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BAY BALLET ACADEMY STUDIOS

2452 Almaden Rd., San Jose, CA 95125
Tel. E-mail:
www.bayballet.com

Rebranding

Exciting News: Introducing Our New Name – Ballet San Jose School

As part of our exciting new chapter, we are pleased to announce that we will be rebranding to better reflect our mission and make it easier for prospective students to find us. After much thought and consideration, we are officially transitioning to Ballet San Jose School.

This change marks a significant milestone as we continue to grow, expand our programs, and reach more members of our community. Our new name represents our commitment to excellence in ballet education and our deep connection to the vibrant San Jose arts scene.

Why the Change?

Our decision to rebrand comes after careful reflection on how we can better serve our students and audience. By adopting the name Ballet San Jose School, we are simplifying our identity and creating a more cohesive presence for both current and future students, families, and arts enthusiasts. The new name will allow us to better represent the heart of our school and the city we proudly call home.

What to Expect

In the coming weeks, we will be rolling out our new branding, which includes an updated logo and a refreshed website. The rebranding will officially take place shortly after our Nutcracker performances. We’re excited to bring this new identity to life, and we’re committed to ensuring a seamless transition for all our students, families, and partners.

  • New Website: Look for a more user-friendly website with easier navigation and up-to-date information on classes, auditions, events, and more.
  • New Branding: Our new logo and visual identity will help reflect the dynamic, world-class ballet education we provide.

Our Mission Remains the Same

While our name and visual identity are changing, our core mission remains steadfast. Ballet San Jose School will continue to offer exceptional ballet training for dancers of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to nurturing creativity, discipline, and artistry remains at the heart of everything we do.

Stay Connected

We’ll be sharing more details about the transition over the next few weeks, including when our new website and branding will go live. In the meantime, we invite you to stay connected with us on social media for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses of our journey.

Thank you for your continued support as we move into this exciting new phase. We look forward to welcoming you to Ballet San Jose School!

Intermediate Advanced Adult Ballet Class

Elevating Your Ballet Practice: Intermediate-Advanced Classes for Adults with Ballet Experience

Ballet is a journey, not a destination—and for those who have already felt the transformative power of this art form, the quest for mastery only intensifies. As adults with previous ballet experience, you might find yourself standing at a crossroads: how do you continue to elevate your technique, deepen your artistry, and push the boundaries of what you thought was possible in your body? An intermediate-advanced ballet class is where the real work begins, and where your passion for the art form takes on new dimensions.

Why Intermediate-Advanced Ballet?

At this stage, ballet is no longer just about memorizing steps. The intermediate-advanced level challenges you to fully integrate technique with artistry. Your focus shifts from simply executing movements to expressing emotion through each gesture. It’s about mastering the intricacies of pirouettes, perfecting your jump heights, and perhaps even diving into more complex partnering work. But above all, it’s about pushing through plateaus, letting go of perfectionism, and embracing the freedom that comes with mastery.

As an adult dancer, this is where you begin to explore what you’re truly capable of. You have the foundation, the muscle memory, and the understanding of the fundamental movements. Now, it’s time to refine them to a level where each movement feels like a perfect extension of your body. It’s about embracing the challenge and making it your own.

The Importance of Proper Technique and Alignment

At the intermediate-advanced level, attention to detail becomes paramount. Even the smallest shift in alignment or weight distribution can make all the difference in the fluidity of a movement. Whether it’s finding the perfect balance in a pirouette or ensuring a seamless transition through an adagio, the pursuit of flawless technique is constant.

One of the most common challenges for dancers at this level is avoiding bad habits that can creep in when performing more complex steps. Regularly checking in with your instructor and maintaining a strong self-awareness in class will help you keep improving and avoid injury.

Focus on key elements like core engagement, proper placement, and maintaining the correct line in each movement. Whether you’re executing a grand plié or preparing for a fouetté, the precision with which you perform these movements sets the foundation for greater technical mastery.

Overcoming Plateaus and Building Strength

It’s normal to feel as if your progress slows down as you reach higher levels of ballet. Plateaus are part of the process—whether it’s struggling to land a perfect fouetté or finding consistency in your jumps. The key is to break the cycle through smart training: cross-training to build strength, flexibility, and endurance; working on mental visualization techniques to perfect difficult steps; or simply refining the basics again to rebuild a strong foundation.

Cross-training can make a huge difference, especially as you’re developing the strength to hold positions for longer durations or to push higher in your jumps. Activities like yoga, Pilates, or strength training can target areas that complement your ballet technique and prevent injury. Additionally, working on mental toughness through visualization or mindfulness techniques can help you stay focused and positive, even when you hit a rough patch.

The Power of Artistic Expression

Ballet, especially at an intermediate-advanced level, is as much about the mind and spirit as it is about the body. At this stage, you are invited to take risks and experiment with how you bring your own voice to the art form. It’s not just about getting the steps right; it’s about telling a story through your movements, embodying the music, and expressing your inner emotions with every leap and pirouette.

The artistry of ballet at this level is an invitation to explore your personal interpretation of the dance. Yes, technique is essential—but it’s what you bring to the stage or studio that makes your performance unique. Whether you’re working on a solo variation or dancing in a larger ensemble, embrace the freedom of expression that comes with years of training.

What to Expect in an Intermediate-Advanced Class

In an intermediate-advanced class, you can expect a faster pace with more challenging combinations. The barre work will be longer, incorporating more complex phrases that focus on strength, stability, and fluidity. You’ll likely move through exercises quickly, transitioning from one combination to the next with minimal rest to build stamina and focus.

The center work will challenge your turns, jumps, and pirouettes, requiring not only technical precision but also strength and control. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to try more difficult variations or combinations you haven’t done before—this is where you start to break new ground in your technique. The pace will be brisk, and there may be fewer breaks, so expect to push your limits in both strength and focus.

You’ll also receive more individual feedback from your instructor, who will fine-tune your technique and guide you through the more intricate aspects of your training. Make sure to embrace this feedback and use it to improve your performance. Each correction is an opportunity to grow.

Final Thoughts: The Ongoing Journey of Mastery

No matter where you are in your ballet journey, the pursuit of excellence is never a linear path. Each class, each performance, and each moment in the studio is an opportunity for growth. Ballet at the intermediate-advanced level is about refining your technique, embracing artistry, and—most importantly—continuing to love the process of becoming the best dancer you can be.

The beauty of ballet is that it’s never really about reaching perfection; it’s about evolving and continually finding new ways to express yourself through movement. So, step into your next class with confidence, give your all, and let the magic of ballet continue to inspire you.

Ready to take your ballet practice to the next level?

Sign up for one of our intermediate-advanced ballet classes today and join a community of passionate dancers, all while being taught by Maximo Califano, our Ballet Director and main dance teacher. With over 30 years of dance experience, Maximo has an extensive background as a former Principal Ballet Dancer for **Ballet San Jose**, and has performed on stages in the most renowned cities and classical ballet theaters worldwide.

Whether you’re refining your skills or pushing through plateaus, Maximo’s expertise and guidance will help you elevate your technique and artistry. Don’t wait—embrace the challenge and continue your ballet journey with us!

Beginner Adult Ballet Class

Beginner Adult Ballet Class in San Jose

Unlock Your Potential: Join Our New Adult Ballet Class!

Have you ever dreamed of dancing across the floor like the graceful ballerinas you admire? Or maybe you just want to feel stronger, more confident, and connected to your body in a new way? Now’s your chance! Our Adult Ballet Class is designed just for you—whether you’re completely new to ballet or looking to rekindle your love for movement.

Led by Maximo, a seasoned ballet instructor with over 25 years of teaching experience, our beginner-friendly classes will guide you through the fundamentals of ballet while helping you build flexibility, strength, and confidence—one plié at a time!

Alora Bell is an instructor at Bay Ballet Academy. Our new ballet school in San Jose teaches students of all ages and skill levels.
Alora Bell is an instructor at Bay Ballet Academy. Our new ballet school in San Jose teaches students of all ages and skill levels.

Why Ballet? The Benefits Are Endless!

When you step into a ballet class, you’re not just learning to dance—you’re giving your body and mind a powerful boost. Here’s what you can expect from our Adult Ballet classes:

  • Flexibility: Ballet is a fantastic way to stretch your body, increase your range of motion, and improve your overall flexibility—helping you move with ease in everyday life.
  • Body Awareness: Ballet encourages mindfulness of your body’s alignment, posture, and movement. This awareness helps with balance and coordination, both on and off the dance floor.
  • Confidence: Every plié, every leap, and every grand jeté builds not just physical strength but inner strength. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become in your body’s abilities.
  • Stress Relief: Ballet is a full-body workout that also acts as a mental escape. With each class, you’ll find yourself letting go of stress, focusing on the music, and embracing the joy of movement.

What to Expect in Class

In Maximo’s class, you’ll be guided through fundamental exercises, learning the grace and discipline of ballet while having fun every step of the way. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and supportive—ideal for adults who are looking to try something new, meet new people, and explore their passion for dance. We keep the vibe lighthearted but challenging, so you can push yourself to new heights while enjoying the journey!

Whether you’re here to enhance your fitness, tap into your creative side, or simply try something new, you’ll leave each class feeling energized, refreshed, and proud of the progress you’re making.

Why Wait? Your Ballet Journey Begins Today!

Take the first step towards a stronger, more confident you. Join us and experience the magic of ballet for yourself! Sign up today by giving us a call or sending us an email to reserve your spot.

Ready to Dance?
Visit www.bayballet.com/schedule to check out our class schedule and sign up today!

New Ballet Class – Ballet I (ages 5 to 6) Dance San Jose

NEW BALLET LESSONS

new ballet class
Try our new ballet class for ages 5 to 6 years on Tuesdays at 4:30pm for free. No experience needed!

We just added a new ballet class for ages 5 to 6 years old on Tuesdays at 4:30pm. No experience is required to join this dance lesson. Please, contact us if you would like to try the class for free.
Visit our class schedule here: bayballet.com/schedule

Adult Ballet Classes for Beginners in San Jose CA

Adult Ballet Classes for Beginners 

Tuesdays & Thursdays at 6:30 pm to 7:30 with Alora Bell

Our Adult Ballet Beginner Classes are designed for adults and teens who have a passion and desire to learn ballet but have no prior dance experience. The class is taught in a welcoming and friendly environment, with individualized instruction and attention, which exposes you to the basic fundamentals of ballet in a comfortable and easy-going class setting. This dance class will cover the basic body positions, core ballet exercises and terms such as pliés and tendus, and proper body alignment and posture. These concepts are incorporated into a full ballet class with exercises at the barre, in the center and moving across the floor. Students will also learn their vocabulary while covering new movements and positions.

Please, contact us to schedule your class: www.bayballet.com/contact

Bay Ballet Academy Nutcracker
Bay Ballet Academy, Maximo Califano, and adult students from Academy performing in our Nutcracker production. We welcome everyone to learn to dance ballet in our new Adult Teen Beginner Ballet Class.

 

Toddler Ballet Class

Toddler Ballet Class

Wednesdays from 5:45pm to 6:30pm

Saturdays from 10:00am to 10:45am

Our toddler ballet class for ages 3 to 4 years old is the perfect introduction to dance and ballet. Little ones explore the discipline of ballet with our new creative dance class. Children in this program are taught basic ballet steps and some of the French terminology of ballet. The class emphasizes listening skills, paying attention, and having fun. Students then advance to Ballet I, Ballet II and so on, all the while focusing on technique and strength.

Please, contact us to schedule your free trial class: www.bayballet.com/contact

Bay Ballet Academy Pre-Ballet Class
Bay Ballet Academy Pre-Ballet Class ages 3 to 4 years old.