Garrett School of Irish Dance

- 18 Langdon St, Montpelier, VT 05602

Introduction / Overview

Nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, the Garrett School of Irish Dance in Montpelier, Vermont, stands as a cherished community hub for those passionate about the rich history and vibrant tradition of Irish dance. This is more than just a dance studio; it is a space dedicated to celebrating Irish culture and fostering a love for movement in dancers of all ages and abilities. The school is led by Gerlisa Garrett, a certified teacher (TCRG) with An Coimisiún Le Rincí Gaelacha (CLRG), the Irish Dancing Commission in Dublin, Ireland. Gerlisa brings not only a long and successful competitive career, including qualifications for the World Championships, but also a background as a licensed middle school teacher with a master's degree in education. This unique combination of dance expertise and teaching experience ensures that the instruction is both high-quality and tailored to the needs of every student. The school's philosophy, as noted on its website, emphasizes inclusivity, community, and a strong grounding in the rich history of Irish dance traditions. It welcomes dancers whether their goal is for fun, fitness, performance, or competition. The single review provided offers a glimpse into the positive environment, with a parent stating their child "adores their classes here" and loves the "great small community." The review also highlights that "Ms. G" is a "wonderful teacher" who includes "history and culture" in her lessons, adding a valuable educational component to the joy of dance. This fusion of movement with cultural learning is a significant part of what makes the Garrett School of Irish Dance a special and enriching experience for its students.

The Garrett School of Irish Dance provides a unique opportunity for people in Vermont to connect with an art form that is both physically demanding and culturally rewarding. Its curriculum includes classes with live music, which is a rare and invaluable feature that helps dancers develop a deeper connection to the rhythms and traditions of Irish music. The school is also committed to community engagement, often participating in and even hosting local events, from Ceili dances to performances at local festivals. This active presence in the community provides students with opportunities to showcase their skills and share their passion with a wider audience. The school's a la carte offerings, such as their popular monthly drop-in ceili classes, provide a flexible way for people to engage without a long-term commitment. This dedication to providing a welcoming, educational, and fun experience for all, whether they are a child or an adult, beginner or advanced, makes the Garrett School of Irish Dance a truly valuable asset to the Vermont community. It is a place where every dancer is encouraged to thrive in a safe and positive environment, and where the rich heritage of Irish dance is kept alive and passed on to the next generation.

Location and Accessibility

The Garrett School of Irish Dance is located at 18 Langdon St in Montpelier, VT 05602, USA. This address places it in a central and convenient part of Vermont's capital city, making it easily accessible for residents of Montpelier and the surrounding regions. The location is straightforward to find, which is a practical benefit for families traveling to the studio for weekly classes or special events. A key feature that underscores the school's commitment to inclusivity is its wheelchair-accessible car park. This thoughtful provision ensures that individuals with mobility challenges can access the facility with ease, promoting a welcoming environment for all members of the community. The accessibility of the location, both in terms of its central address and its physical accommodations, demonstrates the school's dedication to serving a broad and diverse clientele. This focus on convenience allows students and their families to concentrate on the experience of dance, rather than worrying about logistical hurdles. The school's presence in Montpelier provides a local option for a specialized art form that might otherwise require a long commute for those living in Central Vermont, making it a valuable resource for the region.

Services Offered

• Adult lessons
• Advanced classes
• Beginner's classes
• Intermediate classes
• Private lessons
• Youth classes
• Classes with live music
• Dance summer camp
• Performances
• Presentations
• Weekly classes

Features / Highlights

• Wheelchair-accessible car park
• Good for kids
• Combines dance instruction with cultural history
• Classes taught by a certified teacher (TCRG) with a background in education
• Offers classes with live music
• Provides opportunities for performances and presentations
• Nurtures a supportive and small community environment
• Offers a variety of programs for all skill levels and ages

Contact Information

Address: 18 Langdon St, Montpelier, VT 05602, USA

What is worth choosing

Choosing the Garrett School of Irish Dance is an excellent decision for anyone in Vermont seeking a unique and enriching dance experience that goes beyond simple steps. The single review provided is a powerful testament to the quality of the program, as it highlights key differentiators that make the school stand out. The parent's observation that their child "adores their classes" and feels part of a "great small community" speaks directly to the nurturing and welcoming atmosphere that the school cultivates. In a world where dance studios can sometimes feel impersonal, this sense of community is an invaluable asset. The praise for "Ms. G" (Gerlisa Garrett) as a "wonderful teacher" who includes "history and culture" is particularly compelling. This approach elevates the learning experience from a mere physical activity to a deep dive into Irish heritage, providing students with a richer understanding of the art form they are learning. Gerlisa's background as a certified Irish dance teacher and a licensed middle school educator ensures that her classes are both technically sound and pedagogically effective, creating a safe, positive environment where every dancer can thrive. The fact that she herself has a long and successful competitive career, including competing at the World Championships, gives her a level of expertise that is a significant draw for serious students.

The Garrett School of Irish Dance also offers features that are not commonly found at other dance schools, such as classes with live music. This provides an authentic and deeply engaging experience for the students, helping them to develop a better sense of rhythm and a stronger connection to the music. The inclusion of a summer camp and opportunities for performances and presentations adds to the well-rounded nature of the program, giving students a chance to apply their skills in a real-world setting. The school’s commitment to accessibility, as evidenced by its wheelchair-accessible car park, also demonstrates a forward-thinking and inclusive approach. For parents in Vermont who want their children to receive top-tier technical training while also learning about a rich cultural history in a supportive and community-oriented environment, the Garrett School of Irish Dance is a clear and outstanding choice. It is a place where every step is an opportunity to learn, grow, and become part of a passionate and caring community.

Garrett School of Irish Dance

18 Langdon St, Montpelier, VT 05602, USA