Aims
The aim of the National Dance Faculty is to bring the
joy of European Folk Dance to all age levels. Folk dance
develops a sense of community and awareness of others.
The dancers have the opportunity to study traditional
dances, costumes, music and customs.
The
syllabus is wide in range and choice. It is designed
to suit all teaching situations, embracing the National
Curriculum, Community Dance, Dance Degrees and Ethnic
studies. This leads to its creative use both in the
classroom and the theatre. Folk Dance is important in
the present dance scene and all aspects are covered
within the National Dance Faculty.
Folk
Dance Studies
The studies are a form of assessment for any age or
ability. The dances are all traditional Folk Dances
and the choice of countries can include European and
Non-European. With each unit the dancers prepare projects
on any aspect of the chosen country.
Grade
Examinations
(Primary – Grade IV)
The
Grades can be taken in two ways:
a) Folk
b) National Character
Folk
Grades are similar to class tests with the teacher conducting
the examination. All the dances chosen are traditional
folk dances. National Character Grades blend traditional
folk dances with a choreographed solo and group arrangement
based on a folk theme or custom.
Dancers
Medal Tests
(Junior and Senior, Bronze, Silver, Gold and Gold Star)
The
Medal Tests are designed purely as performance awards.
Solos are arranged using traditional steps, music, patterns
and themes. Style, performance, rhythm and musicality
are taken into consideration.
Teaching
Qualifications
(Associate, Associate Diploma, Licentiate, Licentiate
Diploma, Fellowship)
The
teaching qualifications provide the candidate with a
thorough knowledge of European Folk Dance and its application.
On
successfully completing an Associate Diploma the candidate
will become a fully registered member of the ISTD. |
