School for Swans

- 430 S Fairfax St, Alexandria, VA 22314

For families in Alexandria and the wider Northern Virginia area, the School for Swans is a cherished institution dedicated to introducing children and young adults to the beauty and discipline of dance. Founded in 1975 by the respected Grace Manly Machanic, the school has a rich legacy of fostering a love and joy for ballet in its students for decades. Following her premature loss, her daughter, Laura Machanic, has stepped in to carry on her mother's vision, ensuring that the studio continues to be a vibrant and nurturing place where children can grow in their confidence and abilities. The School for Swans is more than just a place to learn dance steps; it is a community that builds character, instills grace, and sparks a lifelong passion for the arts.

Our instructors are known for their genuine dedication to each student’s positive experience. One parent’s review perfectly captures this sentiment: "I cannot say enough positive things about School for Swans!! Their expertise and genuine dedication to each student's growth and positive experience shine through in all they do. My child looks forward to every class - and I so appreciate how the teachers foster a vibrant community and a love and joy of dance. It's a wonderful and inclusive environment where children can grow in their confidence and dance abilities." This kind of feedback is a testament to the school's commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and kind atmosphere where every child can flourish. The legacy of professionalism and heartfelt teaching that has been passed down for generations is a core reason why so many families, old and new, have chosen to make the School for Swans a part of their lives.

The School for Swans is nestled in the charming Old Town section of Alexandria, Virginia, at 430 S Fairfax St, Alexandria, VA 22314. This residential neighborhood setting contributes to the school's welcoming, home-like feel. For convenience, the school is located in a brick townhouse behind a red brick wall with an iron gate. While Fairfax Street is narrow and on a bus route, the school's contact information advises clients to park on Wilkes Street beside the house to avoid double-parking, which is a helpful tip for our local clientele. The location itself is easily accessible for families in Old Town and the surrounding areas of Northern Virginia, making it simple to drop off and pick up students for their classes.

Our studio's location is designed to be a part of the local community, and we strive to make it easy for new and returning families to join us. The entrance to the studio is located on the lower level, accessible by a set of stairs to the right of the front gates. While the information available does not mention a wheelchair accessible car park or entrance, the dedication to a positive experience and clear communication about parking demonstrates our commitment to a smooth experience for our clients. We understand the unique challenges of a residential neighborhood and provide clear guidance to ensure a stress-free arrival.

School for Swans offers a refined list of services focused on providing a high-quality dance education for children and young adults. Our curriculum is designed to be both comprehensive and enjoyable, introducing students to various dance forms while maintaining a strong foundation in classical ballet.

Services Offered:

• Ballet Performances

• Children’s Ballet

• Contemporary Dance

• Dance Camps

• Dance Classes

• Pointe Conditioning

• Tap Dance

• Youtube Ballet

• Adult Ballet Classes

Our core offerings include classical ballet and tap dance classes for children, beginning as young as 3.5 years old and continuing into their teens. The annual spring recital is a major highlight, where students have the opportunity to showcase their progress and perform with grace and confidence. We also provide Pointe Conditioning classes for more advanced students, ensuring they have the strength and technique necessary for this challenging art form. Additionally, we have a growing curriculum that now includes adult ballet classes, demonstrating our commitment to serving the entire community.

The School for Swans is distinguished by a number of key features and highlights that make it a premier choice for dance education in Alexandria.

Features and Highlights:

• Good for kids: Our school is highly recommended for children, with teachers who are professional, knowledgeable, nurturing, and kind, creating an incredibly positive and impactful experience.

• Professional Instruction: Our instructors are described as professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated, with a long history of teaching in the D.C. area dance community.

• Vibrant Community: The school fosters a vibrant and inclusive community, where children can grow in their confidence and abilities with the support of their peers and teachers.

• Annual Recital: The annual spring recital is a cherished tradition that allows students to perform and brings joy to families and friends, showcasing the students' hard work and the instructors' expertise.

• Legacy of Excellence: The school has a long and respected history, having been founded in 1975 and continuing its mission under the founder's daughter, ensuring a consistent standard of quality and care.

To learn more about our programs, or to enroll your child in a class, you can contact the School for Swans at the following:

Contact Information:

Address: 430 S Fairfax St, Alexandria, VA 22314, USA

Phone: (703) 338-1330

Mobile Phone: +1 703-338-1330

So, what is it that makes the School for Swans the right choice for your family in Virginia? The answer is rooted in our legacy of excellence and our unwavering dedication to our students. Unlike larger, more commercial studios, we offer an intimate, community-focused environment where every child is seen, supported, and nurtured. Our instructors, with their professional expertise and kind demeanor, create an experience that is both educational and deeply impactful. The fact that a former student from 20 years ago continues to highly recommend the school is a powerful testament to the lasting positive impression we leave on our students and their families.

The School for Swans is not a place for competitive pressure; it is a place for personal growth and the genuine joy of dance. The annual recitals are a highlight, showcasing the skills and grace of the students in a way that is truly professional and beautiful. The love of ballet is a legacy passed down through generations here, and when you enroll your child, you are not just signing up for a class; you are joining a family and a tradition that has enriched the lives of countless children in Northern Virginia. We are proud to be a part of the Old Town Alexandria community and invite you to become a part of our story.

School for Swans

430 S Fairfax St, Alexandria, VA 22314, USA