ENCORE BALLET
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Classical Ballet
Classical ballet provides a strong foundation for anyone wishing to dance and is a valuable addition to all other dance genres. It teaches strength, grace, discipline, agility and musicality; classes boost self-esteem and develop confidence, teamwork and commitment. We follow the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Grade and Vocational Ballet syllabus which offers a quality learning experience for all ages and the flexibility to study for different types of exams to suit each student. Exams are not mandatory, however we believe in giving students the opportunity to express themselves, realise their talents and feel a sense of achievement through the challenge of an exam goal.
Classes and Training
3 - 4 year olds:
Classes are built on the basic foundations of ballet technique and combined with storytelling, creative movement and lots of imagination. Key gross motor skills such as balance, co-ordination and core strength which are so important for a child's physical development, are used throughout the lessons. Familiar themes and the use of a variety of props keep the children engaged, active and makes learning dance concepts fun. Students are exposed to a whole range of musical styles which develops their ability to respond to music and perform with different movement qualities.
Pre-Primary - Primary:
Classes start to become more structured but movement skills are still performed and perfected with lots of imagery, fun props and to a wide variety of music. RAD Class awards and Exams may be taken at these levels if we feel the student is ready and will benefit from the experience.
Grades 1-8:
Official ballet terminology is gradually introduced through the grades with a greater emphasis on technique and performance qualities as the levels increase. Free work is regularly taught alongside the syllabus work to maintain the students’ ability to perform any combinations of steps and to ensure classes are inspiring and fun. RAD Class awards, Exams and Solo Performance Exams are offered for grades 1-5 and Exams for the higher grades 6-8.
Skills Classes Levels 1-2:
Lessons focus on classical ballet technical elements to enhance each student’s level of performance. Classes are designed and choreographed by Ms. Lisa, drawing on her background at the Royal Ballet School and many years of teaching experience. These lessons are not syllabus based, however they are structured to compliment a student’s progression through graded and vocational levels.
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Intermediate Foundation to Advanced 2:
The vocational exams include pointe work and are designed for students who wish to take ballet to the highest level possible. Some students may hope to progress on to a career in the dance industry but even for those who will stick to academic subjects, the life skills gained by studying and achieving at these levels are of huge value.
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Open Ballet:
A non-syllabus class for higher grades/vocational level students which will focus on different aspects of classical ballet training each week. A fun and creative lesson to energise, challenge and inspire.
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Whether you choose an exam or non-exam route, the ethos of the school is to provide a happy, friendly, professional and focused environment in which students will enjoy learning and be inspired to achieve results of the highest possible standards.
Open Classes and Performances
Open Classes:
Parents, grandparents, siblings and helpers are all welcome to view our classes during parents watching week, usually held in the penultimate lesson of the term. This is an excellent chance to see how your child is progressing and show support for their learning journey. Please note that watching week will not take place during performance terms.
Performances:
To build on skills learnt in the studio and ballet vocabulary which is perfected for exams, we aim to offer performance opportunities to students so that they may have a well rounded training. Some children achieve their maximum potential in class and in preparation for examinations; others thrive on rehearsals leading to performances on stage. Students from Pre-Primary upwards will have the chance to take part in our productions. 3 and 4 year olds may also be invited if we feel the group will cope with the rehearsal and performance process.
Private Tuition
Private lessons are offered through EncoreBallet; these may be arranged on a regular basis or in the lead up to exams. Please contact us for further details.
Terms and Conditions
Photo/Video Waiver
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I acknowledge and consent to the use, publication and reproduction of photographs and/or videos of my child by EncoreBallet for the purpose of advertising, media publicity or general display. I agree that the use, publication and reproduction of photographs and/or videos may occur in any medium, including but not limited to promotional material such as newspapers, magazines and brochures, or through an online presence such as the school website, online ads or social media outlets (Instagram or the EncoreBallet Facebook page)
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If you do not wish your child’s photograph/video to be in the public domain, please advise EncoreBallet immediately
Liability Waiver
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I hereby declare that I have enrolled my child with EncoreBallet with the full awareness that a ballet class/rehearsal/performance requires physical exertion and that my child is physically fit with no medical condition which would prevent his/her full participation. I agree to take full responsibility for any risks, injuries or damages known or unknown which might incur as a result of participating in a class/rehearsal/performance. I knowingly and voluntarily waive any claim I might have against Encoreballet, any of its instructors or volunteers, or the venue from any and all injury and damage that my child may sustain before, during or after as a result of participating in a class/rehearsal/performance.
Admissions
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Term fees for classes at the Hong Kong Cricket Club are payable in advance. Applications should be sent directly to the club; members will be charged through their monthly bill, non-members by arrangement with the club.
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Invoices for lessons at Bamboo Grove and Ap Lei Chau are payable in advance and will be issued by EncoreBallet. Application forms should be filled in by the person responsible for paying the fees. Students will remain on the register for any subsequent terms unless notice is given that they wish to be withdrawn.
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'Early Bird' discounts for Bamboo Grove classes are for the whole term's fees paid in full before term commences.
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Ideally students should start at the beginning of the term so that they make steady progress with the rest of their group. If permission is granted to join part way through the term, fees will be adjusted accordingly.
Refunds
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All course dates for the term should be carefully noted; if your child will be absent for any classes, advance notice would be appreciated to assist with lesson planning. In the event of students’ absence, classes are non-refundable.
Cancellations due to adverse weather conditions
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All classes will automatically be cancelled if there is a Black Rain Warning/Typhoon Signal 8 or higher. Forced government closures due to the weather are circumstances beyond our control, however all efforts will be made to offer a make-up lesson as time permits.
Uniform
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Discipline is integral to a dancer’s training and this should extend to the way a dancer presents him or herself. We ask that students attend classes in the correct uniform with an appropriate hairstyle which will not distract from their movements. A separate uniform list is available with details of how to obtain all items
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No jewellery or watches are to be worn in class for health and safety reasons.