Class Requirements and Supplies
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ALL STUDENTS:
Read through all class descriptions and prerequisites to be sure of what class/level is best for you and what you'll need. Questions? Call Nicola at 957-7520 or email <nicolaraks@mts.net>. Phoning is always a faster response time due to the large volume of email received.
All students, new and returning, should read Class Policies & Guidelines. Please bring your copy to class with you.
HOW DO YOU KNOW WHICH LEVEL TO TAKE? The following syllabi list course content, prerequisites and supplies. Please read both the level you're planning to take and the previous level(s). If you're familiar, comfortable and able to do most to all of a level's content, you're likely ready to take the next one up. Repeating students may enroll for the next level while they continue to work in their current one.
FOUNDATIONS
BEGINNING
BEGINNING INTERMEDIATE
INTERMEDIATE
Below is additional information regarding class supplies and how to get them:
VEILS:
All intermediate and Spice Road students need one, home-made or retail- bought. Expect to pay $20 or more for a store-bought veil. It is recommended that you do not buy or make a veil that is decorated, unless a decorated veil has been suggested in class.
Nicola will hem yours for a $10 fee (you supply the fabric), and sells high-quality, ready-made fancy chiffon and silk veils at an affordable rate. For students 5'7" and under, you need 2.5 metres of bridal or other soft, light-weight chiffon. For taller students, your veil should be 2.8-3 m long. Petite students may want a veil 2.3-2.5 m--BUT SHOULD BE FITTED IN CLASS FIRST. Intermediate students must also have 1 silk veil in any colour, and either rectangular or semi-circular in shape. Silks may be purchased from Audrena, Ak'ai, Shibori Borealis, Fairy Cove, Dahlal or Au Set (see LINKS).
Sarongs and Indian veils are typically the wrong dimensions for bellydance veils.
FINGER CYMBALS:
All continuing beginner, intermediate and Spice Road students must have one set of Saroyan, Zildjian or Turquoise brand zills (any style). Nicola carries sets each session at a very reasonable price. Saramaga Middle Eastern Dance carries Saroyan and Au Set both carries Turquoise. You can order directly from the manufacturers (see LINKS).
Buy a set for the sound, rather than the look of the zills. PLEASE, do not buy so-called "student" zills as they are inferior in tone and quality, and may be high in lead content.
CANES:
All intermediate and Spice Road students need to buy one plastic dance cane with a crook from a reputable dealer. The cane should reach somewhere between the hip joint and top of the pelvic bones. Nicola will repair/retape you cane for a $10 fee. A limited number of canes will be available for purchase. Horus and Isis carry good canes at a very reasonable price.
OTHER:
Intermediate, performance and Spice Road students need one exercise band or old pair of stockings for class.