What's the point of Ballet Exams?
Classical ballet is a highly technical, yet artistic and beautiful dance form that requires years of training and practice to master. As such, many ballet studios and institutions offer ballet exams as a way to assess the progress and proficiency of the dancers. Ballet exams are important for many reasons, and in this blog, we will explore why they are so vital for young and aspiring ballet dancers. Ballet exams allows our dancers to dive deeper into the world of dance and develops improved physical training, accountability, goal setting, respect, disciple, self-esteem, confidence, and recognition.
It might help to break up your introduction into 2 or 3 main points, so it’s easy for your readers to follow. Each paragraph or two should focus on one point.
Accountability & Goal Setting
Classical ballet exams give our young aspiring dancers a goal to work towards and allows them to achieve it. But what our dancers need to do to get to that goal is something not easily learnt from their academic schooling. By using an international syllabus (Australian Teachers of Dancing), the exam process allows our dancers to be graded by an external examiner and with this they are graded against an international standard of technique rather than the teacher’s personal likes.
Ballet exams provide a structure and an objective way to assess a dancer’s technique, artistry, and overall ability. This can be incredibly motivating for dancers, as it gives them a clear goal to work towards and a sense of achievement when they successfully pass an exam.
Respect & Discipline
It is no secret that when we are preparing for our ballet exams there is a shift in mindset to work harder than before. Dancers should attend classes on time and come prepared in proper ballet attire and hair neatly in a ballet bun as they are working towards a specific goal. With this our dancers earn a deep respect for their chosen art form, for their teachers and, most importantly, for themselves. And with years of this “can do” attitude and respect, discipline is adapted and carried out into adult life.
Self-Esteem & Confidence
Aspiring dancers who partake in ballet exams gain a great sense of confidence and self-esteem, not only in their ballet training but also in their personal lives. Ballet exams can allow dancers to grow in public speaking and present themselves in a professional manner, coming in handy when it is time for university or job interviews. Ballet exams highlight the importance of showing up and putting in the work in order to succeed, proving that it is not possible to just “wing it”.
Recognition
As dancers progress to higher examination levels, they receive a certificate of completion with grading. But what can be done with the certificates after completion? Many higher institutions and professional dance companies require proof of prior ballet or dance training before acceptance and in most cases an audition as well. This is where your certificates will come in handy. All ballet associations are recognised by higher institutions and professional dance companies, and with the certificates of grade completion you are already one step closer to your dream goal. All that is left now is to ace your audition by using everything you have learnt in the dance studio!
In conclusion, for young and aspiring classical ballet dancers, participating in ballet exams is a crucial part of their training. It provides a clear benchmark for progress, ensures consistency in training, and leads to self-confidence that will be carried with them throughout their life.
See you next time at the barre.
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