This post is a guide about what to expect at each stage of growth through a ballet program. Each school will have it's own requirements, below are my recommendations for the amount of classes to consider at each stage of training.
Creative Dance, Ages 3-5
Training for the youngest dancers is about exploring movement and building a love of ballet. Dancers at this age should focus on one 45-minute class per week for the season. These classes should not focus on formal ballet training but more of movement exploration, following directions, and having fun with constructive exercises.
Beginning Levels, Ages 6-8
Once formal training starts, dancers should spend one to two 1-hour classes a week for the season. This is also a great time to explore dance camps and performances if possible. These intro level years are all about laying a great foundation for solid technique and continuing to develop a love for ballet.
Intermediate Levels, Ages 9-12
The intermediate levels are about building on the solid foundation created and adding to the intensity of training. Dancers at this age should be training about two to four times a week for about 1 ½ hours a class, adding more as the dancer ages. The intermediate levels will focus on building strength, continuing to develop technique, and preparing dancers for pointe classes. There should be ideally two performances (Nutcracker and a Spring Performance), and the commitment level to attend classes and rehearsals will increase. A part from training during the season, dancers should also begin to add summer classes into their routine, especially once they are selected to start pointe training.
Pre-Advanced Levels, Ages 13-16
The Pre-Advanced levels are about developing advanced level technique, stamina, strength, and stage presence. Dancers at this stage should train about four to five times a week for about 1 ½ to 2 hours a class. Pointe work should follow for 45 minutes to an hour after technique class, starting from twice a week up to after every class. Dancers should have at least 2 performance opportunities, and should consider joining any pre-professional company opportunities. Dancers should also consider adding cross-fit classes once or twice a week to their weekly schedule to shore up any flexibility or strength weaknesses. This is a very critical time for dancers to decide on what their level of commitment to training is going to be and to start thinking about dance after high school (not that it has to be decided this early!) The pre-advanced years are about choosing to increase one’s commitment to training, and it’s around this age that dancers may have to start picking between ballet and other activities as the demand on time becomes greater and greater. For those students who are considering ballet beyond high school, they should consider attending a summer intensive program to further their training and development.
Advanced Levels, Ages 17+
The Advanced levels are the last few years’ students have in their pre-professional training, and training during this time is all about polishing and fine tuning their technical skills. Dancers should be taking a between 5-6 classes weekly for about 1 ½ to 2 hours a class, plus the additional pointe class for 45 minutes to an hour 4 times a week. There should be at least 2 performances annually, and any additional performance opportunities dancers can gain that doesn’t disrupt their training. Students will need to start thinking and preparing for their ballet ambitions post high school. For those who are interested in pursuing a career with ballet involved, dancers should be investigating the avenues they’d like to explore. Summer intensives can be a great way to explore potential colleges, companies, and teaching opportunities.
We hope this overview will be a great starting point to understand dance progression. Stay tuned for more detailed posts on each stage of developement.
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