Page 12 - DANCE Guide 2022

2022 SyllabuS Guide
WEBSITE:
www.comdance.org
HISTORY
In 2018 CSTD was rebranded to COMDANCE.
Sharon Alback
Comdance Examiner, Executive Member and Life Member
Have examinations changed over
the years?
I have been part of the Comdance examination system for 70 years, first as
a student, then as a teacher and now as the most senior examiner. Over this time the society has grown from a small number of teachers in four Australian States with the examinations covering Classical Ballet, Tap Theatrical, Ballroom and Highland Dancing
to a worldwide organisation with examinations now including Modern Jazz, Contemporary Dance, Hip Hop, Performing Arts, Latin and even Line Dancing. Many students do multiple examinations in the various styles. The work being produced by some of the young dancers today is quite amazing.
In the early days the visiting examiner would give the teachers information verbally at the conclusion of the examination session. Today all information is available to teachers on-line with workshops held in every centre to keep them up to date with the latest details.
With the present Covid situation examinations have been held on-line where necessary making overseas and interstate examinations possible with Australian examiners. Online workshops have also been available to both Australian and overseas members to enhance teachers’ examination standards. Comdance examinations are now vibrant and exciting for every candidate.
What is the purpose of exams
and why are they beneficial?
I believe the benefits of examinations are three-fold.
For the students, exams provide a goal for and a time frame to accomplish each goal. They build their confidence as they achieve their goals and develop discipline in organising their time to accomplish the necessary technique required for each exam. Exams provide feedback from an independent source and teach
In the past 89 years we have evolved from the National Examination System in 1933 to the Commonwealth Society of Teachers of Dancing (CSTD) and today we continue to evolve as Comdance. The COM identifies our history, personifies communication of which dance is a primary form and identifies the importance of community to us. Comdance – A Global Community of Dance.
We operate in 14 countries which includes a very strong, dynamic and enthusiastic member base throughout South East Asia.
DIRECTORS:
President: Diane Gepp B.Ed;
STYLES/GENRE:
Classical ballet, Modern Jazz, Theatrical and Performing Arts, Tap, Contemporary, Ballroom and Latin, Hip hop, Pre School program, Come Dance with Me.
GRADING SYSTEM
Early childhood to professional level in all disciplines, including teaching diplomas.
An assessment program is also available for children with disabilities.
MARKING AND ASSESSMENT
Exams are held in all subjects. Students receive written reports and certificates, medals, or trophies. There are five levels of credit, from pass to honours plus. Both classroom and public exams are available.
TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS
Teachers who have a teachers’ diploma from the Society use the letters CSTD together with the distinguishing letters for the genre.
COMPETITIONS AND AWARDS
Born to Perform competitions are held by the Society in Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Hong Kong. The Melbourne competition will be held for the 80th consecutive year in 2022. The event is open to all dance students, and each culminates in genre specific championships. Scholarships and cash prizes are offered in all the States.
students to overcome nerves to perform under pressure which helps in many other aspects of their life. As Comdance examinations are recognised by the Education Department, students can accrue points towards their Senior Certificate.
For the teacher, exams give structure to the day-to-day running of their studio with guidelines to help accomplish the development of technique in a safe and balanced manner progressing from beginner students to professional dancers or certified teachers. The exam system gives the teacher access to all the latest developments in the dance industry with direct connection to on-line data.
For the parents, exams provide reinforcement of the quality of teaching. Students receive written assessment of their work and parents can see the progressive development of their child’s dance technique. This can reassure the parents that their child is being taught by a reliable and knowledgeable teacher who understands the need for careful training.
62 | JANUARY / FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022 | WWW.DANCEAUSTRALIA.COM.AU
COMDANCE