UPPER SCHOOL-GRADES 9-12

New Dance Program Flourishes in Upper School

Level I course focuses on an introduction to all aspects of dance. The students will learn a variety of technical dance styles with an emphasis on creative movement and improvisation. Students are introduced to the five basic elements of dance. These elements are explored through a sampling of Jazz, Modern and Ballet techniques and improvisation. Courses introduces devices for creating original choreography, basic anatomy for the dancer, and dance notation and history.

Level II course is a more in-depth study of dance technique, improvisation and composition working toward mastery of skills and a greater dance vocabulary in all aspects of dance. Students will continue studying leading choreographers and their influence on the dance world. A stronger emphasis will be placed on choreography. Students will be challenged to create original work to be presented in a variety of informal performances throughout the semester.

Dance teacher Andrew Jannetti was born and raised in South Philadelphia. He began his informal dance training at a young age by winning twist contests in his neighborhood. His formal dance training started at Montclair State University where he received a BA in Speech and Theater (Dance Specialization). After graduating he moved to New York City, where he has been dancing, choreographing, and teaching ever since.

In addition to teaching dance at the Academy, Mr. Janetti, has been performing with his own dance company, Andrew Jannetti & Dancers, since 1982. He has also performed with Claire Porter, Claudia Gittleman, Alan Danielson, Mimi Garrard, Phyllis Rose, Mary Spalding, Loretta DiBianca, Judy Levine, Plath/Taucher Productions and was stage manager for the 1996 Olympic Torch Relay between New York and New Jersey. He was an Artist in Residence for four seasons at the Fort Wayne Dance Collective in Fort Wayne, Indiana and a guest choreographer at the College of Staten Island, CUNY and with the Island Moving Company of Newport, Rhode Island.