Valentina’s School of Ballet follows the Vaganova method, a structured and progressive approach to classical ballet training. All students are placed into levels based on age, experience, and technical development. Students typically remain in each level for multiple years to ensure proper mastery before advancing.
Ballet 1 introduces young dancers to the joy of movement through creative exploration and basic ballet technique. Students develop coordination, musicality, and confidence in a fun and supportive environment.
Focus: Movement Fundamentals
- Creative movement and musical games
- Basic posture and flexibility exercises
- Introduction to ballet positions (feet and arms)
- Simple locomotor steps: skipping, galloping, marching
Ballet 2 builds upon foundational skills while increasing structure and coordination.
Focus: Coordination & Physical Preparation
- Improved posture and flexibility
- Expanded ballet positions and terminology
- Musical timing and movement memory
- Creative movement within structured exercises
Ballet 3 introduces more formal ballet technique with an emphasis on alignment, coordination, and movement clarity.
Focus: Technique Foundations
- Barre and center work fundamentals
- Ballet vocabulary and proper alignment
- Body awareness and coordination
- Conditioning and stretching
Ballet 4 deepens technical understanding while increasing complexity and control.
Focus: Placement & Movement Quality
- Port de Bras and Épaulement
- Improved balance and control
- Expanded center work
- Strengthening and flexibility training
Ballet 5 emphasizes technical consistency, musicality, and discipline.
Focus: Strength & Musicality
- Structured barre and center work
- Pre-pointe preparation for female students
- Jumps and turns for male students
- Coordination and musical phrasing
Ballet 6 focuses on refining technique while increasing stamina and strength.
Focus: Refinement & Endurance
- Intermediate pointe technique
- More complex footwork and coordination
- Expanded center and allegro work
- Artistic expression and musical interpretation
Ballet 7 represents the highest level of classical training at VSB.
Focus: Advanced Technique & Artistry
- Advanced pointe technique and partnering
- Intricate footwork and arm coordination
- Classical repertoire including variations, pas de deux, and corps de ballet roles
- Strong emphasis on performance quality and artistic development
VSB Company Member
The VSB Company Program offers selected students the opportunity to participate in competitions and expanded performance opportunities throughout the season.
Company placement is by invitation only. Company dancers continue to train within their assigned ballet levels while participating in additional rehearsals, coaching, and performance-focused training.
Company Opportunities Include:
- Regional and national ballet competitions
- Additional rehearsals and coaching
- Expanded performance opportunities
- Professional rehearsal experience
Pre-Professional Training Program
The Pre-Professional Training Program is the highest level of training at Valentina’s School of Ballet and exists within the VSB Company Program. It is designed for serious dancers who aspire to pursue professional ballet careers or gain admission to competitive college dance programs.
Students are hand-selected by Artistic Director Valentina Barsukova and train over 20 hours per week in a comprehensive and disciplined curriculum.
Program Includes:
- Ballet, Pointe, Variations, and Repertoire
- Character and Contemporary
- Stretch and Conditioning
- Private coaching in ballet and contemporary
- Professional discipline and performance preparation
This program prepares dancers for professional companies, international training programs, and prestigious university dance programs.
Note: All level progression, including movement between Recreational and Intensive programs, is based on teacher assessment and approval. Advancement is determined by skill mastery, consistency, and readiness.