At the Harney Academy, new students will be introduced first to a variety of soft-shoe (ghillies) dances and soon thereafter challenged with hard-shoe and figure classes. Competition attendance is very popular, but not a requirement. You and your children are welcome to come and learn the wonderful traditions of Irish step dancing. Click on the icons below to learn more!
Our Tiny Tot class is a "Mom and Me" program designed to give new students, ages 4 - 6, an introduction to the movements and rhythms of Irish dance. Through fun games and exercises, dancers learn musical timing, coordination and balance. With basic steps such as the three's, jump over and jump cross, students begin to build confidence and knowledge as well as learn what it is like to be in a class environment.
Morning and afternoon classes are offered to accommodate parent's schedules. Moms and Dads should be ready to pick up a few steps too!
During Phase I, students are introduced to soft shoe (ghillies) dances such as the "reel" or "light jig" while being coached on timing, footwork and posture. Soon thereafter, students begin to compete in local events called "feis" to further improve stage presence and monitor progress. With a strong emphasis on form during this phase, students build a solid foundation needed for more complicated steps to come.
When a student reaches the second phase, they are introduced to hard-shoe (Treble Reel & Jig, Hornpipe, St. Patrick's Day) and figure classes while developing more advanced soft-shoe dances such as the Slip-Jig. As confidence and skills develop, so does our emphasis on stamina, upper body control, and form (toe points, twisties, cross-overs) as well as learning to dance to the appropriate speed of the music. It is an exciting time for students because they are often called upon to perform at local events and shows in and around Massachusetts.
Commitment becomes essential to students during Phase III. In order to competitively differentiate themselves, students are guided through a strict regimen of advanced hard-shoe and soft-shoe classes aimed at mastering dance steps. Our teachers will often customize steps that work best with each student's individual skills and style to prepare them for Regional, National, and World level competitions. Because of their strong influence in our school, these students are coached to be mentors and leaders in the eyes of our earlier levels.
If you're looking to re-kindle old memories, re-enter the competitive circuit, or get yourself ready for an upcoming wedding, the Harney Academy can help you out. Weekly classes are offered for adults in a variety of hard-shoe, soft-shoe and figure dances starting with "the fundamentals" and progressing to more advanced steps. Most notably, our adult teams have earned top placements in many of the past Regional and National competitions. Come join the fun and enjoy the physical and emotional benefit of dancing. Call or email us today!
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