BAMO Class Descriptions

Classical Ballet
Levels A, B, C, D, Adult
Ballet is the foundation of all dance forms. At BAMO, it is our passion and cornerstone—essential to developing technically proficient, artisticatlly expressive dancers. Ballet builds discipline, body awareness, musicality, and attention to detail. It teaches life skills that transcend the studio, preparing students for excellence whether they pursue the stage or the boardroom. 

Ms. Grapes and Mr. Rosario have created a thoughtfully blended curriculum that synthesizes the Bournonville, French, Vaganova, and Balanchine techniques—resulting in a well-rounded, highly versatile "American ballet dancer." This methodology produces dancers who are technically strong, musically intelligent, and adaptable to any choreographic style or professional setting.

Body Conditioning
All Levels (grouped I & II)
Body Conditioning classes integrate techniques from Pilates, yoga, and functional strength training to support the physical demands of dance. Core strength, flexibility, balance, and muscular endurance are targeted to improve alignment, injury prevention, and overall stamina. Some lessons may incorporate cardiovascular training to enhance fitness and support performance endurance.

Character
Levels A, B
Character dance is a stylized form of classical dance based on traditional folk and national dances from across Europe. Adapted for the theater, it sharpens a dancer’s sense of rhythm, coordination, and dramatic expression. It also develops musical sensitivity and strong épaulement—essential for classical performance.
At BAMO, we believe the contemporary journey begins with character work. Introducing students to grounded, stylized movement at a young age helps preserve alignment, support healthy technique, and prepare dancers for more complex modern work down the line.

Contemporary
Levels B, C, D
Contemporary dance blends the precision of classical ballet with the expressive freedom of modern movement. Emphasizing fluidity, floorwork, and emotional storytelling, it encourages dancers to explore abstract ideas and push the boundaries of form.
We introduce contemporary training in the upper levels only—once dancers have established a strong technical foundation and an acute understanding of alignment, control, and placement. This ensures artistic exploration without compromising classical form.

Flamenco
Level C, D, Adult
Flamenco is a powerful and expressive dance tradition from southern Spain that fuses intricate footwork, percussive rhythms, and passionate storytelling. Due to the complexity in technique and musicality, dancers that have completed their character classes (Level A,B and C) are now able to explore a new level of folk dance with precises technique and placement. Accompanied by Spanish guitar and palmas (hand clapping), Flamenco develops musicality, coordination, and stage presence—challenging dancers to express intensity and grace simultaneously.

Pas de Deux
Levels C, D
Pas de Deux (partnering) is an advanced component of classical ballet where dancers learn to move harmoniously with a partner. These classes build trust, timing, and physical awareness through turns, lifts, and shared movement. Partnering is a cornerstone of classical repertory and is essential for dancers aspiring to professional careers.

Pointe
Levels C, D
Pointe class is dedicated to the technique and artistry of dancing on the tips of the toes. Building upon a strong classical foundation, students work to strengthen their feet, refine alignment, and develop fluidity and control in their pointework. Proper care and use of pointe shoes is also emphasized to ensure safety and longevity.

Pre-Ballet I
Age 4 by 9/1/25
A joyful introduction to the structure and artistry of dance. This class builds basic ballet movement, creative expression, musicality, and listening skills in a fun and nurturing environment. Includes 45 minutes of ballet and 30 minutes of tap to reinforce rhythm and coordination.

Pre-Ballet II
Age 5-6 by 9/1/25
Designed for dancers ready for more structure and challenge, this class builds on the fundamentals of Pre-Ballet I. Students continue developing ballet vocabulary, classroom etiquette, coordination, and musicality. Tap remains a key component, reinforcing timing and rhythm.  Includes 45 minutes of ballet and 30 minutes of weekly alternating tap and jazz.

Pre-Pointe
Level B
Pre-Pointe is a preparatory class designed to safely transition students toward pointe work. This class strengthens the ankles, feet, core, and turnout while increasing flexibility and balance. Dancers also develop spatial awareness and proper alignment—crucial for success en pointe.

Recreational Ballet
Ages 7+
Recreational Ballet provides a joyful and accessible introduction to classical ballet in a relaxed, nonjudgmental setting. Dancers are guided through the fundamental positions, vocabulary, and posture of ballet at a pace that promotes confidence and curiosity. This class is ideal for students who are exploring dance for the first time or simply want to enjoy movement without the pressures of a formal training program.

Recreational Jazz with Stretch
Ages 7+
Recreational Jazz with Stretch is an upbeat and fun class that introduces young dancers to jazz fundamentals while emphasizing flexibility and physical confidence. Students will explore energetic movements, rhythmic footwork, and expressive choreography, balanced with stretching exercises to enhance mobility and prevent injury. This class promotes coordination, creativity, and the joy of self-expression through dance.

Variations
Level D
Variations class introduces solo repertoire from classical and neoclassical ballets. Dancers study celebrated solos such as those from Sleeping Beauty, Giselle, and Don Quixote, gaining experience in style, artistry, and stagecraft. These classes build confidence, performance readiness, and a deeper understanding of ballet’s rich heritage.