Sample Class Schedule
The professional division at MCPA is a rigorous training program, and has been structured so students achieve the high level of technical aptitude needed by graduation to gain acceptance to a top university program, or perhaps take on an apprentice or training position with a ballet or contemporary dance company. Students in the division have the following weekly class requirements:
Preparatory Level (approx age 8-10)
3 ninety minute ballet classes per week
Level 4 (approx age 11-13)
4 ninety min ballet classes and two 30-45 minute pointe classes per week
Level 3 (approx age 12-14)
5 ninety min ballet classes & 3 sixty minute pointe classes per week
Level 2 (approx age 14-16)
5 ninety min ballet classes & 3 sixty minute pointe classes per week
Level 1 (approx age 16-18)
5 ninety min ballet classes & 3 sixty minute pointe classes per week
Rehearsals for performances are held outside of class time, typically on the weekends.
MCPA students can also take a full contemporary class schedule, including 2 ninety minute jazz classes, and 1 ninety minute modern class per week. Again, rehearsals are held outside of class time.
Once students reach Level 3, they are encouraged to audition for Summer Intensives at schools such as ABT, Boston Ballet, or SAB. By age 15-16 they should be going away for a few weeks each summer to start to get a feel for the companies involved with these schools and supplement their MCPA training.
Students in the Professional Division have exams every year in the spring, where they present a class in front of the faculty. They also have an extensive written exam, covering vocabulary, ballet history, summaries of classical works, and more, similar to a college level exam.
Counseling begins once students enter high school to discuss career options, summer intensive choices, college opportunities, etc. Staff also help with taking photos, preparing pieces for auditions, working on combinations for DVD auditions, and recording/copying DVD's as well. There is a full support staff for students on a professional track, to help them make choices that are best for them, whether they choose a ballet or contemporary focus.
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