Informational material excerpted from the Royal Academy of Dance Website

THE ROYAL ACADEMY OF DANCE

The Royal Academy of Dance is the largest international classical ballet education organisation in the world. We offer examinations in classical ballet for young children starting out in dance classes to the student aspiring to become a professional dancer. We also train teachers of classical ballet through taught and distance learning programmes at certificate, diploma and degree levels. We have over 18,000 members spanning 84 countries. Over 180,000 students undertake our examinations every year. 

The Academy aims to develop the highest possible standards of teaching.

The Academy provides two distinct training pathways in classical ballet: the Graded and Vocational Graded programmes. Teachers following the Royal Academy system encourage young people to achieve their personal best in the understanding, appreciation and performance of classical ballet. At each stage of training the level of technical expertise is within the grasp of students who, through a balanced and progressive programme of study, are sympathetically and expertly helped towards an increasingly sound understanding of the principles of movement and fundamentals of classical ballet.

Whatever age or stage they may have reached, young people who study with an Academy teacher can be confident they will be taught according to safe teaching principles and are receiving the most comprehensive, well structured and relevant programme of classical ballet available.

In association with its aim to provide the highest possible standard of teaching classical ballet, the Royal Academy of Dance stresses the importance of every student having an achievable goal. This is measured either by Examination or a Presentation Class, which involves the study of either the Graded or Vocational Graded Syllabus, related to the development of the student.

THE BENEFITS

A mother's comments about the benefits of classical ballet:

" I believe it is a part of a child's education. It teaches them something about personal discipline and starts them off learning to enjoy and appreciate music even when they're very tiny". 

That's the benefit for students. But what do parents get out of sending their children to ballet class? Above all, ballet enables parents to become involved in the development of their child's capabilities and skills. This should be a pleasurable experience, as parents see their children achieve personal goals and grow in confidence and maturity. 

Classical ballet gives a student an all-round education. It can be enjoyed by anyone who wishes to experience the joy of movement.

Classical ballet consists of three interrelated elements - Technique, Music and Performance. Students gain a discipline of the mind and spirit as well as the body. It allows for individual expression and artistry which can be carried over into their normal lives.

 
For all students the by-products of classical ballet training are seen to:
  • developing social interaction and friendships
    •  
  • encouraging physical discipline and general body awareness and control
  • inspiring a sense of physical and mental confidence
  • encouraging good posture and bodily communication
  • understanding the relationship between music, rhythm and controlled movement
  • providing insight into art forms associated with classical ballet
  • fostering future audience appreciation

     

Such bonuses may be seen to equip young people not only in terms of classical ballet but also in terms of life skills and appetites.


RAD Children's Syllabus | Exams/Presentation Classes | RAD Homepage


©2003-2008 Balletschool, Charlottesville Virginia
This page has been accessed        times since October 1, 2003.