of both age and ability. This approach ensures that every student is in a learning environment that matches their individual skill level.

Grouping school-aged students solely based on age can lead to classes with varying skill levels. This scenario can challenge teachers who must cater to beginners, intermediates, or advanced students within the same class. As a result, some students might not receive the attention or challenge they need.

To address this, AAD offers a diverse range of classes, ensuring a suitable fit for each student's needs and abilities. Our dedicated instructors closely monitor students' progress and are proactive in communicating with parents about any recommended class changes. This personalized attention ensures that every student at AAD receives the right level of challenge and support, fostering their growth and love for dance.

Albemarle Academy of Dance (AAD) boasts a legacy of success, with our alumni excelling in diverse spheres of the dance world. Our comprehensive dance education program has a proven track record of nurturing talents who pursue illustrious careers in various disciplines of dance.

Our alumni have made significant strides in the realm of performing arts. Many have embarked on professional careers in performing, teaching, and choreographing, showcasing the versatility and depth of our training. The accomplishments of our graduates are a testament to the quality of education at AAD. They are not only pursuing their passions but also shaping the future of dance.

AAD takes immense pride in our students' achievements. Many have been accepted and awarded scholarships to the nation's most prestigious dance institutions, including the North Carolina School of the Arts, New York University, Pace University, SUNY Purchase, American Ballet Theatre, Miami City Ballet, Boston Ballet, BalletMet, University of Arizona, , CalArts, VCU,  and Yale University. Their global reach extends to renowned schools like The School in London and the American Dance Festival at Duke University, 

Moreover, our skilled instructors have guided students to impressive heights. We have students performing on Broadway, with prestigious ballet companies, on cruise ships, and teaching at esteemed dance schools. These achievements underscore the excellence and breadth of the education we provide at AAD, preparing our students not just for a career in dance but for a lifetime of artistic achievement and leadership in the arts.

Your  class should be disciplined, encouraging, and nurturing. Just as all performing arts schools are not alike, neither are all performing arts  instructors. Your choice of instructor is crucial to your child's future success as a dancer or performer. Bad habits learned at a young age are  extremely hard to break. Make a point to check the instructor’s qualifications. Make sure he or she holds a diploma or degree in their  area of instruction, and is certified to teach in their area of  instruction. Performance with an acclaimed professional company is of great benefit to an instructor. 

Ask yourself the following questions:

Does the teacher….

• Have a certification or degree in dance/performance, or have professional experience?
• Have a working knowledge of anatomy? Many chronic injuries are traced to  poor movement habits learned in early years of training.
• Encourage the love and joy of dancing in each child and show an interest in each child’s growth and development?
• Seem aware of the physical and mental capabilities of the particular age group being taught?
• Maintain an atmosphere comfortable and supportive to all students in the class?
• Begin with a class warm-up and progress from simpler steps to more complicated ones?
• Use imaginative language when giving instructions?
• Include creative work along with formal instruction?
• Include rhythmic training in the lesson?
• Make age appropriate musical selections?
  

Our teachers are all highly trained,  hold degrees/certifications, and have extensive performance experience.  Each instructor strives to achieve all of the above points in our  classes. We are very proud to offer the absolute best instructors around  and we are continually working to improve our abilities, ideas and  communicative skills. Please read through our staff bios on our  website.