Professional Training Programs
Professional training programs & Studio Company
Pre-PTP 1 & Pre-Ballet
PTP LEVEL 2/3
PTP LEVEL 3/4
STUDIO COMPANY
PTP LEVEL 5/6
Professional Training Program 5/6
The program utilizes the Vaganova Method in which some of the greatest ballet dancers such as Nureyev, Makarova, Baryshnikov, Zakharova, Vasiliev, and Osipova were trained.
The perfection and polishing of the program for the preceding classes, including the mastery of all the basic movements of classical dance. More complex combinations, especially in adagio, allegro and pointe using more complicated musical material. Development of performing artistry and virtuosity. Special work on individual development of each student.
Classes are kept small so that dancers receive the finest quality ballet training in a “semi-private” training environment in which size does not exceed 8 students. This level trains 6 days per week 4 hours per day.
Each student is given an opportunity to learn classical ballet solo variations, contemporary variations, as well as contemporary group pieces and character dances to be performed at a professional venue on a full size stage. The performances take place each winter and spring.
All students will be given the opportunity to compete at regional competitions.
Selected students are also chosen for international ballet competitions.
Private instructions are available by appointment.
The comprehensive PTP 5/6 includes: Classical Technique, Pointe, Repertoire, Character, Contemporary, Pilates, Conditioning and Stretching. Performances on professional stages and Performances in community settings throughout the year.
Housing is available for an additional cost.
Accepts students ages 16-19
Pre-PTP 1 & Pre-Ballet
PTP LEVEL 2/3
PTP LEVEL 3/4
STUDIO COMPANY
PTP LEVEL 5/6
Professional Training Program 3/4
The Professional Training Program utilizes the Vaganova Method in which some of the greatest ballet dancers such as Nureyev, Makarova, Baryshnikov, Zakharova, Vasiliev, and Smirnova were trained.
Classes are kept small so that dancers receive the finest quality ballet training in a “semi-private” training environment in which size does not exceed 8 students. This level trains 5 days per week 3 hours per day.
This level develops the strengthening of stability in all classical ballet movements both on demi-pointe and pointe. Focus is on the mastery of the technique of beats, tours and larger poses. In this level begins the development of plasticity of the arms and body as the combinations become more complex and advanced.
Each student is given an opportunity to learn pieces from the classical repertoire, as well as contemporary group pieces and character dances to be performed at a professional venue on a full-size stage twice a year. Performances in community settings are scheduled throughout the year. Selected students are chosen for national and international ballet competitions.
Private instructions are available by appointment.
The PTP 3/4 includes: Classical Technique, Pointe, Repertoire, Character, Contemporary, Pilates, Conditioning and Stretching.
Accepts students ages 13-15
Pre-PTP 1 & Pre-Ballet
PTP LEVEL 2/3
PTP LEVEL 3/4
STUDIO COMPANY
PTP LEVEL 5/6
Professional Training Program 2/3
The PTP LEVEL 2/3 level offers aspiring young students the opportunity to train in the Vaganova Method with one of our wonderful Vaganova teachers.
The program utilizes the Vaganova Method in which some of the greatest ballet dancers such as Nureyev, Makarova, Baryshnikov, Zakharova, Vasiliev, and Smirnova were trained.
The PTP 2/3 program utilizes intermediate exercises that build on the student’s mastery of the basic stance of the body and the positions of the feet, arms and head and the introduction of big poses. This level introduces the basics of pointe work. More advanced students will start practicing variations on pointe. This class introduces the preparation and development of larger jumps and more movement in preparation for variations and dances. These foundations of classical ballet will be developed through slow and meticulous classes that prepare the students for progress to higher levels of training. Students will learn not only their appropriate level of technique but also proper stretching and strengthening, ballet discipline and etiquette, ballet compositions and contemporary dance. Students will learn solo variations and small/large group dances that require them to master the technique and develop artistry. It also teaches them the necessity of working and dancing together as an ensemble. Students will develop the skills needed to prepare themselves for class and most importantly to cultivate a work ethic.
Classes are kept small so that dancers receive the finest quality ballet training in a “semi-private” training environment. This level has about 16 hours of Technique, Pointe, Repertoire, Contemporary, Character, Pilates, Stretching and Strengthening.
Students will perform at ABA’s shows during the year. Students will participate in competitions at the discretion of the Artistic Director.
Accepts students ages 11-13
The Akhmedova Ballet Academy Studio Company is a new 1–3-year apprentice program that is essential to furthering ABA’s mission. It is for advanced dancers to continue developing their technical ability and artistry before joining a professional company. Studio Company dancers will receive a small stipend per performance.
Housing is available for an additional cost.
During these difficult times, many dancers have been left without jobs. Until they can transition back into a professional company or get their first job, Studio Company dancers will gain performance experience and receive the personal mentoring to fully develop as artists who can realize their dream as professionals with strength and pride in their ability.
Our mission is to prepare promising dancers, age 18-23, for careers in dance companies around the world. This is both a preparation for transitioning students to professional dancers, as well as a continued training and opportunity for older dancers to sustain their career during this difficult time of uncertainty. There has always been uncertainty striking out into the professional world. Even more so now, but this program is necessary in “ordinary” times too. Not everyone lands a job immediately upon graduation, though, Madame has been remarkably successful in setting up the conditions for a graduate to land a professional job.
ABA studio company dancers, under the artistic direction of Jacqueline Akhmedova, will have the opportunities to rigorously train, frequently perform and creatively choreograph. Teaching opportunities will be given under the guidance of the Artistic Director and Senior teachers.
In front of live audience performances depend on the current health crises situation, but videos will be made and shown to a wide audience, such as TV, social media and Zoom. Outdoor performances might be possible in the fall. This program will benefit the Montgomery County community and help further build diversity and inclusion through its engagement. It will give a significant exposure for dancers to connect with a diverse audience and bring dance to local communities and beyond.
Classes will include classical technique, pointe, contemporary, variations, repertoire, character, acting, dance history and theory, Pilates as well as nutrition and injury prevention, preparation for future auditions and company life, resume writing, photo shoots and how to find the company that fits every dancers needs.
All students will be given the opportunity to compete at the Youth America Grand Prix and other regional ballet competitions. Selected students are also chosen for international ballet competitions.