TTP Academy & MindFul Movement
About
I have been teaching for 30 years, and recently left the studio setting to create a new way to offer dance.
I am the director of a group of dance educators dedicated to offering academy style training to students of all ages. We do this by offering our award-winning programs to community centers, which allows us to reduce our fees and reach more of the communities we serve.
We teach the "whole child" using Arts, Science, Health, Culture, and Knowledge and instruct in a responsible, professional manner, working individually with every student, whether in a class, or privately. We also use positive reinforcement and team work, and choose performance and dance / theatre experiences rather than focusing on competition.
The chance to share my passion for dance and the performing arts, and the opportunity to mentor young women, and men, teaching them that perseverance and hard work pay off.
I also enjoy developping creative thinkers and movers, who will use these skills as they move forward in life. And offering a creatively outlet through productions, training, and dance / performance experiences.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Evaluations differ depending on age, experience, and previous training.
We evaluate the flexibility, strength, and technique of a student using established protocols, based on age.
We ask about prior training and experiences, what the student / parent liked and about the previous experience, and what they felt could be improved. Then we talk honestly about their goals and aspirations.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Over 40 years in dance, including Classical Russian Ballet, various forms of Ethnic dance, the study of movement, anatomy, and physiology, and continuing studies with the National Dance Educations Organization.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
For our academy level classes, the fees currently range from $10 to $14 per class in most areas. These classes run from September to May, with an annual recital. Summer studies are also offered, and required for certtain levels of ballet.
For our recreational classes the fees range from $8 to $10 per class and are offered in 10-week sessions.
How did you get started teaching?
I was asked to manage and teach at a branch of a school in which I was studying. I loved sharing my knowledge and passion for dance! Having young children at the time, I established a new school and have been teaching since.
What types of students have you worked with?
Age 6 months to the 90's and all ability levels. I have experience working with special populations, and we have helped coach a young lady in gymnastics, who went on to win numerous medals in the national competition. One of our dancers for 10 years, did a solo in her senior year. It has been so very rewarding and exciting.
I am now working with all ages, but focusing on infants and 50+, using "Brain Dance" or cognitive-centered dance.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Having students return after leaving for a short time to explore elsewhere.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Be sure you connect with the teacher and that they are knowledgeable in the areas in which you are interested. If they ask you to do things your are uncomfortable with, they are not the right teacher for you.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What their true goals are and how quickly they want to ahieve them.
Do they want a class setting, or private lessons.
What they feel are their strengths and weaknesses.
What they liked, and did not like, about their past experiences.