The Process
Gilbert Tap Exams are set up similar to a class and students are required to memorize their steps, exercises and terminology. Some levels (Primary) execute work as a group whereas Grade 1 & up requires independent dancing. I will not be present in the room during the examination and students go in together as a group. Each class is working towards a level that I feel is achievable and I will make individual recommendations based on our progress through the year so far. Please know that I strive to set students up for success and will be honest should I feel a student is not prepared to examine in a positive way.
Exam Dates
Lethbridge Exams are scheduled between June 5th and June7th, 2024 and are normally scheduled during the afternoon between 12pm-4pm. Each session runs between 30-60 minutes and students are required to stay for the duration of the exam block. Our Exams will be held at the Casa Dance Studio and we will ensure that students have both a rehearsal and their practice exam at that location in order to feel prepared for examination day.
Extra Rehearsals
I will be scheduling 2-3 extra lessons between February – May in order to bring exam students together as a group. These extra lessons will focus on polishing their skills, strengthening memorization and developing their individual confidence. We strongly recommend students attend the extra practice times as it provides us extra time to work together outside of our regular class time. We will also provide students at home practice links as an additional way of practicing from home. The more opportunity they have to practice the better! We will also have a practice exam (mock exam) in late April/early May before their actual examination date which will give students a chance to experience the exam setting and also have feedback on their technique and presentation.
Outcome
Exams are a great way for your child to share their work in front of a professional instructor from outside of the studio. They can receive feedback on their progress, while gaining confidence in performance and presentation. It’s also a great way for me, as an instructor, to learn from their development and take feedback that helps me to educate them better moving forward. After the completed exam, students will receive a report card and certificate of completion.
Registration and Fees
Since we have a lot of new students at the studio, we will only be offering Tap Exams to a handful of classes based on technique and student readiness. We recommend discussing this opportunity with your child to see how they feel about it and if it’s something exciting for them. I find that when a student is enthusiastic about the exam process then they will prepare and examine more confidently.
I will continue to assess student progress after the break and then be sending home recommendations for Exams the week of January 15th. We will confirm with eligible students no later than February 1st should your child be recommended to wait until next season to examine.
Exam fees will be due on Thursday February 15th and can be made by e-transfer to info@hapticdancearts.com.
Please note: Exam fees are non-refundable should your child not attend the exam this season however fees can be transferred to the following season for the same grade.
The following classes are eligible for Tap Exams for the 2023/2024 season:
| Regular Class Time | Gilbert Exam Level | Fees (GST included) |
| Friday 2:30 Junior 1 | Grade One | $68.25 |
| Wednesday 4:45 Junior 3 | Grade Two | $73.50 |
| Tuesday 3:15 Pre-Advance | Grade Six | $94.50 |
Please note:
- Exam students will be required to pay their exam fees by February 15th, 2024
- Exam fees are non-refundable however can be transferred to the following year for the same student/grade.
What to wear
Students are required to be performance ready for their examination. This includes hair neatly pulled back, clean bodysuit and no rips or holes in their tights. Students are required to wear the following for their Tap Exam:
– Basic black bodysuit
– Mondor #310 or #314 light tan tights (from Classique Dancewear)
– Hair tidy bun at the back of the head. Shorter hair must be pulled back off the face.
– No nail polish or jewelry allowed
I look forward to preparing students for our 2024 Gilbert Tap Exams.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
Thank you for your consideration!
Haptic Dance Arts 