Students can begin pre-ballet and pre-tap when they are as young as three and continue dancing with us into adulthood. Columbia Ballet School students are taught using the Vaganova syllabus for ballet. Young students are carefully observed by the experienced CBS dance instructors. When a young student shows potential either through natural aptitude or strength of attitude, he or she is encouraged to take full advantage of all the programs we have to offer. As students become more experienced with dance, they are placed in classes, based upon ability, and commitment. Class requirements increase with each dance level. Both technique and artistry are stressed. Yearly recital pieces, performed by each class, are intended to challenge the student and to entertain the audience. Many CBS students choose to pursue ballet purely for joy. They take part in and receive the same training and instructor interest as all CBS students. Our drop-in classes gives former dancers a chance to renew their interest or beginners the chance to take up dance in an encouraging, not intimidating, setting. In addition to regular classes, we offer the Columbia Ballet School Studio Company, which has a performance each year. This year, we will produce The Nutcracker on November 22 and 23. Some students also compete in the Youth America Grand Prix and other competitions.