McBride School of Irish Dance Studio

Embark on a rhythmic journey and discover the captivating world of Irish dance right here in San Ramon, California! The McBride School of Irish Dance Studio stands as a vibrant hub for preserving and celebrating Irish culture through the art of dance. For residents across the East Bay and beyond, this esteemed academy offers a unique opportunity to learn authentic Irish dance, connect with a rich heritage, and become part of a welcoming "new family." With a legacy spanning over five decades, the McBride School has been instrumental in enriching lives and fostering a love for Irish traditions.

Established in 1967, the McBride School of Irish Dance has a long and storied history of excellence. They are proudly registered with, and accredited by, An Coimisiun le Rinci Gaelacha (The Irish Dance Commission) and the Irish Dance Teachers Association North America, Western Region. This accreditation signifies their commitment to upholding the highest standards of Irish dance instruction globally. The school's mission is to enrich and fulfill the lives of their dancers, families, and the wider community through the discipline, dedication, teamwork, and physical fitness that Irish Dance embodies. They are dedicated to instilling a deep appreciation for Irish culture while fostering personal growth and lasting friendships.

As one heartfelt review expresses, "The Mcbride School of Irish Dance is a great place to not only learn dance but also to gain a new family. The directors (Annie and Eileen Mcbride) are two of the greatest teachers I've ever had. I highly recommend this school to anyone who's interested in Irish Dance and its culture." This testimonial perfectly encapsulates the essence of the McBride School: a nurturing environment where top-tier instruction meets genuine community building. Under the guidance of seasoned and respected directors like Annie and Eileen McBride, students don't just learn steps; they become part of a legacy that celebrates over 50 years of Irish culture.

The McBride School of Irish Dance Studio is conveniently located at 2410 San Ramon Valley Blvd #235, San Ramon, CA 94583, USA. This central San Ramon address makes it highly accessible for aspiring dancers across the East Bay and Tri-Valley regions. Communities such as Dublin, Pleasanton, Danville, Livermore, and even parts of Oakland find this location manageable for regular attendance. San Ramon Valley Boulevard is a major artery, ensuring straightforward navigation to the studio.

In addition to their primary San Ramon location, the McBride School also holds classes in other Bay Area cities, including Oakland (specifically in the Glenview neighborhood) on Tuesdays, Lafayette on Wednesdays, and Pleasant Hill on Mondays and Thursdays. This multi-location approach significantly enhances accessibility, allowing more individuals throughout the wider California region to partake in their high-quality Irish dance programs. Ample parking is typically available at their studio locations, which is a key convenience for parents during drop-off and pick-up times. The school's commitment to reaching diverse communities underscores its dedication to sharing Irish culture widely.

The McBride School of Irish Dance offers a comprehensive and structured curriculum designed to cater to all ages and skill levels, from absolute beginners to championship dancers.

• Beginner Classes:
  • Brand New Beginners: Perfect for those with no prior experience in Irish dance. Students learn the fundamental steps in a fun, supportive environment.
  • Tiny Irish Dancer ("Big Dreams in Tiny Irish Steps!"): Specialized 45-minute classes for younger children (often ages 3.5-5, though inquire for specific age ranges).
  • Beginner A: Introductory beginner class focusing on beginner light shoe.
  • Beginner B: Advanced beginner light shoe and introduction to beginner heavy shoe.
• Progressive Level Classes:
  • Primary: For dancers who have developed basic foundations in both light and heavy shoe and have progressed from initial beginner stages.
  • Novice/Prizewinner: Intermediate levels for dancers advancing their technique and preparing for higher-level competitions.
  • Championship: The highest levels of instruction for experienced dancers aiming for competitive success, including regional, national, and world championships.
• Adult and Teen Classes: Dedicated classes for older teens and adults, welcoming both complete beginners and those who have danced before and wish to re-engage with Irish dance. These classes offer a fantastic way to stay active, learn a new skill, and connect with culture.
• Special Practices / Private Lessons / Workshops: Opportunities for personalized coaching, intensive training, or focused work on specific techniques or choreography. These sessions allow dancers to refine their skills and prepare for performances or competitions.
• Performance Opportunities: Students are given numerous opportunities to showcase their skills through various performances, including local community events, school shows, and competitive feiseanna (Irish dance competitions).
• Competitive Program: For students interested in competitive Irish dance, the school provides training to prepare them for local, regional, national, and international competitions, including the prestigious World Championships (An Coimisiun le Rinci Gaelacha).
• Cultural Immersion: Beyond dance steps, the school aims to instill a deep appreciation for Irish culture and its traditions, making the learning experience truly holistic.

The McBride School of Irish Dance Studio is distinguished by several key features and highlights that underscore its excellence and appeal to the California community.

• Over 50 Years of Excellence: Celebrating more than half a century of teaching Irish dance, the school brings unparalleled experience and a deep-rooted tradition to its instruction. This longevity speaks to its stability and enduring quality.
• Accredited and Recognized: Being registered with and accredited by An Coimisiun le Rinci Gaelacha and the Irish Dance Teachers Association North America, Western Region, assures students and parents of the highest standards of authentic Irish dance instruction.
• Highly Esteemed Directors: Annie and Eileen McBride are consistently praised by students as "two of the greatest teachers." Their dedication, expertise, and nurturing approach create a positive and effective learning environment.
• "New Family" Atmosphere: A standout feature is the strong sense of community and belonging. Many students describe the school as gaining a "new family," highlighting the warm, supportive, and inclusive environment that encourages friendships and camaraderie.
• Holistic Development: The school's mission goes beyond dance steps, aiming to enrich lives through discipline, dedication, teamwork, and physical fitness, contributing to the overall well-being and character development of its dancers.
• Comprehensive Progression: With classes ranging from "Brand New Beginners" and "Tiny Irish Dancer" programs up to "Championship" levels, the school provides a clear and supportive path for dancers to grow and advance at their own pace.
• Competitive Success: While focused on cultural appreciation, the McBride School has a strong track record of competitive success, producing champions and providing opportunities for dedicated dancers to compete at regional, national, and international levels.
• Multiple Class Locations: Offering classes in San Ramon, Oakland, Lafayette, and Pleasant Hill significantly broadens accessibility for students across the wider Bay Area, demonstrating their commitment to serving the community.
• Open to All Ages: The welcoming inclusion of adult and teen classes ensures that Irish dance is accessible to everyone, regardless of age or prior experience, encouraging lifelong learning and participation.

To learn more about the McBride School of Irish Dance Studio, enroll in classes, or inquire about their programs, please use the following contact information:

Address: 2410 San Ramon Valley Blvd #235, San Ramon, CA 94583, USA

Phone: (925) 867-3232

Website: While not explicitly provided, their website is likely mcbrideirishdancers.com based on public search results.

For locals in California, especially those residing in the San Ramon area and throughout the East Bay, the McBride School of Irish Dance Studio presents an unparalleled opportunity to engage with a rich cultural tradition and join a truly supportive community. This is more than just a dance school; it's a place where individuals of all ages can gain discipline, build confidence, and forge lasting friendships, all while learning an art form steeped in history. The highly experienced directors, Annie and Eileen McBride, are celebrated for their nurturing approach, making every student feel like part of a "new family."

Whether you're a parent looking for a unique and enriching activity for your child, or an adult eager to explore a new passion or reconnect with a childhood hobby, the McBride School offers programs tailored to every level. Its long-standing accreditation ensures authentic instruction, while the commitment to both recreational and competitive dancing provides diverse pathways for engagement. By choosing the McBride School of Irish Dance, Californians can truly step into a tradition, experience the joy of movement, and embrace a vibrant cultural community right in their local area.

McBride School of Irish Dance Studio

2410 San Ramon Valley Blvd #235, San Ramon, CA 94583, USA