Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! We offer a discounted trial lesson for new students at $75 (studio) or $95 (in-home). This allows you to experience our teaching style, discuss your goals, and ensure we're the right fit before committing to a package. The trial lesson is a full 60-minute session with personalized instruction. Book your trial lesson today.

Absolutely! Over 60% of our adult students are complete beginners. We specialize in making ballet accessible and enjoyable for adults at any fitness level. Our adult beginner curriculum focuses on proper technique, flexibility, strength, and the joy of movement. Many students start in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond. Learn more about adult ballet classes.

For your first lesson, wear comfortable workout clothes that allow freedom of movement - leggings and a fitted top work perfectly. Ballet shoes are recommended but not required initially; socks are fine for beginners. As you progress, we can recommend where to purchase proper ballet attire and shoes in San Diego. Professional dancewear is never required for recreational students.

We offer ballet instruction for students ages 3 and up through adults. Our programs include: Pre-Ballet (ages 3-5), Primary Ballet (ages 6-8), Elementary Ballet (ages 9-12), Teen Ballet (ages 13-17), and Adult Ballet (18+). Each age group follows an age-appropriate curriculum designed to build proper technique while keeping classes engaging and fun. Explore our youth programs.

Private lessons offer personalized attention, customized pacing, and focused correction specific to your body and goals. You'll progress faster with individual instruction. Group classes provide social interaction and a shared energy but less individual attention. Many students combine both: private lessons for technique and group classes for repertoire. Learn about our private lesson options.

We primarily teach classical ballet based on the Cecchetti Method, known for its anatomical approach and systematic progression. We also incorporate elements of Balanchine technique for musicality and contemporary ballet for artistic expression. Our versatile approach ensures students develop a well-rounded technique.

Pointe work is available for intermediate and advanced students who have developed sufficient strength and technique, typically after 2-3 years of consistent training. We conduct thorough pointe readiness assessments. Pre-pointe conditioning classes help students build the necessary strength. Adult beginners can work towards pointe if desired.

Absolutely. Ballet is excellent for building core strength, improving posture, increasing flexibility, and developing long, lean muscles. We can work with physical therapists' recommendations for students recovering from injuries. Our gentle approach focuses on proper alignment and controlled movements for overall fitness.

Private lessons start at $90/hour (studio) and $110/hour (in-home). We offer 5-lesson and 10-lesson package discounts. View our complete pricing guide.

We require 24-hour notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Lessons cancelled with less than 24 hours notice are charged in full. We offer one "grace" cancellation per month for emergencies with 12 hours notice.

We serve most of San Diego County, including La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas, Carlsbad, Carmel Valley, and more. Our typical travel radius is 20 miles from central San Diego. Find lessons near you.

No barre required! We bring a portable barre or use sturdy furniture. All you need is a clear space of about 8x8 feet.

Chiara Valle is a professional dancer with City Ballet of San Diego and has over 10 years of teaching experience. She holds a BA in Dance from UCLA, is trained in the Cecchetti Method, and is certified in injury prevention. Read Chiara's full bio.

Yes! We host an optional annual student showcase and connect students with local performance opportunities. Performance is never required but highly encouraged for those interested.