Class descriptions - Helsinki
Class names correspond to competition levels from Primary level upwards.
The following guidelines can be used to help find the right class(es).
- Competitive dancers & dancers taking Grade Exams: It is highly recommended that dancers attend classes at all levels where they have dances at. Dancers are required to attend weekly classes regularly, as well as TCRG workshops organized by the dance school, in order to obtain a competition permit.
- Non-competing dancers are welcome to all classes, and for them, moving from one level to the next is guided by development of technique and learning of the dances.
Competing in our dance school is completely voluntary.
For new dancers please contact inspiralhelsinki@gmail.com if unsure about the appropriate level/class. You can also test two levels with trial class fee.
New Beginners - Advanced Beginners
We will go through the basics of Irish dance and learn Beginner dances, which include the soft shoe dances reel, light jig, single jig, and slip jig, and the heavy shoe dances heavy jig and hornpipe. In addition to learning the steps, attention is paid on learning the correct technique and gaining control of legs and feet.
We’ll work on, e.g., turning out and crossing the legs, staying high on the toes, and pointing the feet. Overall carriage is also worked on from the beginning with the aim of developing the still upper body which is characteristic of Irish dance.
This is a joint class for new beginners and those who have danced approximately 1 – 2 years. The class is also suitable for more experienced dancers who want to refine their basic technique.
Primary
This class is suitable for dancers who have good knowledge of the fundamental movements and technique of Irish dance in both soft shoes and hard shoes. The class focuses on developing the technique required at the Primary level and learning the dances from this level.
The class is suitable for anyone who is currently learning Primary-level dances or already has some experience with them—typically dancers with around 3 years or more of Irish dance experience.
Intermediate
This class is designed for dancers with a strong technical foundation, a good knowledge of Primary-level dances, and the ability to learn Intermediate-level choreography—typically dancers with at least 5 years of experience.
At this level, we focus on Intermediate-level technique and learn the dances required for the Intermediate level. The class is also suitable for dancers who already know some Intermediate steps but would like to further refine their movements and technique.
Preliminary - Open Championship
This class focuses on Open-level dances and more advanced technical skills. Dancers will learn an Open set dance appropriate to their individual skill level. Time permitting, we will also continue refining Intermediate-level dances.
The class is intended for dancers competing at the Preliminary or Open Championship level, or those of an equivalent standard. Learning Open-level dances should be a relevant next step in your development; you should already have at least one dance at Open level or be capable of learning choreography at this level.
If you are transitioning to Open level, you should have at least one hard shoe dance and one soft shoe dance at Intermediate level performed confidently and to a high standard.
Children
The class is aimed at children aged 5-10 years with no significant experience in Irish dance.
We will go through the basics of Irish dance through play and learn Beginner level dances.
For children outside the age range, or who have done Irish dance before, please contact us to find the most suitable class: inspiralhelsinki@gmail.com
Contact
Contact us by email at inspiralhelsinki@gmail.com
We are happy to help you to choose a class best suited for you by email and during the first classes of the term. If necessary, registrations can be transferred to another class
(with teacher’s permission).
Please note that our teaching is constantly progressing. If you join in the middle of the season, it is recommended that you contact the us before enrolling.
