Seventh Through Twelfth Grade Classes
Students in seventh through twelfth grade are invited to enroll in one-hour classes in the disciplines of their choice. Instruction is offered in tap, jazz and ballet dance and students are placed according to age, years of dance experience and individual ability. Tap classes are taught by Cece Bechelli, Sheri Bechelli, and Matt Bechelli. Jazz classes are taught by Ellen Bauer and Cece Bechelli, and ballet classes are taught by Sandra Tanner. Our goal is for students to gain self-confidence, build and improve dance skills and enjoy camaraderie with fellow dancers in a productive and positive atmosphere. Students will understand the importance of each individual dancer’s contribution to the class as a whole. Students are invited to perform in various community events as well as our annual recitals. Classes run on a ten-month basis from September through June.
Tap
Tap Classes for seventh through twelfth grade students are geared for students who enjoy music and dance and are serious in their pursuit of becoming more proficient tap dancers. Class levels range from beginner through advanced. Students progress through a curriculum where they learn technique, strength, flexibility and musicality. Students explore the basics of counting music and execution of beginning tap rhythms to the understanding and execution of very complex rhythm patterns and sequencing. Our intermediate and advanced tap students learn dances choreographed by world-renowned tap masters as well as original choreography by the Happy Feet faculty. Tap history is also woven into the curriculum. Music selection includes world beat, jazz standards, contemporary pop, funk, and Broadway show tunes. Students benefit from the professional performing and teaching experience of Cece, Sheri, and Matt. Students are also invited to study with visiting guest artists at Happy Feet.
Jazz
 Jazz classes for seventh through twelfth grade students are geared for those who want great exercise, fun, camaraderie and are serious in their pursuit of improving their skills as jazz dancers. Beginning and advanced beginning classes are taught by Cece Bechelli. Intermediate and advanced level classes are taught by Ellen Bauer. Both Ellen and Cece have over thirty years of performing and teaching experience. Curriculum includes emphasis on proper alignment, placement, posture and building strength and flexibility.
Technique is taught at the barre and center floor eventually incorporating the technique into across the floor patterns and dance combinations. Music selection is varied and includes contemporary pop, lyrical, Broadway show tunes and world music such as African, Latin and Brazilian.
Ballet
 Our Teen-age ballet students will have the opportunity to learn the basics of classical ballet and its vocabulary, in French, in a productive, encouraging and safe setting. Correct body alignment as well as developing the core strength needed for proper execution of ballet technique will be emphasized. Class starts at the ballet barre with warm up exercises that focus on building the strength, flexibility and coordination necessary to dance in the center floor. Through these teaching principles a positive body image will be cultivated resulting in a greater awareness of the grace, power and beauty.
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