Class Outline
Beginner- Introduction
The class will be directed towards beginners and will progress based on the
needs of the students - individually and as a group. For the first session, we
will focus on basic movements such as isolations of the hips, arms, upper body
and midriff. A simple dance will be taught. It is recommended that all
students take at least two Beginner classes before moving on the next level.
Beginner - Continuing
In the continuing class students will continue to focus on the basic
movements, begin to learn better balance, focusing more on isolation of areas of
the body and perfecting the moves learned in the beginner's class. More
layering of moves will increase abilities to add texture to the dance. A new
choreography is also introduced and practiced.
Tribal for Beginners
A class for continuing and beginner level students working on strengthening
all movements and drills mainly in the arms and torso areas. Finger
Cymbals will be introduced.
Tribal/Beyond Basics
The students in this class have been training in Tribal for 1 year or
more. Finger Cymbal combination drills are included.
Specialty
In this class we continue to build on the Beginner and Continuing technique,
adding layering, complexity and variations to the basic moves. Drills and
exercises are used to refine technique while improving strength and alignment.
There is more focus on learning combinations and whole dances. Students are
encouraged to explore personal expression and creativity through the belly dance
form. Class format contains more "follow-the-leader" segments, demanding
strength, solid technique, and analytical abilities developed in the lower
levels.
Choreography
Progression to advance will depend on individual learning pace
(practice, practice, practice! Students in this class have been studying 2
or more years. This is a faster paced class demanding proficiency in
hip work, undulations and traveling steps. Various
dance rhythms will be explored so that the students may have a richer experience
and there will be more focus on improvisation. Although not only for those
wishing to perform, choreography, costuming and performance techniques will also
be explored.
Year-end Recital (May or June)
Whether a student recital or Hafla, our goal is to showcase students from
all classes. Taking part in the show is not a requisite for registration in
classes but is optional to those registered students who would like the
challenge and satisfaction of preparing for performance. (Poor attendance may
preclude participation in the recital.)
Private and Semi-Private Lessons
Private and semi-private (4-6 students) are available. These can be treated as a weekly class or as a mini-workshop. They are held at the students home or location of choice set up by the student. Ranging from 1 hour at a time to 4 hours intensive, we cover the same moves as in the evening classes, play with veils and discuss the anecdotal origins of belly dancing, (if required) costuming, and other props (stick, zills, swords).
Private Lesson rate: $60.00/hour by appointment
Semi-private Lesson rate: $100.00/hour (4 students) by appointment
Please note, there is a traveling fee added per trip outside a 10 km range
from Milton.