CenterStage Performing Arts Academy is the only studio in Middle Tennessee that is certified to teach the Cecchetti method. The Cecchetti curriculum sets itself apart by taking care of a dancers body and following the "laws of anatomy." Cecchetti dancers develop "balance, poise, strength, elevation, elasticity, “ballon”, etc. It is classic in its purity and clear-cut style." Cecchetti students who go on to work professionally adapt to other styles of ballet quickly. 

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"The Cecchetti Council of America holds examinations in classical ballet for students and teachers who are training in the Cecchetti method. The Syllabus tests the technical and artistic accomplishments of student candidates who have been prepared by member teachers. It offers students an opportunity to demonstrate their technical ability and understanding of the material. Each level provides attainable goals that build self-confidence in their developmental progress and successful achievements." Currently, CenterStage has certified instructors in Grades I-IV.

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In addition to our training and examinations, ballet students in our program have the opportunity to perform in our year end ballet recital and take part in our Nutcracker feature (which is only open to CenterStage Academy of Ballet students) in our Christmas show, Deck the Halls.

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CenterStage Academy of Ballet also offers a Men's Ballet class and a Partnering Class for students in our 9 & 10 Levels.

Ballet Levels

Early Childhood Development

"The CCA offers three pre-syllabus examinations for younger children, ages 5 – 9, that will develop poise and musicality in a fun and creative environment. The Primary One, Two, and Three syllabus instills the love of dance and allows for creative expression. The teacher directs and leads the students during the examination." Students in our Ballet 4 and Ballet 5 cover the Primary One and Two syllabi. Students in our Level 6 classes cover Primary Three.

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Grade I and II Syllabus

"For students on a more serious track, the two lower student grades will develop proper placement of torso, hips, and legs without exceeding anatomical limitations. The coordination of arms and head are developed with a concentration on smooth transitions throughout the exercises." Students in our Middle/High School Ballet, Intermediate Middle/High School Ballet, Ballet 7, and Ballet 8B study the Grade I syllabus. Ballet 8A studies the Grade II syllabus.

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Grade III and IV Syllabus

"A more mature sense of musicality and quality of movement is emphasized in the third and fourth levels. Students develop strength and stability in the demonstration of the pirouettes and grand allegro. Suppleness and smooth graceful movements are developed in these levels along with the coordination of head, arms, legs, and body. Students present a one-minute dance for the Grade IV examination demonstrating the ability to perform through unset movements. The dance provides teachers the opportunity to help develop the student’s awareness of choreographic concepts." Students in our Ballet 9 cohort study Grade III and students in Ballet 10 study Grade IV.

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Pointe

Every ballerina's dream! As students are nearing their Grade 1 examination, ballerinas have the option to enroll in a pre-pointe class. The pre-pointe class is a year of technique focusing specifically on building the body to perform on pointe. Whether the student is ready for pointe is determined by CenterStage's Ballet faculty via an assessment. Students who demonstrate strength in technique will be approved for a Pointe class in the following season.

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To join CenterStage Academy of Ballet please email us!