Classes
MacLeod School of Highland Dance is an inclusive environment where all dancers are encouraged to improve and thrive at their own pace. Highland Dancing offers both competitive and performance opportunities for a variety of levels. All MacLeod dancers are encouraged to participate in performance opportunities, and are able to compete in Highland Dancing when they are confident in the dances required. Members of MacLeod School of Highland Dance are able to participate in SDTA Medal Examinations, where dancers learn and practice set routines, dances and steps for an adjudicator who provides helpful feedback and dancers receive awards and certificates directly from Scotland for their accomplishments.
New Primary
(Ages 3-6)
New dancers will learn the basics of dance and music- including counting to eight, clapping and jumping, jumping to music, hopping in different directions and using different parts of their feet and movement. Dancers will learn to bow, the basics of a pas de bas and high cuts and spring points. We use a combination of high energy movements and music to keep classes energetic and fun, shake out some sillies and make some friends!
Returning Primary
(Ages 4-6)
Dancers will build off their first session of skills, adding the ability to count and clap to sixteen, do pas de bas and high cuts to music and technique for the Highland Fling and Sword Dance. Dancers who wish to enter competitions are able to compete in pas de bas, pas de bas and high cuts, the Highland Fling and the Sword dance; or a combination of those dances depending on current ability.
New Beginner
(Ages 6+)
Dancers with experience and a grasp on the Highland Fling, Sword Dance, Seann Truibhas, Lilt and/or Flora. More awareness on the technique required to improve these dances. When a dancer turns 7 they are considered a beginner dancer in competition, and will compete in a combination of these dances when they are ready for competition.
Returning Beginner
(Ages 6+)
Dancers with experience and a grasp on the Highland Fling, Sword Dance, Seann Truibhas, Lilt and/or Flora. More awareness on the technique required to improve these dances. When a dancer turns 7 they are considered a beginner dancer in competition, and will compete in a combination of these dances when they are ready for competition.
Novice
Dancers who have reached the Novice level in competition by gaining 6 "stamps" (1st, 2nd or 3rd place in 6 different competitions in beginner). Dancers will continue to focus on technique and improving dances already known, and begin working on the Reel, Barracks, Highland Laddie, Irish Jig and Sailors Hornpipe. Non-competitive dancers who are confident in the beginner dances may fall into this category of classes.
Intermediate
Dancers who have reached the Intermediate level in competition by gaining 6 "stamps" (1st, 2nd or 3rd place in 6 different competitions in novice). Dancers will continue to focus on technique and improving known dances, and will begin to work on Premier level dances including the Blue Bonnets, Village Maid, Scotch Measure and Earl of Errol.
Premier / Championship
Dancers who have reached the Premier level of competition have successfully reached the top category of competitive Highland Dancing. These dancers continue to improve their technique and stamina, as well as have the opportunity to compete in Championship and Premiership events where they are able to compete for titles.
Class Logistics
New Primary - One 30-minute class per week
Returning Primary - One 30-minute class per week, moving to one 45-minute class per week when appropriate.
New Beginner - One 45-minute class per week, moving to 60-minute classes when appropriate.
Returning Beginner/Novice - One or two 60-minute classes per week - two classes per week are highly recommended for those who wish to compete.
Intermediate/Premier - Two 90-minute classes per week with option for extra technique/stamina lessons
*Private lessons are available to competitive dancers of all levels*