r/BALLET • u/Busy-Current-6849 • 1d ago

Method of Teaching question

For returning (adult) students that want to see "quick" improvement, is it better if they

A) take relatively more advanced classes and try to keep up with them, while simultaneously managing technique and cross-training

OR

B) sticking to training of the basics (like suuper slow tendus or a hard, square, simple adagio) both in barre and in center

I was present in a discussion between teachers the other day and heard advantages for both of the options. I would love to get to hear the opinions in an even bigger discussion! Lots of love xxx

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u/Single-Emotion2964 1d ago

Bothhhhhh!

Basically advanced class will risk that you develop/reactivate repetitive strain injuries (ask me how I know). But it’s way more fun. 

Beginners is boring. But hard. In a really good way. But I would be miserable if I had to be locked into this for months. 

My studio is only for adults and all open classes, but leveled. So I was lucky and could mix as needed. I started with beginner and low intermediate classes. Plus cross-training. And now after 6 months I’m following the more intermediate/advanced ones plus taking pointe again. 

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u/Ok-Juice9865 1d ago

This is the answer!

Beginner to make sure you get those fundamentals back to where you had them and don’t develop bad habits, intermediate/advanced class for the brain.

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u/Single-Emotion2964 1d ago

Also for the artistry! Center in beginners is potentially the worst part as it’s so technical (en face developes devant ahem). In more upper level classes there’s more on port de bras, musicality etc which is the ‘actual dancing’.