New to the Conservatory Competition Team?

We’re so glad you’re here.

Joining the Conservatory Competition Team means becoming part of a program that goes beyond weekly classes. Our goal is to provide dancers with high-quality training, meaningful performance opportunities, and a structured environment that encourages growth, discipline, confidence, and teamwork.

For families, this is also a commitment—one that comes with clear expectations, communication, and a shared investment in your dancer’s development. This page is designed to help you understand what to expect and how our program is structured.

If you haven’t yet, please fill out your audition interest form below!

What Parents Should Know

Competition team dancers participate in a more structured and involved program than recreational classes. Families should be prepared for:

  • Weekly technique classes and rehearsals

  • Required attendance and consistent participation

  • Competition weekends (regional and/or national events)

  • Financial commitments including tuition, costumes, and competition-related fees

  • Additional time commitments for rehearsals and performances throughout the season

We value clear communication and will provide schedules, expectations, and updates to help families stay organized and informed.

 

Competition Levels & Expectations

Placement in our competition program is determined by faculty and is based on a dancer’s age, technical ability, experience, maturity, and commitment. Each level carries specific training and performance expectations:

Comp 1

  • Training Schedule: 2–3 days per week at the studio

  • Events: 2 competitions + 1 convention

Comp 1 is designed for dancers who are new to the competition environment. The focus is on building strong fundamentals, gaining confidence, and becoming comfortable with rehearsals, performance expectations, and the structure of a team-based program. No solos, duets or trios are offered in this program.

Foundation

  • Training Schedule: 2–3 days per week at the studio

  • Events: 2 competitions + 1 convention

Foundation continues to build on core technique while increasing consistency and performance quality. Dancers at this level are expected to demonstrate growing responsibility, focus, and commitment while developing stronger technical and artistic skills. No solos are offered in this program.

Momentum

  • Training Schedule: 3–4 days per week at the studio

  • Events:

    • 2 conventions/competitions

    • 2 additional competitions (competition-only events)

Momentum is for dancers who are ready for a more intensive training schedule. This level places a stronger emphasis on technical advancement, performance execution, and consistency across multiple styles. Dancers are expected to manage a higher level of commitment both in and out of the studio.

Excel

  • Training Schedule: 5–6 days per week at the studio

  • Events:

    • 4 conventions/competitions

    • 2 additional competitions (competition-only events)

Excel is our most advanced and committed level. Dancers at this level train at a pre-professional pace, with a strong focus on technical mastery, artistry, stamina, and performance quality. Excel dancers are expected to demonstrate leadership, consistency, discipline, and a high level of personal responsibility.