Moderne Academie of Fine Arts

For families across New Jersey, and particularly in the charming town of Scotch Plains, finding a dance studio that blends rigorous technical training with a genuinely supportive and familial atmosphere is a cherished discovery. Moderne Academie of Fine Arts (MAFA) is precisely that kind of institution. With a rich history spanning over 50 years, MAFA has become a beloved landmark in the community, fostering a love for dance and movement in generations of students. It's a place where children and adults alike not only learn the art of dance but also become part of a larger, supportive family, a testament to its enduring impact on the local New Jersey arts scene.

Moderne Academie of Fine Arts distinguishes itself through its unwavering commitment to proper technique and a philosophy that every child deserves a chance to shine. As one long-time member beautifully states, "MAFA is a family that you’re lucky if you can be a part of." This sentiment is echoed by parents who have seen their children, and even themselves, grow up dancing within its walls. The instructors are lauded for their patience, enthusiasm, and dedication to instilling high standards while ensuring the learning process remains fun and engaging. For New Jersey locals, MAFA represents more than just a dance school; it's a legacy of artistic excellence and community building, making it a truly exceptional place for anyone passionate about fine arts.

Moderne Academie of Fine Arts is conveniently located at 1820 E 2nd St, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076, USA. This address places it centrally within Scotch Plains, making it highly accessible for residents of the town and neighboring communities across Union County, New Jersey. East 2nd Street is a well-established road, ensuring that the studio is easy to find, whether you are arriving by car or familiar with local routes.

Accessibility is a significant factor for families in New Jersey when choosing extracurricular activities, and MAFA's location offers practical advantages. Being situated in a local community means that it is often a convenient drive for many. While specific parking details are not explicitly provided in the reviews, local studios typically offer accessible parking or are located in areas where street parking is feasible, contributing to a hassle-free experience for parents dropping off and picking up students. This thoughtful consideration of convenience allows more individuals to seamlessly integrate dance education into their busy schedules, strengthening MAFA's role as a cornerstone for performing arts in the New Jersey region.

Moderne Academie of Fine Arts offers a comprehensive and diverse range of dance and fine arts programs, designed to cater to students of all ages and skill levels, from toddlers taking their very first steps to adults seeking a fun workout or to rekindle a passion. Their curriculum is built on a strong foundation of technique and artistic expression.

• Ballet: As the cornerstone of dance, ballet classes emphasize classical technique, proper alignment, balance, and grace, building the fundamental strength and poise required for all other dance forms. Pointe classes are also offered, by invitation only, for advanced ballet students.
• Tap: Students delve into rhythmic precision and musicality through both traditional and contemporary tap styles, developing intricate footwork and a strong sense of rhythm.
• Jazz: High-energy classes focusing on dynamic movements, turns, jumps, and performance quality, blending various jazz styles for a vibrant and engaging experience.
• Lyrical/Contemporary: These expressive styles combine elements of ballet and jazz, focusing on fluid movement, emotional storytelling through dance, and musical interpretation.
• Hip Hop: Popular and energetic classes that explore various urban street dance styles, emphasizing rhythm, individuality, and dynamic choreography. Boys-only Hip Hop classes are also available.
• Acrobatics: Combines dance with gymnastic elements, focusing on flexibility, strength, and tumbling skills, enhancing dancers' versatility and physical control.
• Musical Theatre: Integrates singing, acting, and dance, preparing students for stage performances and focusing on storytelling and character portrayal through movement and expression. They even offer classes on how to write and perform a musical!
• Programs for All Ages:
  • Mommy and Me (18 months+): Early introduction to movement and music in a fun, interactive setting with a parent or guardian.
  • Toddlers (2-4 yrs): Age-appropriate classes fostering creativity and basic dance concepts.
  • Schoolkids (5-7 yrs): Structured classes introducing foundational techniques.
  • Tweens (8-12 yrs) & Teens (13-18 yrs): Progressive training designed for developing skill and artistry.
  • Adults: Classes like Adult Tap and Adult Cardio Dance parties offer engaging ways for adults to stay active and enjoy dance, regardless of prior experience.
• Summer Sessions & Intensives: Offering full and half-day camps for younger children, and intensive workshops for experienced dancers with guest instructors, providing concentrated training during the summer months.
• Birthday Parties: Unique, themed dance parties for children aged 3 and up, providing a fun and memorable way to celebrate.

Moderne Academie of Fine Arts is distinguished by several key features and highlights that contribute to its celebrated reputation and enduring success within the New Jersey community.

• Over 50 Years of Experience: MAFA has been "fostering the love of dance for over 50 years," indicating a deep-rooted legacy and a proven track record of excellence in dance education. This longevity speaks volumes about their quality and stability.
• "Family" Atmosphere: Consistently praised by long-term students and parents, MAFA fosters a strong sense of family and community. This nurturing environment ensures students feel lucky to be a part of it, providing support that extends beyond dance technique.
• Technique-Focused Instruction: The studio is highly focused on "technique, and doing it right." This commitment to a strong foundation is taught by patient and enthusiastic instructors who hold degrees in dance and regularly attend educational workshops with leaders in the field, ensuring high standards.
• Highly Qualified and Passionate Instructors: MAFA's instructors are not only highly skilled and patient but also deeply passionate about teaching. They are members of prestigious organizations like Dance Masters of America in NYC and Associated Dance Teachers of New Jersey, reflecting their professional credentials.
• Inclusive Approach: Unlike some other schools, MAFA believes "every child deserves a spot in the front line and a chance to shine," preventing feelings of inadequacy and ensuring all students have performance opportunities, which significantly boosts confidence.
• Award-Winning History: The studio boasts an impressive array of competition awards, including multiple 1st Place Overall Winner titles at Nationals Dance Xplosion (2019, 2015) and numerous Chaliff Scholarship wins (sweeping 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place four years in a row). They also received the Scotch Plains Small Business of the Month in 2020.
• Alumni Success: Dancers trained at MAFA have gone on to achieve success in various professional arenas, including movies, television, Broadway, commercials, and professional dance companies, showcasing the quality of their training.
• Small Student-to-Instructor Ratio: This allows staff to concentrate on teaching technique with a creative approach and atmosphere, ensuring personalized attention for every student.
• Scholarship and Workshop Opportunities: MAFA provides scholarships and workshops, along with Dance Exams and certificates, offering incentives that elevate the curriculum and support student growth.

For individuals and families in New Jersey interested in joining the Moderne Academie of Fine Arts family or learning more about their extensive programs, here is their contact information:

Address: 1820 E 2nd St, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076, USA

Phone: (908) 322-4249

Mobile Phone: +1 908-322-4249

Connecting with MAFA is convenient for prospective students and parents in Scotch Plains and the wider New Jersey area. Their readily available phone lines ensure that you can easily inquire about class schedules, specific dance styles, age-group suitability, tuition fees, and registration processes. The staff, known for their professionalism and helpfulness, are prepared to answer all your questions and guide you through the enrollment process. We encourage you to reach out directly to discover how Moderne Academie of Fine Arts can provide a transformative and joyful dance experience, fostering not just dancers, but confident and well-rounded individuals within their unique "dance family."

For locals in the New Jersey region, particularly those in Scotch Plains and Union County, Moderne Academie of Fine Arts is an exceptionally suitable choice for dance and fine arts education. Its remarkable suitability stems from its half-century legacy of excellence, its profound commitment to rigorous technique, and its deeply ingrained philosophy of nurturing every child's potential within a warm and inclusive "dance family" environment. The enthusiastic testimonials from generations of students and parents consistently highlight the studio's ability to foster not only incredible dance skills but also vital life attributes like confidence, discipline, and a true love for the art.

With its wide array of programs catering to all ages and skill levels, from toddlers to adults, and its award-winning history, MAFA stands as a beacon of quality in the New Jersey performing arts landscape. The convenient location and personalized attention further enhance its appeal, making high-quality dance instruction accessible and enjoyable for local families. Choosing Moderne Academie of Fine Arts means becoming part of a storied tradition where talent and character are meticulously nurtured, ensuring an enriching and unforgettable experience for all who step onto their dance floor.

Moderne Academie of Fine Arts

1820 E 2nd St, Scotch Plains, NJ 07076, USA