Dance Education Center

Class Cancelled Due To Weather – Nov. 11, 2011

dec — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 21:01:41 +0000

No classes tonight because of weather.

Ms. Olivia’s ready for another year

dec — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 12:33:17 +0000

As the summer turns into autumn, as colors change and leaves begin fall, I am reminded over and over again at how my work as a dancer and teacher has continued to change and develop over the years. We each grow and develop at our own pace; every new piece of information gained presents itself with its own set of challenges and goals to accomplish. As a teacher and communicator of the body, I love to challenge students and then see when something finally “clicks” for them or when the “light bulb turns on” and they understand in a new way. This summer I did a great deal of work on the Pilates reformer and I am so eager to share the new discoveries I made with my students. I have a passion for biology and really enjoy working to help students understand their bodies in an anatomical and kinesthetic way. I am so excited to be teaching for my third year at DEC and feel so blessed by the many students and families that I have been able to work with!

Ms. Megan is back.

dec — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 19:01:40 +0000

Welcome back everyone! I am very excited to begin my second year at DEC. The DEC family was so welcoming last year and I look forward to meeting more new faces as the year continues. I structure my classroom to be a fun but challenging environment. I strive to build a community with the students in my classes. By creating a community I hope students find an understanding, encouraging, and respectful atmosphere. The community aspect also helps each student feel they have the ability to be themselves. My favorite part of teaching dance is motivating each student to discover his/her personal, unique expression. I am also a music enthusiast and always on the search for new songs and artists to share with my classes. I can¹t wait to watch the classes¹ progress from now until showcase! I am inspired each day by all of the students’ hard work, dedication, and love for dance at DEC.

Here’s Ms. Elena

dec — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 15:59:22 +0000

Greetings all my dance friends and family! I have been teaching dance for almost ten years (yikes! that sounds like a long time…), but it’s never a dull moment. The students keep each day fresh. Asking questions is great! I love it. If I don’t know the answer, I like to ask other faculty members or google it. I try to keep each class moving as much as possible. I have a tendency toward more athletic movement and definitely love to leap! I couldn’t pick just one style of dance that is my “favorite.” It’s important to me to be to be balanced and versatile, flexible and strong. For starters I like the technical challenge of ballet, the personal expression of modern, the athleticism of jazz, the musicality of tap, and the fun of pop! One of the most satisfying parts of teaching dance is seeing the dancers’ progress. From when you’re in primary ballet and only thinking about making a diamond shape with your legs in plie, to the list of about a billion things an advanced dancer (or teacher) thinks about in the very same step. The best time of the year is performance week. I really get into the adrenaline of being in the theater. The sights! The lights! The sounds! The smells (hard work?)! Yes! I love it all.

Introducing Ms. Cassie

dec — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 13:24:49 +0000

Hello all! My name is Cassie and I have been teaching in a studio setting for 6+ years, and I am going on my 4^th year at DEC. I love working with students of all ages and abilities, and being able to be a part of their dance journey. I am so passionate about helping students realize their potentials, and providing the necessary tools for them to achieve their goals. I believe dance is a mode of expression through movement: moving efficiently, effectively, and purposefully. My goal for the classroom is to provide a safe atmosphere for students to do this, and explore the range of possibilities in their own movement. I also provide challenging exercises to push students beyond the limits that they believe they have, as well as repetitive phrases for the students to explore and go deeper into their bodies. All in all, I am here to help the students with anything they are struggling in, excelling in, or just need some advice or tips.

Courses Begin – Sept. 8th

dec — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 15:16:52 +0000

Shoe Fittings – Sept. 6

dec — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 14:57:01 +0000

Tonight from 4-7 pm there will be shoe fittings at DEC.

Starting The Year

admin — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 01:02:49 +0000

The start of a new dance season is filled with anticipation. For some, it is the first time pulling on pink tights and a leotard and for others, it’s the return to the familiar attire that makes us feel more like ourselves once again. The summer has caused dance shoes to become too small, new hairstyles challenge us to find different ways to make a bun and tight muscles yearn for a stretch. Some may feel nervous about coming into a new class and learning different steps while others feel comfort in the familiar patterns and familiar faces. Regardless, we walk into the studio and become dancers… the unique combination of athleticism and artistry that set us apart while bonding us together. We look for the moments of routine in preparing for class, warming up and class progression but we ignite at the moments of accomplishment and surprise… like the great pirouette or learning a new step. We find our passion in the challenge and sheer joy of movement. We find ourselves in the long hours, sweat and sore muscles. We persevere because the practice, accomplishment, challenge and joy make us who we are. That is what makes us dancers.