Dance

Dance Classes at the YMCA of Frederick County

The YMCA has just the class for you whether you are a seeking professional development, dancing for fun or just getting started

Let the dancer in you shine! There is a home for everyone when you join our YMCA Dance Family. We have just the class for you whether you are a seeking professional development, dancing for fun or just getting started! Our program offers classes for ages 2 – adult in a variety of styles

Preschool 2: ages 2-3

This is a 30-minute introductory parent/child class for ages 2-3. Parents will participate in the studio with their children for their first-time dance experience to explore movement and music in a safe and fun environment.

Preschool 3: ages 3-4

This is a 45-minute class. Students will start to step away from parents and interact more with other classmates as they continue to explore movement while learning important dance basics introduced through fun activities.

Preschool 4: ages 4-5

Students become more spatially aware of their bodies in this 45-minute dance class. Dancers will learn basic ballet movements using games and activities to help students learn and practice skills that will develop their ballet techniques.

Preschool Dance

Designed for children ages 2-5, these classes introduce dancers to creative movement and musicality while incorporating different techniques into their movements.

Primary

These classes are designed for students ages 6-8 introducing them to the world of dance. Classes occur once a week with the goal of instilling a love for dance in each child and nurturing creativity in a caring atmosphere. This combination class will build a foundation of ballet and explore different styles of dance while also learning dance etiquette and basic technique that will get you ready for the stage! These classes are available all year and you can start anytime. You will need to complete 1 full year of this class before entering an individualized technique class.

Elementary

Dancers enrolling in Elementary classes are ready to transition from combination classes and are prepared for a higher level of focus, technique, and deeper exploration into various styles of dance. Ballet is mandatory to take the other offerings. Students are encouraged to begin their Cecchetti Ballet Method training at this level in addition to their mandatory ballet class. We offer elementary level classes in ballet, jazz, hip hop, and tap. One year of prior dance experience is required. (Ages 8+)

Youth

Dancers enrolling in Youth classes are prepared for a more rigorous dance experience and will continue to build technique, stage presence, and self-awareness. Students are encouraged to enroll Cecchetti Ballet Method training at this level in addition to their ballet class. We offer youth level classes in ballet, modern, jazz, hip hop, and tap. Two years of prior dance experience is required. (Ages 10+)

Teen

Dancers enrolling in Teen classes are prepared for a more rigorous dance experience while continuing to improve their dance technique. Students are expected to take all ballet and appropriate Cecchetti Method class at this level to participate in pointe work. We offer teen classes in ballet, modern, jazz, tap, hip hop and pointe. Two years of prior dance experience is required. (Ages 13+)

Cecchetti 1

This class is for students ages 8-14 who will need approximately 100 classroom hours (2.5 years) to learn pre-set material. Students must pass teacher assessment before taking the exam. Students will attend class with full presence. Students must be attentive, self-disciplined and prepared. Hair must be worn in a classical bun. Students must wear a black leotard. Students should take an additional ballet class weekly. This class may be part of the preparation for pointe work.

Cecchetti 2

With a teacher recommendation and students who have passed Grade I exams. Students ages 8-14 need approximately 100 classroom hours (2.5 years) to learn preset material. Students must pass teacher assessments before the examination. Students will attend class with full presence. Students must be attentive, self-disciplined, and prepared. Hair must be worn in a classical bun. Students must wear a black leotard. Students should take an additional ballet class. This class is essential for students attending Pointe class.

Cecchetti 3

This class is for students ages 12-18 who need approximately 100 hours of instruction (2.5 years) to learn preset material. Students must pass teacher assessments before the examination. Students attend weekend ballet conferences. Students display maturity and professional behavior. Students wear black leotard and hair in a classical bun. Students need no prompting from instructors about behavior expectations. Students attend an additional ballet class. This class is essential for students attending Pointe class.

*Cecchetti III/IV Can be taken in the 2nd year of study of Cecchetti III.

Pointe and Pre-Pointe Conditioning

For students who are ready to build the strength and flexibility as they advance toward being on pointe or those who are ready to be on pointe. Students must have prior instructor approval and at least 3 years of ballet experience.

Special Needs Dance

Taught by a certified Rhythm Works Integrated Dance Instructor. This class provides music, purposeful movement and rhythm patterns to move the body. A class specifically designed to assist in a child’s individual developmental goals and specific sensory, cognitive, and physical needs while progressing fine and gross motor skills.

Adult

These classes are designed for those who have busy lives and a passion for dance. Take just one or take them all, students will continue to learn stylistic technique, build strength, and increase flexibility. We offer adult classes in ballet, tap, ballroom, and hip hop. No prior dance experience is required. (Ages 18+)