Fundamentals is the Key to Being an Advanced Level Dancer
This past week we had the absolute pleasure of teaching the first Advanced Teacher Training course in several years. This completely revamped curriculum was so satisfying to see come to fruition as Carolena, Kelley and I had been working on it for such a long time.
The students ROCKED it. They showed up with humility, vulnerability, open hearts and open minds. The connections made will for sure be lifelong friendships and I wouldn't be surprised if we start seeing collaborations among them in our community.
Without revealing too much, I can share that each student embraced their strengths, supported each other through challenges, and collectively created something truly magical.
We are immensely proud of every one of them.
Do you know what all of these dancers have in common?
Their love of fundamentals (aka Level One).
That's right—the most advanced level dancers and instructors cherish fundamentals. They understand the significance of repetition, the confidence that comes from mastering base movements, and the dynamic nature of advanced steps and concepts built on solid foundational skills.
This month, we're spotlighting our programs by level, starting with Level One: our Fundamentals of FCBD®Style.
Our Level One program offers over 30 classes designed to guide you through the fundamentals in the same order as originally taught by Carolena at her San Francisco studio. In this program, you’ll not only take classes with Carolena from the FCBD® studio but also benefit from additional courses that enhance your learning with more details, drills, and lectures.
PLUS, you can download our recently updated workbook to enhance your learning and track your progress!
As a student, these programs are invaluable and you'll find yourself returning to them time and again.
As a teacher, these classes are GOLD. You get to learn from advanced level instructors and observe new teaching concepts by seeing how classes are conducted and the language used by instructors. Many teachers find inspiration and motivation by taking related classes on fcbdU before teaching them in their studio.
As a bonus, if your students also use FCBDU to practice between your classes, they will develop a deeper level of trust in you and your instruction, as they will be practicing and hearing consistent teachings.
What better way to ensure that you are spreading your love of FCBD®Style with the level of accuracy, professionalism, and joy that we experienced with our recent T4T and ATT graduates?!
Each of our programs will take time. We aren’t recommending them each be completed in a week or even several months. Remember it’s not about a timeline or perfection. It’s about being present, practicing mindfully, and enjoying the process.
Below is a course listing of our Level One Program:
History of FCBD® Style
Gratitude Meditation
Anatomy of Dance Posture
Figure 8 (Taxeem)
Wrist Rotation (Floreo)
Duet Formation
Arm Undulations
Swivel Step (Egyptian)
Finger Cymbals (Zils)
Trio Formation
Bodywave
Rhythmic Undulation (Arabic)
Layering Wrist Rotation (Floreo) with Figure 8 (Taxeem) and Bodywave
Torso Twist and Turns
Pivot Bump and Choo Choo
Flock of Birds
Corkscrew Turn
Propeller Turn
Circle Step
Shimmy
Quartet Formation
Single Bump
Double Bump
Reach and Sit
Reverse Turn
(Chico) Four Corners
Box Step
Fade
Chorus