2024-2025
Quarterly Sessions
10 classes per session
Fall: September 2024 to November 2024
Winter: December 2024 to February 2025
Spring: March 2025 to May 2025
Classes held at the
San Ramon Valley Dance Academy
101 Ryan Industrial Ct, San Ramon, CA 94583
Class Types
Beginner Lessons
Beginner-level classes provide an introduction to the basics of bharatanatyam, including learning adavus, or the fundamental units of movement that form the dance sequence. Each adavu, teaches the student the primary elements of bharatanatyam, such as
- aramandi, the primary posture,
- sthanakam, feet and leg movements,
- charis, walking movements,
- hastas, hand gestures, and
- talam and kalam, rhythm and speed.
Beginner level classes are divided into 3 categories: Beginner 1, 2, and 3, where students learn preliminary, intermediate, and advanced adavus, respectively.
Intermediate Lessons
With intermediate-level classes, students begin learning fundamental pieces of the bharatanatyam repertoire, including pieces such as alarippu, jathiswaram, kavithavum, and pushpanjali. Students are also introduced to theory lessons, which provides the needed context behind bharatanatyam, including India’s cultural history, legends and mythology, and arts and performances.
Intermediate level classes are divided into 3 categories: Intermediate 1, 2, and 3, where students learn increasingly advanced performance pieces.
Advanced Lessons
Advanced-level classes focus on honing students’ performance skills through a balanced combination of nritta (dance movement) and abhinaya (expressive storytelling). Students learn intricate choreographies, including select Keerthanams, Thillanas, and Varnams, which challenge students to master complex techniques and emotional expression. In addition to refining their dance, students continue their theory studies, deepening their understanding of Bharatanatyam’s history, philosophy, and artistic nuances.
Advanced-level classes are divided into four stages: Advanced 1, 2, 3, and 4. In each stage, students engage in an in-depth exploration of the subtleties of Bharatanatyam compositions and work to perfect their performances, focusing on precision, expression, and artistry.
Arangetram Lessons
Arangetram lessons are designed for students who have mastered the essential pieces of the Bharatanatyam repertoire and are preparing to present their Arangetram as a culmination of their training. These lessons are typically conducted in solo sessions or in small groups of 2–5 students, and span a duration of one year leading up to the Arangetram performance. The focus is on refining choreography, honing technique, and preparing for their formal debut as a Bharatanatyam artist.
Adult Lessons
Adult lessons are designed for individuals who wish to explore Bharatanatyam, whether they are complete beginners or have prior experience. These classes progress at an accelerated pace, with instruction tailored to accommodate a range of learning styles and physical abilities. Offered in group formats, the curriculum moves from beginner to intermediate and advanced levels, allowing students to progressively refine their technique.
