Our Technique
The Valley Academy School of Ballet teaching style is based on the European tradition of ballet. Our technique and application are explored through the systematic teachings of Vaganova, anatomy, kinesiology, and development movement in children to minimize injuries while maximizing strength, flexibility, and longevity. We believe that every child should have the opportunity to learn excellent, proper technique and that dance is introduced in a meaningful and engaging setting that will prepare children for what life brings their way.
We teach dance as a technique that helps our students develop life skills such as perseverance, imagination, self-discipline, social and emotional competence, curiosity, problem-solving, and human interaction. Our dance training levels are designed based on the age, expertise, and maturity of each student with an emphasis on performance-based versus competition- based experiences.
We teach dance as a technique that helps our students develop life skills such as perseverance, imagination, self-discipline, social and emotional competence, curiosity, problem-solving, and human interaction. Our dance training levels are designed based on the age, expertise, and maturity of each student with an emphasis on performance-based versus competition- based experiences.
Our Classes
Our instructors will guide you through class selection. If you are unable to attend the official registration days, you may sign up at any time throughout the academic year during scheduled class times. Contact us for information.
Student Division: K-12
Students of Valley Academy for the Arts are trained in the extended Vaganova Method of Classical Ballet. Agrippina Vaganova (1879-1951) was a distinguished Russian ballet dancer, choreographer, and teacher. She created her own method of teaching ballet, while her book, ‘Basic Principles of Classical Ballet’ (1934), is still regarded as a standard of ballet instruction. The Vaganova method is a ballet technique and training system that focuses on internalizing muscle memory, emphasizes artistry and expression, and injury-free training.
The foundation of our Ballet program begins with Rhythm & Groove and Pre-Ballet, with students eventually advancing on to our Academy and Conservatory Divisions.
Students of Valley Academy for the Arts are trained in the extended Vaganova Method of Classical Ballet. Agrippina Vaganova (1879-1951) was a distinguished Russian ballet dancer, choreographer, and teacher. She created her own method of teaching ballet, while her book, ‘Basic Principles of Classical Ballet’ (1934), is still regarded as a standard of ballet instruction. The Vaganova method is a ballet technique and training system that focuses on internalizing muscle memory, emphasizes artistry and expression, and injury-free training.
The foundation of our Ballet program begins with Rhythm & Groove and Pre-Ballet, with students eventually advancing on to our Academy and Conservatory Divisions.
Open Division/Recreational Dance
Dance appreciation classes with basic instruction, technique, and choreographed with routine and performance in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, and Irish dance classes.
Dress Code Requirements: Appropriate dance shoe with hair pulled back. Leotard and tights preferred.
Dance appreciation classes with basic instruction, technique, and choreographed with routine and performance in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip-hop, and Irish dance classes.
Dress Code Requirements: Appropriate dance shoe with hair pulled back. Leotard and tights preferred.
Academy Division
The Academy program instills discipline & builds foundation through the systematic teachings of Vaganova, anatomy & kinesiology. Open to students ages 5-9 years; the academy program incorporates strength, confidence, and progression. The fundamentals of ballet are introduced at an appropriate age level with emphasis on posture, body awareness, and placement.
The Academy program instills discipline & builds foundation through the systematic teachings of Vaganova, anatomy & kinesiology. Open to students ages 5-9 years; the academy program incorporates strength, confidence, and progression. The fundamentals of ballet are introduced at an appropriate age level with emphasis on posture, body awareness, and placement.
- Pre-Ballet (ages 3-4): A class designed for your preschooler and kindergartner to explore dance through story-telling and creative movement. This is a highly creative class where students will be introduced to the basics of classical ballet (terminology and positions) in an age appropriate method.
- Ballet 1 (ages 5+ or by invitation): Students are taught fundamental ballet technique and learn the discipline necessary for studying classical ballet.
- Ballet 2 (ages 6+): Class placement by experience and ability. Students are evaluated and must demonstrate the skill requirements of previous levels. Higher-level classes will require multiple classes per week.
- Ballet 3 (ages 6+ or by invitation)
Conservatory Division
Placement by experience and ability, audition & invitation extended at the discretion of the Artistic Director. For intermediate and advanced dancers who demonstrate proficiency in classical ballet discipline and technique and are committed to ongoing personal and professional development. Students will attend multiple classes per week with participation in VAA student council, community outreach programs & performances. Instructed by Valley Academy for the Arts founder and Artistic Director, Anne Marie Brunner-Abderholden.
Placement by experience and ability, audition & invitation extended at the discretion of the Artistic Director. For intermediate and advanced dancers who demonstrate proficiency in classical ballet discipline and technique and are committed to ongoing personal and professional development. Students will attend multiple classes per week with participation in VAA student council, community outreach programs & performances. Instructed by Valley Academy for the Arts founder and Artistic Director, Anne Marie Brunner-Abderholden.
- Ballet 4, 5, 6 (class placement by experience and ability)
- Point (Intermediate, Advanced): Pointe class is by invitation only and at the discretion of the Artistic Director
Vision Dance Theatre
Invitation only. For intermediate and advanced dancers that are looking to enhance their performance opportunities and gain community service experience by participating in community outreach programs and performances.
Invitation only. For intermediate and advanced dancers that are looking to enhance their performance opportunities and gain community service experience by participating in community outreach programs and performances.
Open Division: Teen- Adult
Valley Academy for the Arts Open Division offers classes for teens, adults, and seniors at all levels of experience.
Class Descriptions:
Dress Requirements: Comfortable, athletic clothing
Valley Academy for the Arts Open Division offers classes for teens, adults, and seniors at all levels of experience.
Class Descriptions:
- Ballet – Beginning Adult: An introductory level course that introduces the fundamentals of ballet (including barre and center work). No previous dance experience required.
- Ballet – Intermediate Adult: An intermediate class for dancers with previous ballet experience or for those dancers who have attended Ballet-Beginning Adult.
- Modern: All are welcome. No previous dance experience required.
Dress Requirements: Comfortable, athletic clothing
Dress Requirements
- Pink or white tights (white socks may be worn during summer)
- Pink ballet slippers
- Leotards:
- Pre ballet- pink
- Ballet- 1 Light purple
- Ballet – 2 Light Blue
- Ballet – 3 Burgundy
- Ballet – 4 Royal Blue
- Ballet – 5 Navy
- Ballet – 6 Black
- Pre ballet- pink
- Hair secured in a bun for all ballet classes
- Boys: Black leggings with tight legs and a white shirt, black ballet slippers