Class Divisions & Age Guidelines

The Conservatory is comprised of two distinct divisions:

·      A uniquely designed Preparatory Program that prepares young students to enter the more demanding levels of ballet training, or use the solid foundation they have received to explore other dance and performance alternatives

·      The Pre-Professional Division consisting of carefully graduated pre-professional Vaganova levels of classical and contemporary ballet training

All divisions will be concentrated upon equally by the Conservatory. In addition, all students will have the distinct opportunity to participate in professional productions.

The curriculum for each level is designed by the Artistic Faculty in a unique and specific way for children to progress in a safe and healthy environment, while also making sure that the program truly reflects and mirrors the Vaganova method of training, and to keep from making too much of a shift for the child to adapt to within the next level’s specific curriculum. Class hours will be age-appropriate, and will be based on the child’s specific level and development in accordance with the Vaganova method. A child’s dance education and level placement at IBC is based on many factors (age, muscle and bone development, mental and social maturity, work ethic, years trained in ballet- and specifically in the Vaganova method, potential, and more).  The chart below indicates general age guidelines-- NOT concrete criteria-- for students beginning their training at IBC in Preparatory 1 until the time they graduate in Pre-Professional Level 8. Please contact the Admissions Director for more details.

Preparatory Division

Preparatory 1- Ages 3 and 4 (2 hours per week)

Preparatory 2- Ages 5 and 6 (2 hours per week)

Preparatory 3- Age 7-8 (2 hours per week)

Preparatory 4- Age 8-9 (2 hours per week)

Pre-Professional Division (Vaganova Levels 1-8)

Level 1- Ages 9-10 (4 hours per week)

Level 2- Ages 10-11 (6 hours per week)

Level 3- Ages 11-12 (9 hours per week)

Level 4- Ages 12-13 (12 hours per week)

Level 5- Ages 13-14 (15 hours per week)

Level 6- Ages 14-15 (18 hours per week)

Level 7- Ages 15-16-17 (18 hours per week)

Level 8- Ages 16-17-18 (18 hours per week)