Art 5-10 Syllabus

The Cecchetti Method offers a teacher a completely balanced and analyzed system of theory and execution for the planned development of the student from the first lesson to solo status. In addition to the "set" exercises, the Cecchetti teacher includes "unseen" steps in each lesson so that a student will learn to adapt quickly and easily to any pattern of steps or rhythm. There are eight grades, consisting of four student and four professional levels (Elementary, Intermediate, Advanced, and Diploma). There is also a carefully executed primary syllabus offered for the pre-ballet student.

​The Cecchetti Council of America (CCA) is an organization dedicated to maintaining the standards and method of ballet training established by Cav. Enrico Cecchetti. The organization uses his teaching and writings in a sequence of grades, carefully measured as to degree of difficulty and physical development.

​It provides a system of accredited examinations to test the students' proficiency within those grades. The CCA is composed exclusively of teachers of ballet and is operated on the following interdependent levels: member teacher, regional committee, examiner, and the Examining and Executive Boards. 

​Within this framework, the Council advises committee areas, establishes criteria for teacher participation, and ensures student progress through informed teaching practices.

The CCA was established in 1939 as a committee of the Dancing Masters of Michigan. It based its syllabi on those of the Cecchetti Branch of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing in London, England. The close connection between the two Cecchetti organizations continues to be characterized by this early friendship and cooperation. 

The CCA incorporated as a nonprofit educational association in 1951 and was the first organization in the United States to adopt a uniform system of teaching and examinations. 

Since that time, it has developed outstanding teachers as well as students who have danced professionally in ballet companies across the world.

Today, the CCA and the Cecchetti Societies of Australia, Canada, Southern Africa, Danzare Cecchetti - ANEC Italia, and Cecchetti USA have come together to promote the Cecchetti Method by establishing the international organization, Cecchetti International - Classical Ballet. This newly incorporated, nonprofit organization will serve as a link between Societies and teachers working with the Cecchetti method of classical ballet training across the globe.

The principal objective of the Cecchetti Council has always been to raise the quality of ballet teaching. This requires consistent attitudes of self-improvement and professional integrity on the part of each member teacher. The Council provides continuing educational opportunities through publications, refresher courses, and ballet conferences. The Council's activities encompass five regions of the United States which are represented by sixteen committees. Committees are also established in Haiti, Jamaica, and Canada.

The qualification for initial entry-level membership requires a minimum of two years teaching experience. The teacher must have the ability to coach with a Licentiate Member of CCA to study the required material. After completing the Grade I examination, the candidate may apply for membership. Teacher examinations include demonstrated and verbal knowledge of the syllabus and required anatomy, history, and music comprehension. 

If interested in becoming a member, contact a Certified Licentiate Member in your area. There are certified member teachers throughout the country with whom one may study. To located a certified member in your area, visit the Member Directory page on our website.