High Country Conservatory of Dance: Fort Collins Dance Programs

Ballet Program…HCCD strictly follows and teaches a Russian-based method. Our Evaluation/Level Program is based on this method for a variety of reasons…

This method is "tried and true." It has turned out the world's leading performers, some of which are the greatest dancers of all time.
The Russian method was developed with the body of the dancer in mind. It makes sense physically.
The Russian method is broken into levels. Each level contains the perfect building blocks to progress to the next level.

Modern Dance Program… HCCD has a set levels program for our modern dancers. This program is based off of the movement and varied styles of the modern dance pioneers. In our modern dance program, students will learn the basic elements associated with this art form in a step by step manner. Our program brings students from the beginning to the advanced stages, helping them to become masters in the art of modern and contemporary movement.

Clogging & Power Tap Program... HCCD has a special program for "clogging" and "power tap." This program can take a dancer from the beginning stages all the way to the "Pro" level. Each level builds on the previous level in a step by step format that allows the dancers to have a strong technical base. We also offer a variety of extra technique classes that focus specifically on certain techniques in the levels. These classes are for students who are already enrolled in our clogging and power tap program. It is another way that HCCD can help dancer's move ahead quickly! HCCD is the only studio known nationally to have a levels program for its clogging and power tap classes. Students in this program have received national titles and awards, performed nationally and internationally, and appeared on NBC's "America's Got Talent." HCCD's Clogging and Power Tap program is "tried and true," and has turned out leading performers and competitors for over a decade.

Hip Hop Program… HCCD offers a great hip hop program that integrates all the "street dancing" styles included in the Hip Hop genre. Our program is well-rounded and taught in a "step-by-step" approach that will ensure success.

Jazz Program… HCCD's Jazz program focuses on a strong technique base. These basic elements are carefully integrated into our Jazz program. As Jan Erkert, a professor of dance at Columbia University explained, "For the dancer, technique is a harness that provides the necessary control to fly and spin, allowing the dancer to rebound in and out of the earth with unseen wings." Our program focuses on developing this "harness" within our dancers through the use of a step by step approach.

Combo Programs (for the younger dancer)… HCCD has special "combo" classes geared toward our younger students ages 4 to 7. In the initial stages of dance, there are fundamental techniques that are universal. The percussive styles of tap and clogging have a beginning step base that is the same. The non-percussive styles of jazz, ballet, modern, etc. have their own similar base. Because of these similarities, HCCD has specifically designed a class that focuses on these basic fundamentals. This is a wonderful way to introduce dance to children. They split their time between percussive (tap & clogging) and non-percussive dance styles (ballet & jazz). This makes the class exciting for the children, keeping their attention riveted during the constant changing pace, while still getting the fundamental techniques. Our Combo classes are 45-60 minutes in length and meet once a week. In these classes, the students have specific techniques they focus on to prepare them for advancing into the dance style(s) of their choice.

Adult Programs… Students in our adult classes learn moves and routines in a casual atmosphere. Our instructors understand the needs of adult students and approach the class differently from our children's programs. Many of our adults use our dance program as an opportunity to stay fit, have fun and socialize. Many of our adults also enjoy performing; however, this is not a requirement.