Long's School of Dance

For residents across Pennsylvania, particularly those in the Erie region, finding "points of interest" that resonate with generations and offer consistent quality is a true highlight. In the world of performing arts, Long's School of Dance stands as an iconic and deeply cherished institution. Established in 1946, this isn't just a dance studio; it's a legacy, training thousands of students over three generations and consistently being recognized as a premier performing arts school in the tri-state area. For locals seeking a place where their children can learn and grow in various dance styles, make lifelong friends, and even perform on a grand stage, Long's School of Dance offers an unparalleled experience that truly becomes a part of the family's life.

Long's School of Dance has earned its reputation as the #1 performing arts school in Erie for over 60 years, and "Erie's Best and Erie's Choice for 20 Years." This enduring success is built on a foundation of knowledgeable, caring, and attentive teachers, such as Mrs. Jess and Mrs. Long, who are committed to the individual progress of every student. They pride themselves on teaching proper technique and employ university-educated instructors, some of whom are also experienced in working with students with special needs and/or disabilities. The school offers a graded syllabus across all performing arts subjects, ensuring a comprehensive and structured education for all. Long's is dedicated to helping students of all ages discover their potential, embrace their creativity, and boost their energy and health through the transformative power of dance, making it a beloved institution for the Erie community.

Long's School of Dance has its main administrative hub at 826 Selinger Ave, Erie, PA 16505, but it is important to note that it proudly operates from seven convenient locations across the Erie, PA area, ensuring broad accessibility for local families. The provided address for this article, 2640 E 38th St, Erie, PA 16510, USA, represents one of these vital satellite locations, specifically serving the East Erie / East 38th & Bayfront area.

These multiple locations—including West Erie-Mill Creek, Fairview, Girard, Mill Village/Waterford, Edinboro, and Union City—mean that a high-quality dance education is within easy reach for a vast majority of residents in Western Pennsylvania. This decentralized approach greatly reduces travel time for busy families, making regular attendance at classes convenient and sustainable. Each location is chosen for its ease of access within its respective community, often featuring suitable parking. This commitment to widespread accessibility underscores Long's School of Dance's dedication to serving the entire Erie region and providing quality dance education right where the community lives.

Long's School of Dance offers the most extensive dance training in the tri-state area, providing a wide array of high-quality programs tailored to various ages, interests, and skill levels. Their comprehensive curriculum includes:

• Diverse Dance Styles: Offers classes in a broad spectrum of dance genres including Ballet (focusing on posture, grace, and poise), Tap (developing rhythm, balance, speed, and agility), Jazz (upbeat, dynamic movement), Hip Hop (contemporary and expressive styles), and Acrobatics (combining dance with gymnastic elements).
• Irish Dance Program: A notable specialization, including both recreational classes and a competitive Irish Dance team, which has become a favorite among many students.
• Combative Arts: An interesting and unique addition to their curriculum, suggesting a focus on discipline, strength, and coordination.
• Classes for All Ages: Provides programs for children as young as 2-3 years old ("Earn Your Wings Creative Movement") up through adults, ensuring dance is accessible to all generations.
• Two-Style Combo Classes: Introductory classes that combine two styles (e.g., ballet/tap, hip hop/jazz) for younger students or beginners, allowing them to explore different forms.
• Creative Movement Classes: Designed for the youngest dancers (ages 2-4), focusing on imagination through themed dance adventures, music, and motor skill development.
• Graded Syllabus: All performing arts subjects follow a graded syllabus, with students placed according to age and ability, ensuring a structured and progressive learning path.
• Summer Dance Programs: Offers various summer camps and classes for continued engagement and skill development during breaks.
• Exclusive Dancewear Store: Features an on-site store carrying high-quality dance apparel, including leotards, tights, and shoes for all styles, providing a convenient one-stop shop for student needs.

Long's School of Dance is a distinguished point of interest in Erie, highlighted by several key features that contribute to its long-standing success and beloved status in the community.

• Decades of Excellence (Established 1946): With over 75 years of operation, Long's is a recognized and respected name in performing arts, training thousands of students over three generations. This longevity speaks to its consistent quality and community trust.
• Multiple Convenient Locations (7 in Erie, PA): Having seven locations across Erie and surrounding areas significantly enhances accessibility for families, making high-quality dance education within reach for many.
• Knowledgeable, Caring, and Attentive Teachers: Instructors like Mrs. Jess and Mrs. Long are consistently praised for their professionalism, care, and individualized attention to students, fostering an incredibly supportive learning environment.
• Significant Student Progress: Parents frequently comment on the remarkable progress their children make in dancing skills throughout the year, a testament to the effective teaching methods.
• Strong Sense of Community and Friendship: The school successfully cultivates an environment where children make "many friends" and look forward to their weekly classes, highlighting the strong social bonds formed.
• Annual Professional Show at Warner Theatre: A major highlight is the annual dance concert held at the prestigious Warner Theatre, often with a live orchestra. This provides students with invaluable professional stage experience and is a cherished event for families.
• Competitive Irish Dance Team: For students with a passion for Irish dance, the opportunity to join a competitive team offers advanced training and performance avenues.
• Commitment to Proper Technique and Professionalism: Long's prides itself on instilling correct technique and fostering professionalism, preparing students not just for performance but for life skills.
• Recognized and Award-Winning: Consistently voted "Erie's Best and Erie's Choice for Best Performing Arts School" for over 20 years in a row, reaffirming its leading position in the local arts scene.

For more information about classes, schedules, or to enroll your child, you can contact Long's School of Dance using the details below:

Address: 2640 E 38th St, Erie, PA 16510, USA (Note: This is one of seven locations. Please visit their website or call for the most convenient location for you.)

Phone: (814) 899-1722

Mobile Phone: +1 814-899-1722

Main Office Phone: (814) 833-7179 (as per website)

Website: http://www.longschoolofdance.net (Highly recommended for comprehensive class schedules and location details)

For families across Pennsylvania, especially those residing in the Erie region, Long's School of Dance stands as an exemplary "point of interest" that is exceptionally well-suited to the local community's needs and aspirations. Its enduring legacy, comprehensive offerings, and unwavering commitment to student well-being make it a premier choice for dance education.

Firstly, the sheer accessibility provided by its seven conveniently located studios throughout Erie and its surrounding areas is a significant advantage for busy local families. This distributed presence means that top-quality dance instruction is never too far away, making consistent participation a practical reality.

What truly sets Long's apart for locals is the nurturing and expert guidance provided by its caring teachers, like Mrs. Jess and Mrs. Long. Reviews consistently highlight their attentiveness and the remarkable progress children make, not just in dance skills but also in confidence and social development. The emphasis on fostering friendships ensures that classes are not only educational but also a source of joy and social connection for young dancers.

The vast array of dance styles offered—from traditional ballet and tap to energetic hip hop, acrobatics, and even specialized Irish dance—means that every child can find their passion and thrive. The opportunity for students to perform in a professional, two-night Annual Dance Concert at the iconic Warner Theatre, often with a live orchestra, provides an invaluable and unforgettable experience right here in Erie. This commitment to high-quality performance opportunities further enriches the local arts scene.

Long's School of Dance is more than just a place to learn steps; it's a community institution that builds character, instills discipline, and creates cherished memories. For generations, it has been a trusted name, consistently voted "Erie's Best and Erie's Choice" for good reason. For any local family looking for a comprehensive, supportive, and truly enriching dance experience for their children, Long's School of Dance is an indispensable point of interest that offers a pathway to skill, confidence, and lifelong joy through movement.

Long's School of Dance

2640 E 38th St, Erie, PA 16510, USA