Contemporary
Contemporary dance blends elements of many dance styles and often includes techniques of somatic practices like yoga and Pilates too. The title “Contemporary dance,” is often interchanged with "Modern dance,” and while they both share the same general description, Contemporary dance has taken hold in most dance circles as a title that feels more current and flexible. Many well-known American modern dance styles like Horton, Graham and Limón, were designed by contemporary choreographers who wanted to create dance techniques to suit the demands of their creative visions. These choreographers also borrowed techniques from Native American dance forms. Our Contemporary Faculty have varied specialities and experiences offering dancers a rich and inclusive contemporary dance education as they advance. Contemporary dancers at Barriskill are exposed to modern dance techniques including Horton, floor work, and improvisation. Dancers are invited to participate in spring recitals.
​STUDIO DIVISION
Contemporary 1 (7-10 year olds) is for beginners with no experience. Dancers are introduced to floor work, rhythm, and vocabulary.
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Contemporary 2, 3 dancers progressively increase the challenge of exercises and combinations learned in Contemporary 1.
CONSERVATORY DIVISION
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Contemporary 4, 5 (Simultaneous Ballet Highly Recommended) This intermediate-advanced class moves quicker then Studio Division classes. Dancers are expected to be comfortable moving in and out of the floor and approach each class with curiosity and willingness to try new movements. Class time focuses on specificities in technique and introduces longer combinations to challenge dancers mentally.
Contemporary 6 (Simultaneous Ballet Highly Recommended)
Students invited to join this advanced class must be able to pick up and retain new choreography quickly, as the class is very fast paced and will cover new topics every week.
Students new to BDTS should arrange a placement audition.
TWEEN/TEEN DIVISION
Teen Contemporary - Teen classes are for beginning students age 10 and older who may want to explore a new style of dance, or have no dance experience at all! Teen classes are designed so that students can learn with their peers without the difficulties of sharing a class with much younger students. Teen Division students often audition to be placed into a Conservatory level after mastering their fundamentals.
