Frequently Asked Questions
ADULT PROGRAMS
Which adult class is right for me?
The Dalcroze School of Music and Movement (DSM) Professional Studies Program offers a variety of programming for adult musicians, dancers, educators, and therapists at all skill levels. It is an accredited training program within the Dalcroze Society of America.
The DSM Enrichment Program is designed for adult students who are seeking enrichment through Dalcroze Eurhythmics study and those who are seeking professional development through the Professional Studies Program. The curriculum is focused on the students' wants and needs; students are encouraged to suggest class subjects they find stimulating. Educators of all kinds will find specific ideas to try out in their classrooms, group classes, or private lessons.
The DSM Professional Studies Program is designed for students who are looking to further their understanding of music and movement on a deeper level and for those interested in pursuing the internationally recognized Dalcroze Certificate and eventually, the Dalcroze License. The DSM professional studies program also provides opportunities for long-distance study including lessons via Skype and weekend workshop intensives.
Click here to view our current Adult Enrichment courses.
Click here to view our Professional Studies Teacher-training courses.
What is the difference between a Dalcroze Certificate and a Dalcroze License?
There are three internationally recognized credentials offered in Dalcroze Education: the Dalcroze Professional Certificate, the Dalcroze License, and the Diplôme Supérieur in Jaques-Dalcroze Education. The following credentials are supported by accredited institutions from the Dalcroze Society of America and are also supported by l’Institut Jaques-Dalcroze in Geneva, Switzerland.
The Dalcroze Professional Certificate authorizes holders to teach introductory Dalcroze music and movement concepts to students of any age. We often compare the Dalcroze Professional Certificate with a Bachelor’s degree.
The Dalcroze License enables holders to teach students of all ages and levels in Eurhythmics, Solfège, Improvisation, Plastique Animée, and Pedagogy. Students must have a Dalcroze Professional Certificate in hand before they can take examinations for the Dalcroze License. The Dalcroze License is the most advanced Dalcroze credential offered here in the United States, and we often compare it to a Master’s degree.
The Diplôme Supérieur Jaques-Dalcroze is only offered in Geneva Switzerland at the Institut Jaques-Dalcroze. Diplômés are representatives of the Dalcroze Method; they are the only individuals authorized to grant Dalcroze credentials and direct Dalcroze teacher-training programs. As the terminal degree in Dalcroze study, it a doctoral equivalent in the United States.
Where are your adult classes offered?
All professional studies and enrichment classes are offered in Dallas within the Suzuki Music Institute of Dallas or via Zoom for distance learners.
Do you offer drop-in classes for adults?
Yes! Individual drop-in participants are welcome at a cost of $30 per class (student drop-in rates are $20 per class).
YOUTH PROGRAMS
Why should I invest in Dalcroze Education for my child?
A Dalcroze education goes well beyond a typical series of private lessons or dance classes. Those students who successfully complete the entire sequence will be ready for any freshman-year university/conservatory solfège program. When music is learned from the inside out, it becomes an investment that will last a lifetime, even for students who may not pursue music professionally.
What is the difference between Dalcroze Eurhythmics, Dalcroze Rhythmic-Solfège, and Advanced Dalcroze?
Dalcroze-Eurhythmics courses are high-energy, exciting, and fun! Although the musical subjects are very challenging, our faculty weaves them into each class so the students experience music joyfully from the inside out. Aimed for students from ages 4-7, our process oriented Dalcroze-Eurhythmics classes will generally take two years to cover all of the material we hope to address. The sequence includes some necessary review from year to year, but with new repertoire and applications. Occasional fun sheets to complete with parents along with song literature will reinforce the ideas learned each week.
Dalcroze Rhythmic-Solfège courses are aimed for ages 6-14 and will function similarly to the Dalcroze Eurhythmics courses, with a few prominent changes:
● Note-reading on the staff, sight-singing, and rhythm reading will be specifically addressed each week.
● Students will learn to sing with the names of the notes and the pitch function (numbers).
● Students will bring their own personal metallophone to class each week. There will be assignments each week that will involve the children learning songs to play on their instrument and to sing while they play. Parents who don't read music can learn right along with their child!
● At the end of the year, there will be juried evaluations to advance into the next Rhythmic-Solfège level.
Advanced Dalcroze continues the development of the The Rhythmic-Solfège courses through three more levels. Graduates will receive a Solfège Diploma from the Dalcroze School of the Rockies, and will be ready for any freshman-year university/conservatory solfège program.
Where are your classes offered?
DSM youth classes are offered in Dallas, Texas through the Suzuki Music Institute of Dallas as well as a variety of other institutions around the country that use the DSM curriculum. Click here to see where DSM curriculum is offered.
Class Placement for Transfer Students
It is recommended that students have at least one year of Eurhythmics before entering the Rhythmic-Solfège program, although this is not a requirement. For older students who already have musical experience and would like to enter in the sequence, an audition will be scheduled to determine his/her level.
Do you offer demonstration classes?
We do not offer demonstration classes, but we encourage parents and/or children to observe classes that are currently in session.
Do you offer makeup classes?
If a child misses a class due to illness or other circumstance, he or she may attend a different class of the same level that same week.
Are the classes drop-off?
Eurhythmics classes are primarily drop-off although parents are welcome and encouraged to sit in on the last few minutes of each class so they can know more about their child's work and can help them practice at home. In Rhythmic-Solfège levels 1, 2, and 3 parents or practice partners will join students during the first half of class to review homework assignments and learn more about their child’s work. After RS 3, students are encouraged to practice independently with parental support as needed.
Do I have to sign up for the whole year?
Because year-long courses provide a much more deep and enriching education, which is imperative in music education our courses are designed for a complete academic year.
Do you have something for my special needs child?
Although we do not offer specific classes for special needs children, Dalcroze Eurhythmics is filled with therapeutic applications through music and movement.
How can I help my child practice better?
There are so many ways to practice! Click here to view a collection of articles by diverse authors on music practice.
What are the minimum and maximum number of students for every class?
Most DSM classes will range from 5-12 students.
What are the materials fees?
Materials fees vary by location. Check with your institution for more details.
Do you have performances?
We hold special events during the academic year where parents and friends are invited into the classroom to participate and see all the wonderful things we have been learning in class!
GENERAL QUESTIONS
What should I wear to class?
Dalcroze classes take place in bare feet so that we can make contact with the floor while being secure and precise in our movement. Dalcroze students should wear loose clothing that is conducive to expressive movement. Shorts and a t-shirt are best in most cases. Dresses, constrictive clothing, and/or footed tights do not promote comfortable movement that allows for freedom of expression.
Is there someone I can talk to about your classes?
Yes! Please call 720.755.3929 or email info@dalcrozemusic.com with questions or concerns. We look forward to speaking with you soon!