Classical Ballet part 3

Brief course description

Classical Ballet part 3 covers the most important aspects of professional ballet; classical ballet, pas de deux, ballet repertoire and different kinds of supplementary training (including, for example: floor-barre work, conditioning, etc).

The main focus is on the development of a classical ballet technique through integration of the artistic, anatomical, musical and technical dance elements that the art form requires.

Working with the dynamics of movement and the student's ability to move musically and spatially is significant. Great emphasis will be put on the development of an understanding of style, which is necessary for the dancer to be able to perform both the traditional classical repertoire and the contemporary language of movement.

In classical ballet, every individual's physical condition and their own understanding of this is of great importance. Each particular student's physical progression is closely monitored throughout this course. The Academy of Dance has developed a detailed progression plan for the study of classical ballet that covers the last three years (age 16-19 years) of a ballet dancer's eight years' professional education (age 11-19 years). This progression plan has been developed in order to highlight the whole movement repertoire a ballet dancer is expected to master throughout the course. The progression plan has been developed with a solid connection to the traditional vocabulary of classical ballet. The terminology in the progression plan is based on the Vaganova Method, with some international adjustments. The plan indicates which dance steps the student should be able to perform after each semester.

The course’s learning outcomes

On completing the course, the student should:

• be able to display technical and artistic dance abilities of a consistently professional level in classical ballet, pas de deux and relevant repertoire.
• be able to perform classical ballet with musicality, use of space, coordination, freedom of movement and understanding of style.
• be aware of and take responsibility for their own physical progress and show a ballet technique of high standard, according to their own body's capability.
• be able to describe, interpret and evaluate classical ballet and reflect on its relevance in relation to current theatrical dance performances.

Teaching and learning methods

The course consists of teacher-led lessons, coaching and independent study. Classes are usually conducted by a teacher and a pianist with emphasis placed on developing each dancer's musicality. There will also be project work, practice, internship, coaching, excursions, performances and the use of video and film.

Classes can take place in groups of varying size and are adjusted to the progress being made in the course by each group, relative to the learning objectives of the course and the composition of each group.

The coursework requirements are:

• mandatory attendance and participation in classes.
• submission of all assignments.
• a completed, individual progression plan which shows a personal development graph.
• submission of a completed self-evaluation form.

Assessment

Coursework requirements must have been met for the student to receive a final assessment in the course. During the course, the students work and development will be assessed in relation to the course's learning objectives. Individual evaluation discussions will also be held.

At the conclusion of each semester, every student will receive a written assessment from their main teacher. The course will be rounded off with an evaluation class, in which an external examiner will assess the students' levels of achievement. This will take place during the final assessment of the course.

The course is assessed by the awarding of either a pass or a fail grade.