Specialty Class-Workshop Series

Specialty Workshop Class Series

This is an extension of the our workshop series started in 2007. These monthly workshop classes feature exciting topics to help you enhance your dance and music knowledge, experiment with new styles, learn to use new props, and take your dancing to the next level. Because we're committed to bringing you the best, each class is taught by an experienced regional teacher who is recognized for her expertise in the style or technique presented.

	Monthly Specialty Workshop Class Series
	Unless otherwise noted, Sundays, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. (2 hours), Instructors vary. Studio: Minneapolis-Sun Room
	One workshop scheduled each month resuming September, 2008. Advanced registration is recommended to ensure space and materials. Please see specific workshop class descriptions below. PLEASE NOTE: Advanced registration is recommended, but if you cannot register in advance, an email reservation is strongly recommended to ensure sufficient space and materials (some workshops have handouts or other materials), and also to ensure that you are notified if there are any late-breaking changes or adjustments (e.g. changes due to weather or instructor illness, additional facility information, etc.) If you plan to attend but are not able to register in advance, email your name, email address, phone number, and best way to contact you to info@aalimschool.com to reserve your spot. Walk-ins without reservation will be accommodated as space permits, but in the case of workshops with size limits, enrollment priority will be: 1. registered (prepaid) students, 2. students with email reservations, 3. walk-ins.
	*Click here for registration form*

Fees:

	Single class/workshop	$20
	5-class Workshop Card	$80 ($16 per workshop)

* Workshop Cards are good for 1 full year from the date of purchase.

Specialty Workshop Classes - 2008-2009 Season

Please note: We're still in the process of finalizing our fall workshop schedule, and will add winter and spring workshops as they are confirmed. Check out the Aalim School instructor page for instructor biographies.

* We want to hear from you too! What kinds of workshop classes do you want to see? Write mirah@aalimschool.com with your suggestions.

September 21	HOT Latin Fusion for Belly Dance with Sana (Joanna Lessard)
	Latin music is a common source of rhythmic and instrumental fusion inspiration for Arabic music, which creates great potential for Latin dance and belly dance fusion! But how do you ensure you understand the rhythms and steps appropriately to truly make a good fusion dance? Learn about some of the Latin music rhythms, dance steps, and feeling essential to Latin dance, especially those most commonly used with Arabic music. Sana will guide you through steps, timing and techniques, styling, arm and hand movements and help you get to the root of that authentic "Latin" feeling. This class is taught by a certified ballroom and Latin dance instructor with more than 12 years experience teaching Latin and ballroom dance who also happens to be an accomplished belly dancer and member of the Al-Bahira Dance theater performance troupe.
	Important note: At least one session of belly dance experience is strongly recommended.
October 5	Drum Solos that POP! Dynamic Technique and Combos with Mirah Ammal
	Drum solos are key for any dancer--when the interplay between the rhythm of the music and the movement in the dancer's body is right, it takes on a life of its own! In this class we'll explore techniques and tips for creating dynamic drum solo performances, plus dramatic combinations and accents. We'll also explore various pops, releases, a vocabulary of shimmies and vibrations, and other critical techniques for great drum solos.

November 16	Dramatic Veil Intensive with Azzuri Mraz
	Create drama, mystique, and sumptuous visuals with impecable veil technique! In this workshop, Azzuri will teach special technique, timing, and transitions to bring your entrances and veil dances to the next level. Learn fun combinations you can incorporate into your own dancing. (Music for veil work may also be addressed.) Known for her gorgeous veilwork, Azzuri Mraz is a former instructor with Bozenka's Bellydance Academy and performer with Bozenka's dance troupe, and she was recently a featured artist teaching her Veil Intensive workshop in Miami, FL. Azzuri's dance style combines power with incredible grace, and influences from various styles of dance.

December 7	TWO Great workshops! Drum Rhythms and Technique I (1:00-3:00) with Dr. Dave Drum Rhythms and Technique II (3:30-5:30) with Dr. Dave
	"The rhythm of the drums is at the heartbeat of the music and of the people." ~Unknown. Drums are the most essential building block behind Arabic and belly dance music. As a dancer, learning these rhythms and developing at least a rudimentary skill playing them yourself is invaluable! Plus, it’s fun for non-dancers too! Workshop I covers basic Arabic tabla technique and some of most common rhythms. Perfect for beginners and first-time drummers. Workshop II covers additional rhythms, more complex variations, and other techniques.