Gulfshore Ballet faculty will assess each incoming student to determine the correct level at which the child should be placed by offering a Placement Class (held during our Season in a currently running class).
Placement classes are $20 per class, due when the student comes to take the Placement Class.
There are no refunds on Placement Class fees in the event that you decide not to enroll your child in classes.
Placement Classes taken during Summer Sessions or Open Classes will be at the going class rate.
A Gulfshore Ballet staff member will contact you within 3 days of submitting your registration to schedule the Placement Class. The instructor will make a recommendation for placement that best suits your child’s current skill, ability and experience. Please be advised that the Placement Class is not an audition but is an assessment.
After you have been contacted by a Gulfshore Ballet Staff member and given the appropriate Level and class to try please click on this link to register for a Placement Class. Once you create an account and log in please click on the correct Level and Class and then “Trial Lesson”.
Placement classes are not given for Creative Dance (Mommy/Daddy and Me), Private Lessons, Adult Division or Elective Classes such as Lyrical.
Online Registration/Parent Portal
You can also contact the Gulfshore Ballet Office to schedule a Placement Class
email: gsballetoffice@gmail.com
Phone: 239-590-6191
Individual Levels
Curriculum
The curriculum at Gulfshore Ballet is designed to meet the needs of those students who are striving to achieve a professional career in Classical Ballet while also maintaining class options for the dancer who wishes to study ballet to support other dance forms. Our program is also for those who wish to take classes for the pure enjoyment and exposure to movement. Each level of our curriculum fosters a strong technical foundation and a high level of discipline and commitment.
Our program allows for students to begin their training at a young age setting the foundation for correct technique.
Beginning with the Pre-Ballet Division, young dancers creatively express themselves and explore movement while developing self-control, discipline and rhythmic skills.
As the student moves through the school at each level, they will be afforded the opportunity to progress into higher levels of instruction.
At the Pre-Professional level, the student will have received a full understanding of the art of Classical Ballet, a strong technical base, a comprehensive dance vocabulary, fluidity, grace and discipline.
It is our goal for students at the Pre-Professional level to have the technical and performing skills that will enable them to audition for and study with professional dance schools or to study dance at an institution of higher education.
The curriculum at Gulfshore Ballet includes a training syllabus for dancers at each level for each academic year.
Class offerings include Classical Ballet, Pointe, Variations as well as Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical and Pilates.
All of our classes emphasize correct body alignment and correct Classical Ballet technique. Each student’s class level is determined by the instructor and is based on an individual assessment during the trial Placement class.
Baby Ballerinas and Pre Ballet Class placements are generally based on Age and Ability.
All students will receive corrective feedback throughout the year to help them develop the physical skills necessary to improve and advance.
BOYS/MALE STUDENTS
GSB offers a Male Student Program for all levels from age 4 through Pre Pro. Boys take all Technique Classes, Variations, Pas de Deux, Vaganova Floor Barre, Pilates and any other Specials in their Levels along with Jumps, Leaps & Turns.
LEVEL PROGRESSION
Please note that progression through the various Levels is based on age, ability, experience and is at the discretion of GSB Artistic Directors and Instructors.
Age Guidelines are approximate and are not the only deciding factors for Placement and Levels.
Most Students will remain in their respective Levels for at least a year, sometimes longer if the Instructional Staff thinks that they require more time and practice to learn and execute proper technique before moving into a higher Level and especially before starting Pointe.
Students must have solid technical skills, strong feet, good placement among other things before they will be allowed on Pointe. GSB Artistic Directors and Instructors will let Parents know when their child is ready for Pointe work.
Students that are older and have proficient experience in related dance forms or gymnastics may move up more quickly than a beginner student who does not have a similar background.
Ballet is an art form that requires regular, consistent practice in order to show improvement therefore class attendance is important.
Dancers must also show mental maturity, physical coordination, the ability to follow instructions and process corrections before being promoted.
Promotion is not a given and a certain level of determination and commitment, from both the student and family, is necessary to continue dancing at higher levels.
Age recommendations are approximate and to be used as a guide- GSB Staff will make Level Placement decisions at their discretion, based on ability and progression
Pre-Ballet Division
Creative Dance-Mommy/Daddy and Me 2-3 years old
No Placement Class required for Creative Dance
This class for our littlest dancers will emphasize expression and imagination through movement, dance, music, social interaction and props to help build motor skills and hand eye coordination. We will also explore introductory ballet terms and positions. We ask mommies (or daddies) to stay with their children while they engage in the class.
Attire: We recommend that your little one wear a leotard, leotard with tutu attached, tights and ballet slippers. Boys can wear shorts and a t shirt with socks. Parents, please wear something comfortable that you can move in.
Beginner Ballet (Baby Ballerinas): 4-5 years old
Gulfshore Ballet offers a beginner ballet class on Saturdays. Designed for younger students, this class will focus on creative movement and musicality with the use of basic ballet skills and vocabulary, while practicing classroom etiquette, personal space, general space and self-control. No previous ballet training is necessary. The minimum age for Baby Ballerinas is 4 years old.
Pre-Ballet 1: 5-6 years old
Pre-Ballet 1 offers an introduction to the art of dance by promoting the exploration of creativity and expression through movement. The use of scarves, hoops, bean bags, tambourines and child-friendly music enhance the learning environment for this age group and enhances the development and improvement of motor skills, coordination, attention and listening skills, providing students with the skills necessary to continue their study of ballet at the next level.
Pre-Ballet 2 & Pre-Ballet 3: 6-8 years old
Pre-Ballet 2 & 3 students will begin a more formal study of Classical Ballet. Building on the skills learned in Pre-Ballet 1, students will continue to improve their physical skills, creative abilities and rhythmic skills. Students will continue to expand ballet vocabulary to prepare them for the elementary level of instruction required for Levels 1 & 2.
Elementary Division
Level 1
Level 1 students meet two times per week, transitioning from the Pre-Ballet Division and entering into a more structured class environment. At this level, the student is introduced to an increased formal Classical Ballet training, building on vocabulary, physical skills, articulation of body parts and exercises to enhance rotation, flexibility and strength. This level continues to reinforce the relationship of movement, music and expression. Exercises and placement at the barre are introduced to prepare the student for the next level of instruction.
Level 2
Level 2 students meet two times per week, are taught fundamental ballet technique and develop the self-discipline necessary to continue the study of Classical Ballet. The skills practiced in level 1 are reinforced as students continue to build on vocabulary, physical skills, articulation of body parts and exercises to enhance rotation, flexibility and strength. Students in Level 2 will continue to learn placement and exercises at the barre, focusing more on correct alignment, posture and classical technique.
Intermediate Division
Level 3/*3A (*2nd year pointe students)
Level 3 students meet 3 days per week, plus Saturday and will continue their training with 3 technique classes per week, 1 pre-pointe/pointe class (2 pointe classes for Level 3A) and receive training in Contemporary, Jazz, Lyrical and Vaganova Floor Barre class. In addition to practicing and refining previously learned skills in the Elementary Division, students will begin applying these skills to ballet barre, center and floor work. Students in the Intermediate Division are introduced to a variety of dance elective classes.
Level 4
Level 4 students meet 4 days per week, plus Saturday and will continue their training with 4 technique classes and 3 pointe classes per week. In addition, Level 4 will receive training in Contemporary, Jazz, Lyrical, Pilates and Vaganova Floor Barre. These classes are designed to build core strength, muscular endurance, flexibility and body composition. They will continue to develop and refine their classical ballet technique and develop a stronger understanding of the body’s movement, an increased awareness and appreciation of the fitness benefits associated with movement and the commitment needed to further one’s training in Classical Ballet. Students at this level will be working on Pointe skills and technique..
Level 5
Level 5 students meet 5 days per week and will continue their training with 5 technique classes and 4 pointe classes per week. In addition to the required ballet curriculum, Pointe and variations are also integrated into the curriculum to expand upon their existing techniques and to enhance the dancer’s versatility. Upon completion students will have mastered a thorough knowledge of the classical ballet vocabulary while gaining supplemental training in Contemporary, Jazz, Lyrical, Pilates and Vaganova Floor Barre. With the development of strong Classical Ballet Technique, students have gained valuable life skills such as commitment, discipline, motivation, confidence and self-esteem.
Upon completion of the Intermediate Division, the dancer will have developed an extensive classical ballet vocabulary and is prepared to progress into the Advanced Division
Advanced Division
Levels 6-7-8
Level 6 students meet 5 days per week and will continue their training with 5 technique classes and 5 pointe/variations classes per week
Level 7 students meet 5 days per week and will continue their training with 5 technique classes and 6 pointe/variations classes per week.
Level 8 students meet 5 days per week and will continue their training with 5 technique classes and 6 pointe/variations classes per week.
In addition, Level 6-7-8 will receive supplemental training in Contemporary, Jazz, Vaganova Floor Barre and Pilates. These classes are designed to build core strength, muscular endurance, flexibility and body composition.
Advanced level students are able to polish their skills and refine their technique with the increased number of classes per week. Upon completion of the Advanced Division, students will have mastered a thorough knowledge of classical ballet vocabulary.
With the development of strong Classical Ballet Technique, students gain valuable life skills such as commitment, discipline, motivation, confidence and self-esteem.
Pre-Professional
Level Pre-Pro
Level Pre-Pro students are expected to work in a professional environment. Pre-Pro students will continue their training with 5 technique classes, 6 pointe classes per week along with variations and pas de deux. In addition, Level Pre-Pro will receive training in Contemporary, Jazz, Vaganova Floor Barre and Pilates. These classes are designed to build core strength, muscular endurance, flexibility and body composition.
The Pre-Professional Division is designed for students who wish to continue to refine their technique and for those who are in pursuit of a pre-professional training experience. Students in this Division are expected to integrate a variety of elective classes into their program of study, including Jazz, Pilates, Contemporary and Lyrical. Students in the Pre-Professional Division are mentored by our professional staff in their future dance career or in higher education.
Pointe
Pointe class is for students who have developed and strengthened the muscles that are necessary to begin Pointe work. Readiness for Pointe work is generally determined by each student’s strength and physical development, not necessarily by age. The instructor will advise parents when a student has the necessary physical strength and maturity to go on Pointe. Pointe class may be taken only with the permission of the instructor.
When to start Pointe training:
Going “en pointe” is a milestone that every young ballet dancer dreams of. This fascination with the beautiful pink satin pointe shoe and visions of rising up to the toes brings yearning and excitement. But the reality is that dancing on pointe is very difficult and can be extremely dangerous if the student is not technically or physically ready to endure the rigors of pointe work. Bone maturation (ossification) of the growth plates of the foot is not fully complete until the later teenage years and it is imperative that the student be evaluated for pointe readiness before being given permission to undertake pointe classes. Injuries to the feet, knees and spine can occur if the student is put on pointe prematurely and can result in lifelong problems.
It is recommended that a student train a minimum of four years in soft slippers to develop a proper demi pointe (rising to half-toe) and take at least three technique classes per week for at least one year prior to going on pointe in order to develop the proper technical abilities needed.
Although most children begin pointe work between the ages of 10 and 13, chronological age should not be the only determining factor for pointe readiness. The teacher is the most familiar with the ability of the dancer and should evaluate these very essential aspects before recommending that a student go on pointe:
- Stage of physical development
- Foot and ankle strength
- Foot and ankle flexibility
- Correct placement (alignment of the upper body, hip, knee, ankle and foot)
- Core strength (quality of abdominal, trunk and pelvic control)
- Intensity of training (how many classes a student takes per week)
GSB Ensemble
Ensemble 2: Levels 6-7-8-Pre Pro & Ensemble 1: Levels 3-4-5
The Gulfshore Ballet Ensemble (GSB Ensemble) is a classical ballet elective program designed for Gulfshore Ballet students who are interested in increasing their training, improving technical skills, Pas de deux (partnering), pointe, variations, and increased performance opportunities. The GSB Ensemble is open to students in Levels 3-4-5 and 6-7-8-Pre Pro.
Private Lessons
Private Lessons: $90-$130 per hour
Gulfshore ballet offers private lessons for all interested students. Private classes are for students who are seeking a positive and personalized ballet experience at a level that is appropriate for them.
Students that have missed classes and rehearsals for any upcoming shows will also benefit from taking Private Lessons and Private Lessons may be a performance prerequisite for those who have excessively missed classes and rehearsals.
Please register through our website using the Sign Up Via Dance Studio Pro link to create an account-you will need to put in Parent/Guardian information and once the Parent Portal account is approved you will need to add your child as a Student.
You can then go to the Main Menu and select Studio Store where you will see options to select times and instructors for Private Lessons. Once you’ve chosen the Instructor and length of time please go ahead and pay for the lesson, then contact the GSB Office to Schedule a Private Lesson, indicating desired day(s)/times.
email: gsballetoffice@gmail.com
Phone: 239-590-6191
- Once your Private Lesson is confirmed, scheduled and paid for, you and the instructor will receive a confirmation email.
- If a student cancels without providing 24 hour notice, or if a student is not in attendance for their scheduled private, there will be no refund for that session.
Adult Ballet Program
Gulfshore Ballet offers adult students of all ages and experience participation in classical ballet through the Adult Ballet Program. Classes are ideal for beginners who are interested in learning at a slow pace to the advanced student who has a strong background and technical skills in ballet. All classes are great for the adult student who is passionate about ballet, wants to have fun and enjoys practicing ballet while improving fitness.
*Adult students can register online for Adult Ballet Classes by creating an account online in Dance Studio Pro then choosing Adult Ballet and Drop In Class or by purchasing Dance Class Cards.
RATES:
Single Class Rate (Adult Technique): $25
Single Class Rate (Adult Pointe): $15
5 Class Dance Card: $125
10 Class Dance Card: $240
5 Adult Pointe Class Card: $75
10 Adult Pointe Class Card: $140
Teen & Adult Ballet, Beginner/Intermediate
Saturday 11:30 am -12:30 pm
Class designed for students who are new to ballet, returning to ballet or continuing their training. This class will provide an opportunity to gain a strong foundation of technique and learn the fundamentals of ballet. Moving at a slower pace, the focus is on ballet positions, vocabulary, technique, flexibility and proper alignment/placement. Students do Barre, Center, Adagio, Allegro, across the floor and combinations.
This class may be a pre-requisite to Leveled classes (Per Instructor request) for students under age 18 or a supplementary class for Leveled Students.
Minimum age is 12 for the Teen & Adult Ballet Class.
Adult Ballet, Intermediate/Advanced
Monday 7:00-8:00 pm
This 60 minute class features a traditional, structured ballet class with exercises at the barre and in the center. This is an ideal class for the adult student who wishes to continue their ballet training in an upbeat and energetic environment. This is the perfect class for the former professional dancer & student who wish to stay in shape. Previous ballet training recommended.
Adult Ballet, Open All Levels
Tuesdays and Thursdays 10:30-11:30 am
This 60 minute class features a traditional, structured classical ballet class with exercises at the barre, center and across the floor. This is the ideal class for the adult who wants to learn the structure, sequence and skills of a traditional ballet class and is open to all Levels from beginner to advanced.
Adult Pointe
Tuesday 11:30 am-12:00 pm
Note: All students must be approved by the instructor before they take the Adult Pointe class. Students must attend the Adult Ballet Technique class before the Pointe class to prevent injuries
Right to Refuse Admission or Service
Gulfshore Ballet reserves the right to deny service, enrollment, and/or revoke previously awarded privileges at the discretion of the Executive Director.
Special Coaching
Gulfshore Ballet is pleased to offer special coaching for both Gulfshore Ballet students as well as non-Gulfshore Ballet students who are eligible* for competition and other dance related professional activities. Gulfshore Ballet offers students in the community the opportunity to engage and train for the following types of programs:
- In & out of state competition programs (Youth America Grand Prix, Universal Ballet Competition, World Ballet Competition, and American Dance Competition)
- Scholarship competition programs
- Ballet class for ice skaters
- Ballet class for gymnasts
- Musical theater character development and stage presence
- Coaching in classical ballet, contemporary, solo competition, group competition
Special coaching sessions are provided by Gulfshore Ballet Artistic Directors Iliana Lopez and Franklin Gamero, both former principal dancers with the Miami City Ballet. Ms. Lopez & Mr. Gamero have extensive performing and teaching experience and are able to provide master instruction in the competitive dance and performance world.
Ms. Lopez has instructed master classes at the Universal Ballet Competition 2016, held in Miromar, Florida on February 20th&21st, 2016 and Mr. Gamero has been a judge at the American Dance Competition. Both Lopez & Gamero were invited to provide private coaching sessions with a number of students from the Meg Segreto Dance Center, all of whom placed at YAGP finals in New York as well as teaching master classes at the Magda Aunon school of classical ballet in Fort Lauderdale, FL and the Regional Dance America- Southwest from April 8-10, 2016.
During Gulfshore Ballet’s off season months, Ms. Lopez & Mr. Gamero teach summer intensive programs at the Orlando Ballet (Jacksonville & Orlando) and the Saratoga Summer Dance Intensive in Saratoga Springs, NY.
Below are some points to consider when a student is interested in training for competitive programs:
- in most cases, the student will be required to attend a minimum of three classes per week for up to 3 hours a day
- the recommended time for preparation is three months in advance of the competition date
- the cost varies from student to student & competition to competition. Fees range depending on the total number of coaching sessions and hours.
- students who hire GSB staff for new choreographic works will be charged at a higher rate than those students who have their own routine and require coaching in refining their movement skills and stage presentation.
For more information, please contact Gulfshore Ballet at (239) 590-6191 or at gulfshoreballet@gmail.com
*Gulfshore Ballet artistic staff reserves the right to determine eligibility for competition training