Classes
Summer term classes with Cynthia in Sydney @ AMERA'S PALACE starting Sat 28th January!
Cynthia's classes take a comprehensive approach , exploring all aspects of the dance including
movement (technique), rhythm, music, culture, history and performance skills!
Classes for BEGINNERS, BEYOND BEGINNERS and INT/ADVANCED! Details below.
Saturday Morning Classes starting Saturday 28th January 2012
10 week Term
10-11am - Beginners (suitable for absolute beginners)
Throughout this term you will be taught basic technique, basic travelling steps, how to turn, basic interpretation of the music and some basic combinations to build you up towards dancing simple choreographies.
11am-12pm - Beyond Beginners
"Arabic Rhythms, Technique and Combinations"
Throughout this term you will be introduced to the most commonly used rhythms in Middle Eastern/Arabic music. You will learn the names of the rhythms, how they sound and how to identify them in different styles of music. Every week we will focus on a different rhythm whilst learning new dance technique and combinations that we will then apply to the rhythm. These classes are perfect for those of you that really want to start to develop a good general understanding of arabic music and continue to develop a solid foundation in dance technique. Class notes will be provided.
12.15 -1.15pm - Intermediate/Advanced
In Arabic, the word Baladi means “my country” or “my hometown”. Baladi dance is the original women’s solo dance from Egypt and the precursor to and fundamental influence of Raks Sharki (oriental/belly dance). It is the original woman's solo dance. Throughout the classes we will explore Baladi styling, learn technique/movements that capture the earthy elegance and laid back simplicity of this dance. We will learn about the different instruments used as well as break down the formulaic structure of the music by studying progression baladi which includes melodic solos, call and response and fast paced rhythmic build ups! We will explore the female 'awaadi" baladi and compare it to the male Baladi style known as "Tet" baladi or Ahsra baladi (10 part baladi).
We will also touch on Baladi song style.
We will work on musical interpretation, understand and interpret the improvisational nature of baladi taqisim and learn how to express the emotion of the music through your dance and develop your character and solo performance skills. There will be an element of theory in this course. Class notes will be provided. This course is suitable for dancers who really want to delve deeper into Egyptian music, understand its history, structure and emotive qualities to further enhance their overall dancing technique/repertoire.. Its also excellent for teachers of Egyptian dance/bellydance who want to extend their knowledge on this subject.
Classes will take place at the Marrickville studio
For all information about fees, booking, studio location etc.. please visit
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For weekly classes, courses and workshops in London, UK visit:
West London School of Oriental Dance
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Other information:
Private lessons
Student Testimonials
Private Lessons
Cynthia is also available to teach private lessons to individuals or small groups.
Private lessons are tailored to suit your interests and needs, and are available for the absolute beginner or more advanced/professional dancer.
For more information about private lessons, please contact Cynthia.
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Student Testimonials
“I have taken many belly dance classes in London and Cynthia is by far the best teacher around. She has excellent technique and a deep understanding /knowledge of belly dancing. She's a fantastic teacher and pays attention to all her students. She corrects you when you're doing it wrong and praises you when you're doing well because she cares about your progress. Her courses are very well structured and every class is aimed at either learning a new technique or style. Whether you're a beginner or advanced I would definitely recommend her”
Caroline
“I have tried several belly dancing classes over the past few years and even though I had a strong interest in the art of belly dancing the instructor never quite managed to tick all the boxes. I am now on the intermediate level of Cynthia's class on Wednesday evenings and I genuinely look forward to the classes as they have become the highlight of my week. I made new friends, I have a lot of fun, I get a great workout and my physical shape has improved a lot. I feel that I am progressing steadily and I was even able to perform on stage at the last Hafla organised by Cynthia in West London, something I would have never dreamt of doing 2 years ago! Cynthia is an amazing teacher and I strongly recommend her classes.”
Magali
“I have looked around for a long time in Central /West London for a good belly dance teacher. Now I have found Cynthia its GREAT!!!!”
Tracey
“It took me years to find a teacher as thorough, patient and helpful as Cynthia in London. She is not only a skilled teacher, but a creative dancer and thoughtful choreographer. Leaning with Cynthia will ensure you know the dance steps, and the history of those steps. She is a gem”
Annette
“Cynthia's class is exhilarating. I have learned so much in the past few months. Doing a solo performance was my dream come true thanks to my teacher Cynthia who encouraged and inspired me”.
Poppy
'A really positive teaching environment in which learning and enjoyment are a priority. Cynthia is extremely encouraging to all levels of ability and has a wonderful impact on the students, which encourages growth and development' Morveline
“I have been learning belly dancing with Cynthia for the past three years, and have found her teaching style is excellent. She is understanding and approachable, but organised and professional. I would highly recommend these enjoyable classes. They are a brilliant way to keep fit and learn a new art. I never fail to impress my friends with my belly dancing skills.”
Samina
“Cynthia is full of energy. Not only she is a natural dancer but also a great teacher- she makes the belly dancing moves so much easier to learn- It is great fun dancing with her”!
Winky
“I’ve been to a number of belly dance classes and whilst I learnt something from each of them Cynthia’s class is definitely the best for breaking down the moves and explaining them in a way which is easy to grasp. Apart from this she repeats the moves enough times for us to get a thorough grounding. Because she has a huge repertoire of moves and styles we get to learn everything from traditional Egyptian to Modern including stick dance, veil etc…that makes it stimulating. I like the fact that we learn a particular set of moves and we rehearse them through a choreographed dance. But what I like most is the fun we have. We all have a laugh, the atmosphere is really relaxed. It’s like partying with friends every week.” Katie
“Cynthia creates a fun and intuitive atmosphere, she has an amazing and rare ability to make everyone irrespective of age, size shape or skill level to feel comfortable and able in her class. She somehow manages to get the most un-coordinated (me especially) and un-flexible of us circling our hips and shimmying our shoulders in time to music - A first for me!!!”
Sally
“Cynthia's method of teaching is clear and concise - even those who lack natural rhythm and coordination learn the steps in no time at all. Personal attention is given to every single class member until they have mastered the steps. Cynthia encourages everyone to work together - the classes are exciting and fun” Gwendoline