This is a brief overview of the curriculum offered by Martin Dance Studio at The Dixie. For more information, please visit the Martin Dance Studio Web site.

Mission Statement

Self-confidence, personality-development, grace, fitness and fun are only some of the advantages of good dance training.

It is our intent to provide encouragement and challenge to the student in a positive and educational environment.

Class sizes range from 5 - 15 students.

We pledge to take a personal approach and interest in enhancing the dance experience of every student.

It is our goal that students enjoy dance while learning proper technique and developing poise, confidence, coordination and rhythm.

The Martin Dance Studio accepts girls from the age of 3 years and up, offering a wide variety of classes from beginner to advanced levels.

Pre-School: 3 - 5 years old
Our Pre-School classes emphasize the development of basic coordination, rhythm, grace and repetition incorporating stretching, simple acrobatic exercises, and basic dance steps in a playful manner. Our classes are filled with fun and laughter. The emphasis is that dance is to enjoy.

Unlike the intellectual learning experiences in later school life, the musical, rhythmic experiences during early childhood are senso-motoric learning experiences and are considered extremely important for proper development during all facets of pre-school life. Among our teaching techniques, we use imaginative stories and songs to develop creativity and memory, various props like ribbon sticks for exploring creative movement, hand eye coordination, grace and use of arms. Other props in combination with mat exercises are used to build muscle strength, spatial awareness and confidence. For more information, please request our Pre-School brochure.

Ballet. By the age of 5, children can begin “serious” dance classes. We follow the guidelines of The National Dance Association suggesting class sizes of 7-15 students to be taught for 45-60 minutes. We also strictly enforce a dress code.

In our ballet classes, students will learn proper posture, correct terminology and music appreciation as they gain strength, discipline and grace. Cecchetti and Vaganova methods of training are used.

Pointe (ballet dancing on toe) classes are offered to students who have gained sufficient strength through proper training, well-developed body coordination and proper skeletal alignment. We do not recommend pointe work before the age of 11.

Tap is the most important dance element of the American Musical. Our students will explore the complex interactions of rhythm, sound and movement to achieve a sense of rhythm and “groove” for this truly American artform.

Jazz forms the basis for musical dance. Our classes offer different styles and an opportunity for students to become creative as they explore traditional and modern avenues.

All classes will include technique lessons encompassing stretching and body conditioning exercises. These exercises are designed to augment and support each student's endeavor to gain strength and a broader knowledge of dance.