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. |