DAPRs Solo and Duo Information

   Solos performed for festivals and competitions are a valuable experience for any dancer; their technique is improved, it builds self-confidence as a performer, and they have the advantage of adjudications by professionals in each discipline.

   We feel that every student in the competitive program should want to improve as dancer and performer; therefore every student in the competitive program should have at least one solo choreographed to enter in a festival or competition. Soloists received private classes with a teacher, get extra dance rehearsal times and tend to work harder in order to attain the standard required for competitions. We have found that the dancers enjoy the challenge of perfecting a dance and love the excitement and fun of joining other solo performers at festivals and competitions. We want this to be a rewarding experience for all participants, therefore any student who wants a solo or duet choreographed must be 6 and up and be taking at least 2 classes a week. Students age 4-6 may have a set dance choreographed. Set dances are learned by multiple students, but are performed individually at festivals.

Solos/Duets include four choreography classes, two cleanup classes, and a CD of the child's dance music.
Set Dances vary according to the number of the students learning the number.
Any additional classes will be billed at the regular private class rate.
It is the parents' responsibility to find a suitable costume, if you require assistance Teresa will be glad to help.
It is the student's responsibility to practice, so that the choreography is remembered. They are allowed to use the small studios, provided they are available (check the calendar at the Hall), to practice free of charge.
Parents may have to give a few gentle reminders about practice.
It is important that each student has two copies, on tape/CD, of their music. One copy is for practice purposes and the other is strictly for performances.
It is the parent's responsibility to register their child in festivals and competitions. The Academy does not want to assume the responsibility of a missed entry form.
If you are having difficulties filling out the form for festivals and competitions, Teresa will advise.
The teachers at the Academy choreograph most of the solos and duets, but out-of-town teachers are hired depending on the number of solos and duets requested by the students.
If you are not sure if your child is ready for a solo or duet please ask the child's teacher.
If your child is 10 and under and would like to do a duet, it works out better for practice purposes if they are friends that play together and are able to practice at each others houses or by themselves at the studio. Otherwise it is frustrating and difficult for the students.
Solos that are not properly prepared may not be allowed to perform. This is to ensure that solos remain a positive experience for all students.
If you have a preference for a particular teacher, please specify and we will try to accommodate you. We are familiar with the student�s ability, style and personality so we always try to assign students to the teacher (local or out-of-town) who we feel will offer the greatest benefit to the dancer.

   The Academy likes to get started on solos and duets right away, so the students will have plenty of time to practice and perfect their dance.