RAD Exams & Competitions
3 TYPES OF RAD EXAMS
1. COMPETITIVE EXAMS
Also know as RAD Examinations are by special invitation from the teacher. The student will be competitively judged and critiqued by the examiner. The student must not only have the syllabus memorized but consistently show a “HIGH” technical standard to pass for their grade level. Their weight placement, ability to perform, core stability, coordination, line requirements for their grade level requires very little intervention/correction from the teacher. Student must be able to deal will with the pressure of performing alone in front of an examiner for solo performances. Almost Perfect attendance. Has a minimum of 2-3 years training and has experience taking a non competitive exam.
The Director of the Ballet Program in consultation with ballet faculty will determine whether a student is entered for competitive or non-competitive exams. A certificate and medal is awarded to successful candidates.
40 – 54 marks constitutes a Pass Grade
55 – 74 constitutes a Merit Grade
75 – 100 constitutes a Distinction Grade. (*see below)
Uk marking systems are very high compared to USA, a pass is considered a successful mark.
2. NON - COMPETITIVE EXAMS
Also known as Class Awards are for a student who
a) Achieves “SUFFICIENT” technical standard and is attending the required # of classes a week.
b) Performs the required syllabus from memory
c) Prefers to perform with other children instead of solos (participation in all recitals/shows & other performance opportunities helps with this)
d) Almost perfect attendance (except for sick days)
e) Has completed 1 year of training with us.
f) Non - competitive exams are available from Pre-Primary to Grade 5
The Director of the Ballet Program in consultation with ballet faculty will determine whether a student is entered for competitive or non-competitive exams. A certificate and medal is awarded to successful candidates.
PASS / INSUFFICIENT marks constitutes this grade level results
3. DEMONSTRATION EXAMS
Also known as Demonstration Class Awards are for a students of Tiny Tutus A & B
a) Tiny Tutus A must be Age 3 before December. Tiny Tutus B must be Age 4 before December.
b) Can demonstrate the “Dance to your own Tune” RAD Preschool syllabus in
Fundamental movements - movement quality - elements of music - expressing emotion.
c) Can Follow instructions from a teacher without parental intervention.
d) Parents are partners with the studio in helping their child learn boundaries, acceptable behavior
and social skills.
The Children and teacher will enter the exam together. The children will Demonstrate the required movements in the form of a class in front of an examiner. Students will receive a Diploma from the RAD and a recognition medal from our school to reward their bravery and ability at such a young age.
RAD CERTIFICATES AND MEDALS
These awards provide proof that candidates have attained an international standard in classical dance appropriate to their age. The certificate from the RAD is a highly prized addendum to a student’s college application as it demonstrates that students have been diligently committed to working towards a high standard of achievement in the arts, in addition to their school activities. The Royal Academy of Dance is an internationally recognized organization that provides a certification program in classical ballet. With over 15,500 members’ spread across 82 countries, the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is one of the largest and most influential dance education and training organizations in the world.
*exceptions to this are at the discretion of the ballet mistress where in rare circumstances the child shows fast progress and ability beyond what is the norm.
COMPETITIONS
THE DANCE CHALLENGE USA
Is a multi-level competition, it is open to all RAD students from Grade 4 & up to the age of 19 years. Competitors must be studying with an RAD Registered Teacher.
The competition takes place over two days in San Jose. On day 1 students take a non-syllabus class focused on technique followed by a second class that will consist of a run through of competition pieces with feedback from the competition faculty member. On day 2, competitors take a warm up class followed by dress rehearsal. That afternoon competitors perform their solos and ensembles in front of an adjudicator from the dance profession and audience followed by the presentation of certificates, prizes and awards. Candidates are judged on their performance of a ballet solo, or ensemble choreographed by their RAD teacher.
YAGP (Youth American Grand Prix)
Students in Vocation Levels Intermediate - Advanced who are achieving a high performance and technical standard will be invited to compete in the Youth American Grand Prix Dance competition annually.
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