Classical ballet provides the basics for all other styles of dance. Classical ballet originated over 500 years ago in court dances and has continually developed over time. Traditionally, ballet has been a way of telling a story using music, dance and mime. Classical Ballet is a very technical style of dance that provides students with the basics of correct posture, coordination and muscle strength that can then be used in any physical activity.

At Leaps and Bounds Dance School, our ballet classes are run in a relaxed, recreational and open learning format and always include improvisation, where students are able to explore music and movement.

Jazz dance originated from African tribal dances. It has been reshaped and developed over time by the changes in music and by influences of the time. Jazz is a fun and energetic style of dance that is now mostly used in musical theatre and in stage shows. Jazz combines the technical aspects of a ballet class but tends towards more dynamic movements with faster music.

 

Funk and Hip Hop. Today jazz is influenced by pop music and has transformed once again into a range of styles including funk which is used extensively in pop music videos, and hip hop which is used extensively in R&B music videos. Hip Hop is a faster and more intricate version of funk, but both styles use current music and choreography.

 

 

 

 

Tap dancing emerged at the end of the 1800's and the beginning of the 1900's in African-American communities. It didn't take long to get a foothold in stage shows and has been a popular style ever since. Recently groups including the tap dogs, boot men and stomp have increased popularity of the style. Tap is a great style for developing musicality, rhythm, co-ordination and timing.

 

 

 

Contemporary is a style of dance that encompasses many facets of movement, continually exploring and discovering new ways of moving. Such companies as the Netherlands Danse Theatre and Chunky Move are groups that have promoted the broadness of contemporary dance. Often titled 'modern dance', contemporary uses a range of movement qualities, dynamics and music in its classes. The best way to find out what contemporary is, is to come along and try a class!

 

Kinder Dance All of our kinder dance classes provide a fun and safe environment in which 3 - 4 year old boys and girls can explore music and movement through dance games and improvisation.

These classes are not style specific but instead encompass many facets of dance in all its forms. Mostly these classes provide fun and enjoyment along side the chance to explore the wonders of dance.