Schramel Conservatory of Dance

For anyone in New Orleans, Louisiana, with a passion for dance, or for those looking to discover the grace and discipline of ballet, the Schramel Conservatory of Dance stands as a beacon of excellence. As the official school of the renowned New Orleans Ballet Theatre (NOBT), this conservatory offers a truly unique and high-caliber dance education experience right here in the heart of our vibrant city. Whether you're a seasoned dancer aiming for professional heights, or a curious adult taking your very first steps at the barre, Schramel Conservatory provides a welcoming and expertly guided journey into the world of movement.

Founded by Gregory Schramel and Marjorie Hardwick Schramel, who also established the New Orleans Ballet Theatre, the conservatory is built on a foundation of rigorous classical training and a deep commitment to dancer health and artistry. Their faculty comprises classically trained dancers who have enjoyed professional careers with dance companies both nationally and internationally, bringing a wealth of real-world experience and expertise to every class. This ensures that students, from the youngest pre-ballet enthusiasts to advanced adult dancers, receive instruction that is both technically sound and artistically inspiring.

Schramel Conservatory of Dance prides itself on fostering an environment that is both challenging and supportive, where students are encouraged to push their boundaries without feeling overwhelmed. This approach is evident in the heartfelt testimonials from their students, who speak to the kindness and acceptance within the studio.

This article will delve into what makes Schramel Conservatory of Dance a premier destination for dance education for locals in Louisiana. We'll explore its convenient location and accessibility, the diverse range of dance programs offered for both youth and adults, its distinguishing features and highlights, and ultimately, why it is perfectly suited to meet the dance aspirations of our community.

Schramel Conservatory of Dance is ideally located at 920 Terpsichore St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA. This address places the conservatory in the historic and culturally rich Lower Garden District of New Orleans. Terpsichore Street itself carries a name steeped in dance, being named after the Greek muse of dance, which perfectly reflects the essence of the institution. The Lower Garden District is known for its beautiful architecture, vibrant community, and accessibility to other key areas of the city.

Accessibility to Schramel Conservatory of Dance is generally excellent for locals. Situated in an urban residential area, street parking is often available in the vicinity, which is convenient for those driving to classes. For individuals who rely on public transportation, the Lower Garden District is well-served by the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) bus system, with routes on nearby major thoroughfares like St. Charles Avenue and Magazine Street. The iconic St. Charles Avenue Streetcar line is also within walking distance, offering a charming and accessible way to reach the studio from other parts of Uptown, the Central Business District, and the French Quarter. This central and well-connected location ensures that students from various New Orleans neighborhoods can easily access the conservatory for their dance training, integrating seamlessly into their daily routines.

Services Offered:

• Youth Program: Schramel Conservatory of Dance offers ballet, tap, and contemporary/modern dance classes for children of all ages, from beginners to advanced levels.
• American Ballet Theatre Curriculum: Ballet training follows the American Ballet Theatre guidelines, ensuring a high standard of classical technique and dancer health.
• Pre-Ballet (3-4 years): A 45-minute class introducing basic ballet exercises, movement, coordination, and fundamental concepts like identifying right from left.
• Ballet/Tap/Jazz Combo (4-6 years): A 60-minute class perfect for students with some ballet experience, adding introductory tap and jazz techniques.
• Progressive Ballet Levels (Ballet I, II, III, IV, V+): Structured levels for students aged 7 and up, introducing more intensive training, complex vocabulary, technique, and beginning pointe work when appropriate.
• Youth Jazz (10-14 years): Classes for older youth, often suggested with a certain ballet level or dance experience.
• Contemporary/Modern Dance: Classes offered for youth in contemporary and modern styles.
• Adult Program: Offers all levels of adult ballet classes on an ongoing basis, for those seeking a workout, fine-tuning technique, or exploring classical dance.
• Adult Summer Intensive: An intensive program featuring daily ballet technique and rotating classes like Contemporary, Character, Broadway Jazz, Ballet Repertoire, and Mime.
• Professional Faculty: All teachers are classically trained dancers with professional careers in dance companies in the U.S. and internationally.
• Performance Opportunities:
  • Nutcracker and Spring Full-Length Performances with New Orleans Ballet Theatre: By audition only, providing students with opportunities to perform alongside a professional company at the Orpheum Theater.
  • Annual Spring Recital: All SCOD students are invited to perform in this annual recital at Loyola's Roussel Hall, showcasing classwork learned throughout the semester.
  • Spring Concert: Another performance opportunity, often featuring student work.
• Level Placement: Assistance with level placement for new students based on age and ability, ensuring appropriate class fit.

Features / Highlights:

• Official School of New Orleans Ballet Theatre (NOBT): This direct affiliation provides students with unique opportunities to perform with a professional ballet company, offering unparalleled real-world experience.
• Exceptional Faculty: The conservatory boasts a staff of classically trained dancers who have had professional careers, bringing a high level of expertise, experience, and passion to their teaching.
• Welcoming and Supportive Environment: A key highlight, as noted by adult beginner students, is the accepting and kind atmosphere fostered by both instructors and fellow students, dispelling any worries about a "scary" environment.
• Rigorous yet Encouraging Instruction: Instructors are knowledgeable, challenge students effectively without overwhelming them, and provide constructive guidance for improvement.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: From pre-ballet for young children to advanced pointe work and diverse adult classes, the conservatory offers a well-rounded and progressive dance education.
• Emphasis on Dancer Health: Adherence to American Ballet Theatre guidelines for ballet training and dancer health underscores their commitment to student well-being.
• Performance Opportunities: The chance to perform in large-scale productions like the Nutcracker at the Orpheum Theater, alongside professional dancers, is a significant draw for aspiring young artists.
• Dedicated Adult Program: The robust adult program, with various levels and flexible drop-in options, caters specifically to the needs and interests of adult learners, whether for fitness or serious study.

Contact Information:

Address: 920 Terpsichore St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA

Phone: (504) 826-0646

Mobile Phone: +1 504-826-0646

Email: schramelconservatory@gmail.com

For locals in Louisiana, particularly those in the New Orleans area, Schramel Conservatory of Dance stands out as an exceptional choice for dance education. Its direct affiliation with the New Orleans Ballet Theatre provides unparalleled performance opportunities for serious youth dancers, allowing them to gain invaluable stage experience alongside professionals in major productions like the Nutcracker. This unique advantage is a significant draw for families looking for a pathway to pre-professional training.

Beyond the professional track, the conservatory's commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment makes it highly suitable for dancers of all levels and ages. The glowing review from a beginner adult ballet student highlights that the instructors are not only knowledgeable but also kind and accepting, making the learning process enjoyable and motivating. This inclusive atmosphere is crucial for fostering a lifelong love of dance, whether one aspires to a professional career or simply seeks a fulfilling hobby and a unique way to stay active.

The diverse curriculum, encompassing classical ballet, tap, and contemporary dance, along with a dedicated adult program offering various levels and even summer intensives, ensures that there's a place for everyone at Schramel Conservatory. Its prime location in the Lower Garden District also adds to its appeal, making it easily accessible for regular attendance. For any Louisianan looking for top-tier dance instruction within a nurturing community, where passion for movement is celebrated and technical excellence is prioritized, Schramel Conservatory of Dance truly shines as a local gem.

Schramel Conservatory of Dance

920 Terpsichore St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA