FAQ About Online Classes
Frequently Asked Questions
About Online Classes at Amy Novinski Ballet Class
Which level is right for me?
Everyone who comes to my classes has a different relationship with ballet, whether they did it as a child and then stopped, danced professionally, or picked it up for the first time as an adult. No matter who you are and where you’re coming from there is a class that will suit you best. My Class Descriptions Guide has a handy description for each class so that you can self reflect on your own experience and evaluate for yourself where you would feel most comfortable. If you’re unsure between two levels, I always recommend to err on the side of caution and go for the lower of the two levels. It’s better to walk away from your first class saying “I think I need more of a challenge, I’m going to try the next level up” rather than “I’m not sure I’m going to be able to walk tomorrow!” Rest assured that if I feel a dancer is misplaced I will speak with them privately to give my professional opinion.
Is there a dress code?
There is no specific dress code but dancers should consider wearing clothes that are form-fitting, comfortable, and allow me to see their lines clearly. Hair should be secured off of the face and neck, bunned or otherwise secured as is appropriate. This is to ensure that long hair does not injure or physically impact your practice. It is best practice to not wear dangly jewelry or wrist jewelry during class for your own safety and the safety of those around you. Ballet shoes are required for in person studio Ballet classes and recommended for online classes. You can find these (called technique shoes) at local or online dancewear retailers.
If you are attending a non-Ballet practice class (ex. Yoga, or Reiki Infused Movement) please come dressed in clothing you feel comfortable moving in and allows for you to focus on your breath and not your attire. Some classes require you to bring yoga mats, please read the Class Descriptions Guide for more information on apparel or equipment.
What do I need for my home studio?
To get the most out of your home studio it helps to choose a cleared space where you can freely move. You will need a barre of some sort professional or otherwise. A barre should be a sturdy apparatus that you can place your hand on at about elbow height (higher is ok, lower is less desired). This apparatus should not be used if it can tip over. Good examples of makeshift barres are : kitchen countertop, back of a sturdy dining room chair, a stable ironing board that is open. Your experience will be best on a hardwood or linoleum floor surface, carpet can be used as well but is not advised.
The barre that I use is from Vita Vibe, the floor that I use is from Harlequin (the size dance mat I use is not currently in stock from what I can tell).
How do I take class on Zoom?
You’ll need a laptop, smart phone, or tablet with an internet connection, webcam, and speakers. When you register for a class on Zoom you will receive a “meeting link” in an email to the address you listed at registration. You need to download Zoom (a free app) to your device. You do not need to create an account on Zoom. Before class begins you can join the class by clicking on the link provided. The meeting host will put you in the “waiting room” until the class begins. When you are let into the meeting I will guide you the rest of the way!
A helpful tip to get the most out of your Zoom class : make sure that your web camera can capture you in full from head to toe. The best angle for your teacher to see you is a profile angle. Lighting is best when it is coming from the same wall as the web camera, avoid lighting yourself from behind. If you feel that you are too far from the screen to learn the combination you can project your device onto a larger screen or simply approach the screen when the combination is being taught and then return to your barre when the music begins.
I’m nervous to have my camera on, is it required?
Your health and safety are priority and if that includes not having your web camera on for class, that’s totally okay. It can be a lot to potentially let others into your safe space or home during class. Please do know that once class has begun most students are focused only on themselves, just as you will be! The benefits of keeping your web camera on is that your instructor can make corrections to your form and practice which will help you to improve and practice good habits.
What if I have a question during class?
For Zoom classes there will be a chance to ask questions after the class has concluded. If your question is about a technical or Zoom problem please chat privately with the participant labeled “Host” using the Chat feature at the bottom of the screen. For pre-recorded classes in the Library you can send an email at any time.
What if I can’t make it to any of the live classes?
Time zones, jobs, children, and other priorities are hurdles you can leap over in your training (insert Grand Saut de Chat joke). This is why I offer monthly memberships to my Online Class Library. You’ll have 24/7 access to all my recorded classes with classes being added every week. To become a member click on the link above.
when do class cards expire and can i buy a class card for someone else?
Class Cards of all denominations expire 1 year after purchase date. Please use this information in making your decision about which card is right for you and/or how many class cards to purchase.
Class cards are a great gift for the dance student in your life. Each card is printable/sharable and comes with a unique code to use for class registration if you choose. When registering for a given class, choose the level, date, and time and at checkout enter your unique code in lieu of payment. Your class card will automatically deduct one class from your class card.
I had to cancel my class, can i get a refund?
We do not offer refunds.