The Academy at Andalusia Ballet
The Academy at Andalusia Ballet, under the direction of Meryane Murphy, focuses on quality technical training in classical ballet. Students are exposed at an early age to a disciplined, professional attitude. They develop through the years the strength, line and flexibility of classical technique. Self-discipline and dedication to work along with a love and appreciation of dance as an art form are nurtured in each child.
The ballet classes are leveled from Pre-Ballet through Advanced by colors. Students are placed in the level the teachers believe they will learn the best. As a supplement to their ballet training, students are also encouraged to study additional dance forms. Leveled classes in Jazz, Modern, and Tap are also offered.
Faculty
The faculty is comprised of teachers with years of experience in teaching and performing, each with specific areas of expertise, bringing to the Academy at Andalusia Ballet a wealth of knowledge to share. The focus of training is on the excellence, fun, and joy of dance at each level of achievement. The principles, discipline, artistry and mental-physical development acquired through the study of classical ballet and other dance forms provide students with the confidence, focus and poise for success in years to come.
Class Observation
Class Observation: Twice per year, parents/guardians are invited into the studio to observe class. This is an opportunity to experience ballet class from start to finish: barre through center, in some levels variations. Modern, Jazz and Tap also hold parent observations. These are observations are held for parents/guardians to observe their student’s progress.
Pointe Shoe Readiness
Pointe work is introduced when the student is approximately 10-12 years of age and their technique is sufficiently developed. Pointe shoe evaluation classes are given 3 times a year. For a downloadable copy of the pointeshoes readiness information sheet, please click here.
Jazz: Jazz dancing is a form of dance that showcases a dancer’s individual style and originality. Jazz dancing is energetic and fun, consisting of unique moves, fancy footwork, big leaps and quick turns. Jazz teachers begin with a thorough warm-up, and then lead the class in a series of stretching exercises and isolation movements. Isolation’s involve moving one part of the body while the rest of the body remains still. Jazz dancers also practice the art of suspension. Suspension involves moving through positions instead of stopping and balancing in them. Jazz teachers will end the class with a short cool down to help prevent muscle soreness.
Modern: Modern classes are taught barefoot with an emphasis on freedom of movement and expression along with suspend and release technique and improvisation. Although modern dance movements are less structured than classical ballet, great control is required to maintain off-center positions and seemingly unbalanced turns, jumps, and extensions.
Tap: Students learn to create rhythmic patterns and beats using their feet along with special shoes equipped with metal “taps.” Tap focuses on musical phrasing, the complexity of rhythms, and “making melodies” with the feet. Ages 5 and up.