Class Descriptions
Curriculum
We are dedicated to nurturing every dancer's development through a positive and progressive curriculum. We gradually teach our students to explore the correlation between their bodies and proper dance technique, placement, and coordination – the natural navigation of the body. Erie Dance Conservatory offers individuals of all ages the most professional dance training available. Each student is evaluated on a regular basis to ensure proper placement. Changes in a student’s class placement are made based on the recommendations of EDC Director and Faculty. Placement and advancement from one level to the next are based on the student’s accomplishments and ability, not simply on age or the number of years spent in study.
Comprehensive Class Offerings
Our positive atmosphere is a safe haven in which our students can learn the art of dance and develop a fundamental understanding of the form that will allow them to continue to thrive in dance throughout their lives.
Tiny Tots
Children are encouraged to participate independently from their parents/caregivers. Using ballet principles and vocabulary, students learn classroom etiquette, body awareness, movement exploration, and musicality in a positive and encouraging environment. This is preparation for basic ballet study.
Ballet
Studied at its traditional form and structure, EDC’s Ballet classes are graded by age and ability, levels 1 through 6, and are taught in the Vaganova and French School styles. Proper body alignment, classical line, musicality, and ballet vocabulary are emphasized at all levels. Students are taught the basic elements of classical ballet that are common in all major ballet syllabi.
Modern
Graded by age and ability, the Modern dance syllabus is based primarily on the Graham and Horton techniques. Movement theories and common steps are also introduced and further explored at upper levels. Students are challenged by increased complexity and length of the sequence, constant level change, and the use of non-traditional phrasing.
Jazz
Graded by age and ability, the Jazz program focuses on developing strong lines, technique, a command of proper jazz dance terminology, and an understanding of the body’s center of movement. Styles of concentration include modern jazz as well as a combination of vernacular and contemporary movement.
Hip-Hop
Graded by age and ability, Hip-Hop dance refers to street dance styles primarily performed to hip-hop music or that have evolved as part of hip-hop culture. It includes a wide range of styles primarily breaking which was created in the 1970s and made popular by dance crews in the United States. This class is designed for students with or without formal dance training. These upbeat classes will focus on rhythm, isolations, freestyle, and choreography.
Tap
Graded by age and ability, the Tap program incorporates a blend of both buck and rhythm tap styles by using the sounds of tap shoes striking the floor as a form of percussion. These classes will emphasize technique, terminology, precision, and strong rhythmic skills.
Acro
Graded by age and skill, the Acro program emphasizes the art, skill, and performance of an acrobat. This display of spectacular skill and agility is very similar to the “floor routine” of a gymnast that integrates tumbling, musicality, and strength training.