Jazz dance increases the strength, flexibility, coordination and technique of the dancer. Basic jazz technique includes isolations, leaps, turns and dance patterns.  Ballet technique is the foundation for all jazz movement.  It is strongly recommended that all jazz students take ballet classes as well.  At HSDA we teach competitive, recreational and lyrical jazz, as well as following the syllabi of the Association of International Dance Teachers.  Ages are a guideline only.

Primary Jazz – ages 7-8 (Grade 2-3)

Classes are 1 hour in length.  The beginnings of jazz technique and musicality are taught.  It is strongly recommended that students take the appropriate level ballet class to compliment this class.

Jazz Junior Lower – ages 8-9 (Grade 3-4)

Classes are 1 hour in length.  Students continue to develop their jazz technique and musicality.  It is strongly recommended that students take the appropriate level ballet class to compliment this class.

Jazz Junior Higher – ages 9-11 (Grade 4-6)

Classes are 1 hour in length.  Students continue to develop their jazz technique and musicality.  Turns, jumps, progressions and combinations are emphasized.  It is strongly recommended that students take the appropriate level ballet class to compliment this class.

Jazz Preparatory – ages 10-13 (Grade 5-8)

Classes are 1 hour in length.  Established pedagogy is introduced.  It is strongly recommended that students take the appropriate level ballet class to compliment this class.

Jazz Final Grade – ages 11+

Classes are 1.25 hours long.  This is the first of compulsory exams.

Jazz Preliminary Junior – ages 12-14 (Grade 7-9)

Classes are 1.25 hour in length.   It is strongly recommended that students take the appropriate level ballet class to compliment this class.

Jazz Preliminary – ages 12+ (Grade 7+)

Classes are 1 hour in length.  It is strongly recommended that students take the appropriate level ballet class to compliment this class.

Teen Jazz – ages 13+

Classes are 1 hour in length.  These classes are recreational classes.  Students will learn the elements of jazz dance.

Jazz Technique – ages 12+

Classes are 1 hour – 1.5 hours in length.  This is a supporting class for all dance disciplines, and specifically for students enrolled in competitive classes.  This will help with co-ordination, performance quality, strength, flexibility & stamina.

Jazz Competitive levels 1 – 6, Lyrical Competitive levels 1-4

These classes are 30 to 45 minutes in duration.  Students must audition for these classes.  Only dance choreography for competition is worked on.