Corriston Movement and Dance

Hello, dance enthusiasts and movement lovers of Virginia! If you're in the Harrisonburg area and seeking a dance studio that truly prioritizes a holistic, nurturing approach to dance education, then you absolutely need to discover Corriston Movement and Dance (CMAD). This growing dance center is quickly becoming a beloved fixture in the Harrisonburg community, dedicated to invigorating, challenging, and caring for every dancer, whether they are taking their very first steps or pursuing a lifelong passion.

Corriston Movement and Dance stands out by integrating innovative educational principles into its core curriculum. Led by experienced and passionate instructors, CMAD focuses on "BrainDance/brain compatible education" and "anatomically safe technique," ensuring that students not only learn to move beautifully but also understand the mechanics behind their movements in a healthy way. This unique approach, combined with a weekly focus on a different dance element (such as space, shape, level, or direction), allows students to approach movement both technically and creatively. The studio is celebrated for its "nurturing, non-competitive and fun!" environment, making it an ideal place for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to explore the art of dance without feeling intimidated or judged. For locals in Harrisonburg seeking a dance experience that fosters genuine enjoyment and comprehensive development, CMAD offers a truly special opportunity.

Corriston Movement and Dance is conveniently located at 315 Lucy Dr, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, USA. This address places the dance center within easy reach for residents of Harrisonburg and the surrounding areas in the Shenandoah Valley. Lucy Drive is accessible from main thoroughfares within the city, making commutes straightforward for families and individual students.

As a local business serving the community, it's reasonable to expect that the facility offers accessible parking options for its patrons, providing convenience for drop-offs and pickups. Harrisonburg is a relatively easy city to navigate, and its infrastructure supports local businesses well. The studio's presence in a dedicated commercial or educational space, as implied by a dance center, suggests a suitable environment for movement classes. Being situated within Harrisonburg means that Corriston Movement and Dance is a convenient and integral part of the local arts and wellness scene, making it a prime choice for Virginians in the region looking for quality dance instruction without extensive travel.

• BrainDance/Brain Compatible Education: Integrating principles of brain development into dance instruction to enhance learning and motor skills.
• Anatomically Safe Technique: A focus on teaching dance movements in a way that is safe for the body, preventing injury and promoting healthy alignment.
• Creative Movement Exploration: Classes that encourage students to explore movement technically and creatively, focusing on elements like space, shape, level, and direction.
• Nurturing and Non-Competitive Environment: A core philosophy of the studio is to provide a supportive and encouraging atmosphere where students can learn and grow without the pressure of intense competition.
• Fun-Oriented Classes: Emphasizing enjoyment as a key component of the learning process, making dance accessible and engaging for all participants.
• Birthday Parties: Available for dance students aged 3-14, where dancers learn and create fun routines, with options to be held at your home or at The Nest (with an additional studio rental fee).
• Private Lessons: One-on-one instruction available for up to three dancers sharing a time slot, offering personalized attention and tailored guidance (30-minute and 60-minute options available, plus rental space cost).
• Choreography Services: Offering specialized choreography at a per-minute rate for individual needs or performances.
• Variety of Dance Concepts: Each class incorporates a different dance concept weekly (e.g., Levels, Energy, Directions, Focus), enriching the learning experience.

• Holistic and Brain-Centric Approach: A standout feature is the integration of "BrainDance/brain compatible education" and "anatomically safe technique." This demonstrates a modern, informed approach to dance instruction that prioritizes healthy physical development and cognitive engagement.
• Nurturing and Non-Competitive Atmosphere: The studio explicitly prides itself on being "nurturing, non-competitive and fun!" This is a significant highlight for parents and students who may seek a supportive environment focused on personal growth rather than intense competition.
• Experienced and Qualified Instructors: Amber Corriston, the Artistic Director/Owner, has been teaching since 1994 across various major cities (Seattle, NYC, Connecticut) and holds a Magna Cum Laude degree in Dance and Communications. Her husband, Ryan Corriston, is an Associate Professor of Dance at James Madison University and also supports CMAD, bringing a wealth of professional experience.
• Diverse Dance Offerings: Amber Corriston teaches a range of styles including ballet, jazz, creative movement, parent-toddler, modern, musical theater, and beginning tap, indicating a broad curriculum for various interests and age groups.
• Focus on Core Dance Concepts: Classes incorporate a "different dance concept each week" (e.g., Levels, Energy, Directions, Focus), encouraging a deeper understanding and creative application of movement.
• Strong Academic and Professional Background: The instructors' affiliations with universities (University of Washington, James Madison University) and their past performance experiences (e.g., Metropolitan Opera, Doug Varone and Dancers) speak to the high caliber of teaching available.
• Community Involvement: Amber Corriston's role as Director of the Dance Program and Instructor at Harrisonburg High School, and the HHS musical choreographer, shows strong ties to the local educational and arts community.
• Personalized Services: The availability of private lessons and choreography services caters to individual needs, allowing for focused learning and specialized performance preparation.

Address: 315 Lucy Dr, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, USA

Phone: (540) 738-0211

Mobile Phone: +1 540-738-0211

Email: corristonmad@gmail.com

Operating Hours (subject to change, typically):

• Monday-Friday: 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

For residents across Virginia, particularly those in Harrisonburg and the wider Shenandoah Valley, Corriston Movement and Dance (CMAD) offers an exceptionally suitable and highly beneficial environment for engaging with the art of dance. Its unique philosophy and expert instruction make it a standout choice for anyone seeking a comprehensive, supportive, and enriching dance experience right here in our community.

What makes CMAD particularly suitable for locals is its deep commitment to a "nurturing, non-competitive and fun!" learning atmosphere. This approach is ideal for families who want their children to develop a love for dance without the intense pressure often found in competitive environments. Similarly, adults looking to explore dance, improve fitness, or simply enjoy a creative outlet will find a welcoming space that prioritizes personal growth and enjoyment over perfection.

The instructors, particularly Amber and Ryan Corriston, bring an impressive blend of professional performance experience, academic rigor (with backgrounds at top universities and dance companies), and a dedication to cutting-edge pedagogical methods like BrainDance. This ensures that students receive not only high-quality technical training but also a deeper understanding of movement and their own bodies. The focus on "anatomically safe technique" is invaluable for long-term dancer health.

Furthermore, the diverse range of dance styles offered, from ballet and jazz to modern and musical theater, caters to a wide array of interests and age groups. The availability of private lessons and birthday parties also adds to the community-focused services. In essence, Corriston Movement and Dance is more than just a dance studio; it's a local institution that fosters creativity, builds confidence, and promotes a lifelong appreciation for movement in a truly supportive Harrisonburg setting.

Corriston Movement and Dance

315 Lucy Dr, Harrisonburg, VA 22801, USA