Early Childhood Development

The Cecchetti Council of America offers three pre-syllabus Examinations designed specifically for young children. These levels focus on developing poise, musicality, coordination, and confidence in a fun, creative environment. The material encourages student enjoyment and imaginative expression, with examinations led and guided by the teacher throughout. These foundational levels lay the groundwork for disciplined and joyful ballet training.

Foundational Technique

For dancers beginning a more structured and serious ballet path, Grades I and II emphasize correct anatomical alignment and the placement of the torso, hips, and legs. Students build coordination of the head and arms while learning to move through exercises with graceful transitions and control. These levels establish the technical clarity needed to progress into more complex work.

Artistic Maturity & Movement Quality

At this stage, dancers are introduced to a more refined sense of musicality and expression. Grades III and IV focus on strength, stability, and technical precision in elements such as pirouettes and grand allegro. Students work toward greater suppleness and fluidity, with integrated coordination of the head, arms, legs, and body. In Grade IV, dancers perform a one-minute unset solo, allowing them to explore performance, phrasing, and choreographic interpretation.

Elementary Syllabus & Professional Foundation

The Elementary Syllabus (Grade V) marks the entry into the professional Cecchetti levels and serves as a bridge between the graded work and the advanced classical material of Maestro Enrico Cecchetti. Students demonstrate a mature approach to adage, pirouettes, and allegro, along with the introduction of pointe work and beats. This level reflects a culmination of the technical and artistic development gained throughout the lower grades.

Grades VI, VII & Diploma – Intermediate to Advanced Professional Syllabus

The Cecchetti Council of America’s Intermediate, Advanced, and Diploma syllabi are maintained in conjunction with the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) in London, England. These prestigious levels are recognized across the world by the seven international Cecchetti societies, preserving the rich legacy of Enrico Cecchetti’s work.

These advanced syllabi include elegant adagios, refined pirouettes, intricate allegro, and virtuoso jumps and beats, demanding precision, artistry, and control. Dancers continue to develop clean classical lines, strong placement, and expressive presence, representing the culmination of the Cecchetti Method’s time-tested training philosophy.