Jazz
Jazz dance is an energetic and captivating genre that has significantly evolved since its inception in the early 20th century, rooted in the rhythmic and expressive traditions of African American communities. Jazz dance is characterized by lively rhythms, dynamic movements, and an improvisational style influenced by jazz music itself. Initially a social dance form popular in clubs and theaters, it gained momentum during the Jazz Age of the 1920s, giving rise to unique styles like the Charleston and the Lindy Hop. Over time, influential choreographers such as Jack Cole refined jazz dance, integrating theatrical and technical elements that elevated it to an esteemed art form, while its incorporation into Broadway musicals and Hollywood films helped popularize the genre worldwide. We are fortunate to have a jazz faculty with a wide range of experiences, ranging from classical Fosse-style jazz to contemporary commercial style jazz.
PRESCHOOL DIVISION
Pre-Ballet/Pre-Jazz (4 - 6 year olds) Combination classes offer an introduction to ballet and jazz dance and include technique, choreography and free dance time.
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Pre-Jazz/Pre-Tap (4 - 6 year olds) Combination classes offer an introduction to jazz and tap dancing and include technique, choreography, and free dance time.
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STUDIO DIVISION
Jazz 1 (7-10 year olds) is for beginners with no experience. Students are introduced to the foundational movements and rhythms of jazz dance. This class focuses on basic jazz techniques, including simple footwork, body alignment, and musicality. Participants will learn to develop their coordination and confidence while exploring the expressive nature of jazz dance through beginner combinations.
Jazz 2 & 3 students are expected to have an understanding of the technical foundation built in level 1. Dancers can expect to learn increasingly challenging technical skills, combinations, and choreography.
CONSERVATORY DIVISION
Jazz 4, 5, & 6 classes move more quickly than studio division classes, emphasizing the development of technical skills and expressive capabilities. Students will delve into more complex jazz sequences and begin to explore the use of dynamics and space in their dancing. This level encourages dancers to experiment with personal style while maintaining a strong technical foundation. Conservatory dancers are expected to arrive to each class with a desire and readiness to learn.
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Jazz 7 dancers refine their technique and explore more advanced choreography. The focus is on enhancing fluidity and control, with an emphasis on transitions and the integration of different jazz dance styles. Conservatory dancers are expected to arrive to each class with a desire and readiness to learn.
TWEEN/TEEN DIVISION
Teen/Tween Jazz - Teen classes are for beginning students age 10 and older who may want to explore a new style of dance, or have no dance experience at all! Teen classes are designed so that students can learn with their peers without the difficulties of sharing a class with much younger students. Teen Division students often audition to be placed into a Conservatory level after mastering their fundamentals.
