Courtney’s School of Dance

Welcome to **Courtney’s School of Dance**, a vibrant and dedicated institution in Gardena, CA, committed to fostering a love for dance and developing skilled performers. For residents across California, particularly those in the South Bay area, finding a dance school that offers both classical training and a supportive learning environment is paramount. Courtney’s School of Dance strives to be that place, providing quality instruction in the disciplines of Ballet, Jazz, and Tap. Our mission is centered on emphasizing proper dance technique, focus, and hard work, all while maintaining a positive space free of judgment and stress. This philosophy ensures that students can not only build their dance skills but also develop strong character and self-esteem. Our curriculum is carefully structured to inspire students and encourage them to cultivate and sustain appreciation and respect for the art of dance. We believe that dance is a transformative art form that can enrich lives, instill discipline, and build confidence. From the youngest aspiring dancers to those looking to refine their skills, Courtney’s School of Dance offers a welcoming and enriching experience where every student is encouraged to explore their potential and find joy in movement. We are passionate about making classical dance accessible to everyone, believing that its benefits should be widely available within our community.

Courtney’s School of Dance is conveniently located at **14114 Normandie Ave, Gardena, CA 90247, USA**, making it an easily accessible destination for families throughout Gardena and the surrounding South Bay communities. Our location on Normandie Avenue offers a central point for residents in areas such as Torrance, Carson, Lomita, and other nearby cities, allowing for convenient travel to and from classes. The studio is situated in a well-established area of Gardena, with good road access that helps simplify drop-offs and pick-ups for parents. Public transportation options in the vicinity may also provide alternative ways to reach the studio. We understand that ease of access is a key factor for busy families, and our Gardena location is chosen to provide just that. The neighborhood around the studio is a familiar and bustling part of Gardena, contributing to the sense of community that we aim to foster within our school. We invite prospective students and their families to visit our studio to experience its welcoming atmosphere and see firsthand the dedication to dance education that defines Courtney’s School of Dance.

At Courtney’s School of Dance, we offer a carefully structured curriculum designed to provide quality instruction across fundamental dance disciplines. Our aim is to provide a well-rounded dance education that builds strong technical foundations and fosters a deep appreciation for the art form. Our services include:

• **Ballet Classes:** As the basis for all dance forms, ballet is a cornerstone of our curriculum. We offer ballet instruction for ages 2-18, emphasizing strong foundation, terminology, and classical music. Our curriculum is based on the Vaganova technique and training method, with opportunities for dancers to advance to Pre-Pointe and Pointe as their technique progresses.
• **Jazz Classes:** Students explore various styles of jazz dance, focusing on rhythm, coordination, and expressive movement. Jazz classes build on ballet fundamentals to enhance performance quality and versatility.
• **Tap Classes:** Our tap programs teach rhythmic precision, musicality, and intricate footwork. Students learn to create diverse sounds and develop their percussive abilities.
• **Contemporary Classes:** These classes explore fluid movement, emotional expression, and innovative choreography, allowing dancers to develop their artistic voice.
• **AcroFlex:** A class designed to improve flexibility, strength, and acrobatic skills, enhancing overall dance performance and preventing injuries.
• **Hip Hop Classes:** Energetic and dynamic classes that teach the latest hip hop styles, focusing on rhythm, coordination, and freestyle elements.
• **Adult Classes:** Courtney's School of Dance plans to add adult classes in various styles, including ballet, hip hop, group dance fitness, heels, and line dancing, catering to adults looking to learn, exercise, or rediscover their passion for dance.
• **Performance Opportunities:** Students are given opportunities to showcase their skills in various productions and community events, helping them build confidence and stage presence.
• **Community Initiatives (WE Dance!):** Courtney's School of Dance partners with Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation to offer "WE Dance!", a low-to-no-cost dance program aimed at making dance accessible to families in diverse communities.

Courtney’s School of Dance distinguishes itself through a commitment to foundational training, community involvement, and the personal dedication of its founder, Courtney Mattheis. Here are some of the key features and highlights that make our studio a notable point of interest:

• **Focus on Classical Disciplines:** The school prioritizes instruction in classical ballet, jazz, and tap, providing students with a strong technical foundation essential for any dance journey.
• **Experienced and Dedicated Leadership:** Owner and Director Courtney Mattheis brings a lifetime of dance experience, beginning at age 5, performing in significant productions like The Nutcracker, and later teaching and choreographing from a young age. Her passion for dance and dedication to her students are evident in the school's philosophy.
• **Commitment to Accessible Dance Education:** A core principle of Courtney's School of Dance is that classical dance should be available to everyone, including minority youth who may not traditionally have such opportunities. This commitment drives location choices and program development.
• **Positive and Judgment-Free Environment:** The school is committed to maintaining a positive space where students can build skills, character, and self-esteem free of judgment and stress, fostering a healthy learning atmosphere.
• **Community Engagement and Outreach:** Courtney’s School of Dance actively contributes to community events in the South Bay and Los Angeles County. This includes providing entertainment for women's health expos, participating in city parades, Chamber of Commerce initiatives, Relay For Life campaigns, and swearing-in ceremonies for public officials.
• **Philanthropic Efforts:** Annually, the school holds drives for Toys For Tots and local Food Banks, instilling in students and families the importance of giving back to the community.
• **Award-Winning Recognition:** In 2012, Courtney was the recipient of the Small Business of the Year award, presented by Senator Roderick Wright, recognizing her contributions and the success of her school.
• **Holistic Student Development:** Beyond dance technique, the curriculum and environment are designed to develop students' character, self-esteem, focus, and work ethic.

We encourage you to reach out to Courtney’s School of Dance for more information, class schedules, or to discuss how our programs can benefit you or your aspiring dancer. We are here to answer your questions and help you embark on a rewarding dance journey.

Address: 14114 Normandie Ave, Gardena, CA 90247, USA

Phone: (310) 756-6185

Join our dance family and discover the joy and discipline of dance!

For locals across California, particularly those in the Gardena and broader South Bay areas, Courtney’s School of Dance offers a compelling and valuable resource for dance education. The studio's suitability for the local community is rooted in its foundational principles and practical benefits. Firstly, its **accessible location** on Normandie Avenue provides a convenient hub for families in Gardena, Torrance, Carson, and surrounding neighborhoods. This ease of access is crucial for daily routines, ensuring that quality dance instruction is within reach without extensive travel. Secondly, Courtney’s School of Dance is driven by a powerful mission to make **classical dance available to everyone**, a principle that resonates deeply within diverse Californian communities. This commitment to inclusivity, particularly for minority youth, ensures that financial and social barriers are minimized, allowing more individuals to experience the transformative power of dance. The school’s curriculum, with its strong emphasis on **Ballet, Jazz, and Tap**, provides a solid technical foundation that is essential for any aspiring dancer, preparing them for future endeavors in the performing arts or simply instilling a lifelong appreciation for dance. Moreover, the dedication to creating a **positive, judgment-free, and stress-free environment** is a significant draw for parents seeking a nurturing space where their children can thrive both artistically and personally. The focus on developing character and self-esteem alongside dance skills provides a holistic educational experience that extends beyond the studio. Lastly, the extensive **community involvement and philanthropic efforts** of Courtney’s School of Dance further cement its role as a vital local institution. Through partnerships with local organizations and annual drives, the studio not only enriches its students' lives but also contributes meaningfully to the well-being of the wider Gardena community. This blend of high-quality instruction, accessibility, inclusivity, and strong community ties makes Courtney’s School of Dance an exceptional and highly suitable choice for any local looking to embrace the art of dance.

Courtney’s School of Dance

14114 Normandie Ave, Gardena, CA 90247, USA