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Classes
As the skill of the dancer develops and entry into the competitive dance arena arises -the demands for both teacher and student become great. To use this limited time to an optimal level - adjustments to time slots and class groupings may be made to account for these changes and the ever changing ability and desire of the dancer. New students will start with private or semi-private lessons at my home. When allowable these students will be filtered into a group class that will be held at the Chelsea Depot. The use of the Depot, my own home and the dancer's home for lessons allow us to continue to operate on an honor system/pay as you go schedule. It is the belief of Daichiel Thistle that any child interested in highland should be able to participate no matter their means. Class fee is $5/class/student. Extenuating circumstances are always considered. We are very grateful to The Depot Association for their support and encourage our families recognize their contribution to Daichiel.
Class Structure The structure of the class varies depending on the needs of the student. Group class works as more of a "workout" and encourages competitors to develop good sportmanship, a positive attitude towards one another and a sense of being a part of a group. The smaller/private class emphasizes technique. Every attempt is made to keep dance class fun and light-hearted but as the dancer progresses. the physical and time demands increase as well. We try to approach this form of movement as athletes AND dancers. Students don't just learn specific dances, they learn HOW to dance highland style. The dances haven't changed that much over the centuries, the music hasn't either but certainly the competitive arena has. It is the competition circuit that dictates WHAT dances we learn. Goals for our Dancers Beginners - develop proper turnout, pointing, elevation. Learn the Fling, Sword, and complete the Truibhas. Reel for fun. Craig's Sister Sword for fun too! Most importantly continue to make friends and have a good time! Novice - Develop strength and flexibility; proper body alignment (especially the upper body). In time, develop even better turnout than you have at present; develop speed to proper positions; improve pointing. Get working on Hornpipe and Jig for the fun of it - also for endurance. Reel is essential this year. Most important is for you to have a blast and continue to enjoy dancing! Intermediate - Prep for Premier all this year; develop all those skills and attributes you already have - just make them even better! Laddie, Barracks, Reel & Tulloch are important dances to know. Cleaner, crisper, neater, sharper, stronger, higher - you name it! You know what you need to do - strength and flexibility come from plenty of training NOT a lesson! Increase your lessons/workouts with me to get yourself ready. Have fun, make friends, enjoy your dancing - get confident! Be SILLY!
Continue to work hard. Attend any available clinics that you can. Listen to your instructors. Review video and read, read, read. Spend much of your time breaking down Championship steps to movements and perfecting those positions. Endurance is a must! Keep in touch with your friends and try new competitions. Prepare for Regionals and then USIR! | ||||||
Chelsea dancers have afterschool class on Tuesdays at the Chelsea Depot. Private and semi-private instruction is available to serious students and new students. Anyone interested in learning highland dance should contact 
