The Method
A Ballet Education with Purpose.
Through the internationally recognized Cecchetti Method of classical ballet, every stage of your dancer's journey is thoughtfully designed to build strong technique, artistry, and poise. Each level provides a clear, progressive pathway that supports your child's growth year after year. At Ballet Academy of Silicon Valley, our classes utilize the syllabus established by Cecchetti USA.
Why Dancers Choose Cecchetti
The Cecchetti Method, developed by the legendary ballet master Enrico Cecchetti, emphasizes a progressive approach to dance education that is both systematic and anatomically informed.
Strong Technical Foundations
Each level introduces new skills after the previous foundations have been mastered, creating prepared, confident dancers. Cecchetti-trained dancers are known for their versatility, ease of movement, and strong classical foundation.Holistic Development
Alongside beautiful technique, dancers develop discipline, creativity, perseverance, self-awareness, and resilience that extends far beyond the studio.Individual Growth
Every dancer progresses at their own pace while following a clear pathway designed for long-term success. Movements are designed to work with the body’s natural alignment rather than against it, promoting longevity and injury prevention.
“The Cecchetti technique was my ‘A B C’ of the ballet. Instilled in me was a vocabulary that made it possible to be not only a literate dancer, but also an articulate one.”
Examinations
As part of our Conservatory Track, dancers have the opportunity to participate in Cecchetti USA Ballet Examinations, celebrating their progress through internationally recognized achievement milestones.
Examinations are offered once each season at BASV and are conducted by a certified Cecchetti USA Examiner. In the weeks leading up to the examination, participating dancers will receive additional preparation and guidance from their teacher to help them feel confident and prepared.
Participation in examinations is optional and includes separate examination and preparation fees.
Preparing for the future.
Cecchetti USA certifications are internationally recognized achievements that reflect a dancer's commitment, discipline, and technical accomplishment.
For many dancers, these examinations become valuable additions to college applications, scholarship opportunities, dance resumes, and future artistic pursuits, while providing meaningful milestones throughout their ballet journey.
Learn more about the many benefits of participating in exams.
Who Can Participate?
Dancers enrolled in our Conservatory Track are eligible to participate in Cecchetti USA examinations beginning with Ballet Level 1. When your dancer has demonstrated the skills and confidence needed for success, their teacher will extend an invitation to participate in that season's examination.
What to Expect
Ballet exams will take place at the BASV studio and be led by one or two examiners from the Cecchetti USA Board of Examiners. Graded exams are conducted for either one or two students at a time. Examiners understand that candidates may be nervous and will do their best to create a calm, supportive environment.
Exams will begin with a brief introduction where the examiner will ask a few theory questions before continuing on to a demonstration of the barre work for the dancers’ level. The exam will continue as if it were a regular ballet class, demonstrating the majority of the syllabus exercises students have been practicing in class. Some exams include an “Unseen” portion, where the examiner will put together a chain of steps that the dancer has not seen before and will perform. Dancers in Graded exams will learn a short set dance to perform at the end of the exam.
“I believe that taking Cecchetti ballet exams can not only prepare students for a career in dance but also equips them with transferable skills and qualities that can benefit their personal and professional lives.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Cecchetti examinations required?
No. Examinations are optional and available to eligible dancers in our Conservatory Track.
When are examinations held?
BASV hosts Cecchetti USA examinations once each season with an official Cecchetti USA Examiner, usually in the spring.
How do dancers prepare?
All Conservatory Track students receive written study guides that correspond with their ballet level that include the vocabulary, theory, and principles they will be tested on in both exams and their regular class evaluations. Participating dancers receive dedicated preparation with their teacher in the weeks leading up to the examination, including a mock exam run by the BASV faculty.
Are there additional fees?
Yes. Examination and preparation fees are separate from tuition.
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