Jazz at LABA is taught in an open setting according to the particular teacher's style. The emphasis is on increasing flexibility, progressions (turning, jumping across the floor), style and age appropriate choreography. Classes and choreography also focus on patterns and working as a group.

Modern/Contemporary is the name given to a group of 20th century concert dance forms. It is a collection of systems and methods developed from Modern and Postmodern dance, thus contemporary dance is not a specifc dance technique. Contemporary dance principles include: centering, alignment, gravity, breath, contraction, release, fall and recovery, suspension, balance and off-balance, tension and relaxation, opposition and emotion.

Tap is taught in a Broadway traditional and rhythm tap styles. Most classes work across the floor, do small combinations of joining the sounds together (the most important element of tap) and work on becoming rhythmical. Tap Classes also incorporate improvisation, and choreography.

Hip Hop and street dance is used to describe a dance style that evolved outside the dance studio. It is improvisational and social in nature, encouraging interaction and contact with the spectators and other dancers. Hip Hop is a fun activity to participate in with a friend, a great form of exercise and our teachers will teach you the current and most up to date styles of this ever changing danceform.

Vocal - students work on developing correct vocal technique, enjoy preparing classical, pop or Broadway material, and build confidence by performing in a small group setting.

Students do not have to be in a ballet class to participate in the Contemporary Dance Program.

Jazz

Required Dress:
Jazz pants, capri pants, bike shorts, form-fitting t-shirts or leotard of your choice and tan slip-on jazz shoe (Bloch S0401).  Street clothing i.e. jeans, tennis shoes or overly revealing clothing is not permitted. ONLY TAN JAZZ SHOES WILL PERMITTED IN CLASS.  NO BLACK!