Frequently Asked Questions
I would like my child to study dance at ADI, what level should I sign her up for?
A placement evaluation is required for all students ages 8 and older. Pre Ballet students ages 4-7 are placed by the child’s age. Birthday cut off for Pre Ballet students is September 1st. All placement evaluations are scheduled through ADI’s Artistic Director, Pamela Bjerknes. Ms. Bjerknes can be contacted directly at: pbjerknes@americandance.org or call (301) 984-3003 ext. 13.
Will there be performance opportunities for my child?
Yes. Students ages 8 and older have the opportunity to participate in ADI’s End Of Year Student Demonstration. Some students may participate in the December performance, which includes Act II of the Nutcracker. ADI’s Youth Ensemble Performing Group is an opportunity for advanced level students to perform throughout the year at ADI as well as Outreach Performances. Often there are performance opportunities with internationally known ballet companies performing at the Kennedy Center. Participation in the Youth Ensemble is determined by ADI’s directors.
The Pre Ballet Division hosts in-studio Parent Visiting Days in December and June.
When will my child go on pointe?
Students are evaluated for pointe readiness after they have completed Level 3 in the Pre Professional Ballet Division. Foot flexibility, strength and individual accomplishment of the ADI syllabus are factors in determining pointe readiness.
What is the difference between the Pre Professional Ballet, Dance For All and Jazz divisions?
The Pre Professional Ballet division trains students ages 8-18 in classical ballet technique. The faculty uses a curriculum based on the Vaganova syllabus together with knowledge gained from the latest studies on child development creating a solid foundation of classical ballet technique, strength, musicality and coordination.
The Dance for All division is uniquely designed for students to obtain excellent dance training in a less formal setting while developing their own program of classes. The Dance For All division allows students to continue dance during the years when school, social and family commitments overtake their time and energy. Students may enroll for 1-5 of these classes per week. Classes are offered in Ballet, Jazz and Pilates.
Jazz students will train in the basic movements and terminology of jazz dance including Broadway, funk and classical styles. Different styles of music will be used to help children understand rhythm and syncopation. In the beginning levels students learn basic technique as well as exercises that emphasize body isolations and coordination. Proper alignment of the spine and knee to foot are emphasized in all levels. Ballet class is required in the intermediate and advanced levels of Jazz. Ballet is an important component in teaching the foundation of line, technique and terminology. In these levels students will learn more complex combinations and emphasis will be placed on the further development of technique and style.
Can my child try a class before registering?
A class placement evaluation must be scheduled for children ages 8 and older prior to participation in the programs. ADI has open viewing windows for visitors into all its classrooms. This gives young pre ballet students and their parents an opportunity to observe ongoing classes. Please check in at the Front Desk when you arrive and they will assist you.
In addition to it regular class schedule the Institute hosts special events, throughout the year for adults and children of all ages. These include classes, workshops, Master Classes, as well as summer classes and camps.
