Carlsbad Performing Arts Academy

Little dancers experiencing class for the first time is one of the most exciting moments at CPAA. Our combo classes provide a solid introduction into the world of dance in a playful, encouraging environment! Classes focus on the basic physical elements of space and how we relate to it, basic loco motor and non-loco motor movements, musical awareness, opposite directions, pathways, and elementary positions & movements and technical foundation of ballet and tap In addition to these physical elements, we integrate the intellectual concepts of self-awareness, teamwork, creative expression, imagination, and basic body health awareness. Educators now know that training young children in the above concepts lays a strong foundation for the later development of reading, mathematics and other educational skills. Early dance training is great preparation for all athletic activities.

Jazz is one of the most popluar forms of dance for a dancer to train in, and experience. This art form tends to appeals many dancers due to its energy, variety, and vitality. Jazz classes explore both contemporary and classic jazz elements that draws inspiration from a wide range of music including today's top hits to jazz, swing, blues, soul and funk. All Jazz classes follow a specific technique & CPAA syllabus designed to build strong dancers who understand where the roots of jazz come from, allowing them to grow into the contemporary realm of jazz while maintaining the integrating of the art. Classes begin with a warm-up to develop strength, flexibility, correct alignment and coordination, followed by progressions across the floor, and culminates in extended dance combinations. The movement explores a range of styles in both lyrical and percussive disciplines with a focus on jazz elements such as isolations, swing, and rhythm. The goal is to develop dancers who are expressive, dynamic, musical and passionate.

Ballet Technique classes (for students age 6 and up) are the foundation for training at the CPAA and focus on developing a solid ballet technique with emphasis on understanding correct body placement, proper use of turn out, coordination of the upper body (epaulement), and use of arms (port de bras). CPAA syllabus exposes students to aspects of traditional Vaganova (Russian), Cecchetti (Italian), and American techniques. Class begins with work at the barre to build strength and coordination, followed by center exercises, culminating in a grand allegro combination or variation. Clear explanations of exercises and theory help students use the ballet vocabulary in a simple, practical way that leads to increased technical understanding, healthy physical development, and lifelong enjoyment. Students 11 and older with strong ballet technique, sufficient core and ankle strength, and a teacher's recommendation go on to study 'en pointe'.