Classical Ballet School

- 1605 E 19th St, Edmond, OK 73013

For Oklahoma residents, especially those in the Edmond and Oklahoma City area, the Classical Ballet School is recognized as a prestigious local institution that excels in the rigorous yet rewarding art of ballet. Operating as a dedicated ballet school, arts organization, and physical fitness program, it provides serious, pre-professional classical ballet instruction in a formal, small-group setting. The school is committed to nurturing students who are dedicated to progressing in their understanding and execution of classical ballet technique and artistry.

This school is the legacy of decades of dance excellence, founded by Kay Sandel, a retired Professor of Dance and Ballet Pedagogy at Oklahoma City University, and now owned and directed by her former student, Miss Julie Bierne. Miss Julie is a phenomenal instructor and a former professional ballerina with Ballet Oklahoma (now Oklahoma City Ballet), bringing a wealth of professional experience and a true passion for teaching the next generation of dancers. This lineage ensures that students in Oklahoma receive instruction rooted in authentic classical tradition.

The philosophy at the Classical Ballet School views the training of a dancer as the development of the person as a whole. Students are not only taught the fundamentals of technique but also the discipline, focus, manners, and values that are key to success in all of life's endeavors. Reviews consistently praise the school for offering "traditional ballet with manners and values" and for being a wonderful studio that builds confidence while teaching students how to move beautifully. Unlike some studios, the emphasis here is on classical ballet without "excessive pressure on the children," creating an environment where students thrive and are encouraged to uplift others.

The school features a carefully constructed curriculum designed to progress constructively through each phase of a student's physical, emotional, and intellectual development, resulting in enriched individuals with technical ability, artistic expression, and a lifelong appreciation of the arts. Whether a child is just starting in the enchanting pre-ballet program or is pursuing the pre-professional track, the Classical Ballet School is dedicated to providing an exceptional and unforgettable dance experience right here in Edmond.

The Classical Ballet School is strategically located in Edmond, making it a central and convenient location for families driving from various parts of the Oklahoma City metro area. Located close to main thoroughfares, it is easily accessible for weekly classes and rehearsal schedules.

The school is located at:

1605 E 19th St, Edmond, OK 73013, USA

The facility is committed to providing an accessible environment for students and parents. Key accessibility features include:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot
• The environment is designated as "Good for kids," reflecting its supportive and structured setting for young learners.

The Classical Ballet School offers a comprehensive, multi-level curriculum that specializes in authentic classical ballet instruction. Class sizes are intentionally limited to ensure that each student receives individualized attention and correction, with class placement determined by the Director.

• Pre-Ballet Program: The unique "Enchanted Forest Pre-Ballet" class, suitable for children, which is an imaginative, story-based journey weaving together classical music, ballet technique, and imagination.
• Core Ballet Programs: Structured training across Beginner's program, Intermediate program, and Advanced program, focusing on core Classical Ballet Technique and Instruction.
• Pre-Professional Program: A rigorous track for serious students committed to high-level training and artistic growth, preparing them for potential professional careers.
• Specialized Technical Classes: Dedicated instruction in Pointe ballet (including Pre-Pointe preparation), Pas de deux ballet (partnering), and Classical Ballet Training.
• Supplemental Dance Arts: Classes in Character Dance (often used in classical repertory), Lyrical, and Repertory ballet, expanding the students' artistic versatility.
• Performing Arts/Production: Essential Performing Arts opportunities, including the preparation for and participation in an original, full-scale, professional-quality Ballet Production each June.
• Seasonal Intensives: Offering Ballet Summer Camp and Ballet Summer Intensive programs, providing concentrated training during the break from the regular school year.
• Individualized Placement: Complimentary level placement classes are offered to new students to ensure they begin in the appropriate program where they can best progress.

The reputation of the Classical Ballet School among Oklahoma's arts community is stellar, built on its unique training methodology and the quality of its productions.

• Professional Leadership: The school is directed by Miss Julie Bierne, a former professional ballerina with Ballet Oklahoma, ensuring the highest standards of instruction and artistry are maintained.
• Small Group Setting: Class sizes are deliberately small, which guarantees that students receive extensive one-on-one attention and corrections necessary for mastering the detailed art of classical ballet.
• High-Quality Annual Productions: The yearly recitals are a major highlight, consistently described by local customers as "designed and put on very professionally" and "beautiful," showcasing the students' hard work in original, full-scale ballets.
• Value-Based Education: The training incorporates manners and values, promoting a positive, non-'dance moms' style atmosphere where students are taught to support and uplift one another.
• Unique Pre-Ballet Curriculum: The imaginative "Enchanted Forest" program ensures that instruction for the youngest children (Preschool Ballet) is engaging and rigorous, setting a strong foundation in technique and artistic appreciation.
• Holistic Development: The core values—"I belong," "I am unique," "I am capable," "I strive for excellence," and "I uplift others"—are integrated into the studio environment to foster confidence and strong character alongside technical skill.
• Arts Integration: The curriculum extends beyond dance technique to include elements of Theatre Arts and an appreciation for classical music, enriching the overall performing arts education.

Prospective students and parents in the Edmond, Oklahoma City, and surrounding Oklahoma areas can reach out to the Classical Ballet School for enrollment details, class schedules, and to set up a complimentary placement class.

Address: 1605 E 19th St, Edmond, OK 73013, USA

Phone: (405) 900-2444

For Oklahoma parents seeking an unparalleled classical ballet education for their child, the Classical Ballet School in Edmond is worth choosing above all others. The distinction lies in its authentic, pre-professional focus delivered in an incredibly nurturing and positive environment. It avoids the pitfalls of large, overly competitive studios by limiting class sizes and emphasizing the individual student's growth and character development, as one parent noted, "building her confidence" while teaching her to move "beautifully."

Furthermore, the quality of the instruction, led by a former professional ballerina, is exceptional and ensures that training methods are current, safe, and technically sound—a vital concern for any parent of a young dancer. The annual productions are not simple recitals but professional-quality full-length ballets, giving students an invaluable performing arts experience. Choosing the Classical Ballet School means choosing an enriching foundation—not just in dance, but in discipline, artistry, and self-esteem—that will benefit the student throughout their life in Oklahoma and beyond. Many families express the sentiment, "Wish we would have made the decision to come to her sooner," highlighting the studio's lasting positive impact on their children’s lives.

Classical Ballet School

1605 E 19th St, Edmond, OK 73013, USA