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.
New 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.
The class is suitable for new beginners as well as dancers with some experience in Irish dance who wish to learn at a slower pace.
Advanced Beginners
We will practice basic technique and the already learned Beginner level dances, as well as learn the remaining Beginner level dances in soft shoes.
With heavy shoes we practice beginner hornpipe and later on St. Patricks Day traditional set dance. We will concentrate a lot on basic technique with heavy shoes.
The class is suitable for dancers who are able to execute basic movements and know least two of the Beginner level dances – typically after dancing for at least a year.
Primary
We will recap and polish Primary level dances in soft shoes (reel, slip jig) and in hard shoes (heavy jig, hornpipe).
Besides basic technique, we’ll work to perfect the combinations, jumps, and rhythms required for the Primary level and Intermediate level dances.
The class is suitable for dancers who have good familiarity with basic movements and basic technique and know several Primary level dances – typically after dancing for at least 4 years.
Intermediate / Open Championship
This is a joint class for two levels. Depending on the dancer’s level, we’ll learn the remaining Intermediate or Open Championship level dances, and work on the movements and techniques they require. Dances at this level include fast footwork, high jumps, and complicated rhythms. We’ll also work on the strength and stamina that are needed to create an illusion of lightness and effortlessness.
The class is suitable for dancers with strong basic technique, the ability to learn combinations quickly – typically after dancing for at least 5 years.
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.
