Preparatory Tier

The Preparatory Tier at Adage Ballet Academy is crafted for dancers aged 9-10, offering a nurturing environment where young students begin to explore the deeper aspects of ballet beyond the basic functions. This tier serves as an essential developmental stage for young dancers, fostering growth in both artistic expression and athletic ability.

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In the Preparatory Tier, dancers delve into the main qualities of movement in ballet, a crucial component for understanding the expressive potential of dance. This tier also introduces an extensive ballet vocabulary, covering terminology of positions, pathways, port de bras (the movement and carriage of the arms), palindromes (movement sequences that are the same forwards and backwards), transfers, and transitions. These concepts are integral for dancers to effectively communicate and perform their movements with clarity and elegance.

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Dancers in this tier begin learning the sequence of a standard ballet barre, which helps in building strength, control, and technique. As they progress, dancers practice center work without the support of the barre. This transition is critical for developing balance, coordination, and the ability to integrate steps into fluid sequences.

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The Preparatory Tier is not only about developing technical skills but also about fostering personal growth. Ballet training at this level helps children build confidence, creativity, and focus—qualities that are beneficial in all areas of life. Our curriculum is designed to be inclusive and supportive, ensuring that all students receive the comprehensive development they need to succeed in ballet and beyond.

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With a focus on individual progress, classes in the Preparatory Tier are structured to recognize and nurture each dancer’s unique journey, helping them to become well-rounded individuals and dancers. This tier sets the basis for a lifelong appreciation of the arts and the personal discipline necessary for any future endeavors.