Cecchetti method

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The Cecchetti method of ballet instruction was created by Enrico Cecchetti (1850-1928). The method traditionally has seven grades with examinations and the diploma level.

Grades one through four were added after Cecchetti died. Grades five through eight correspond to his original levels. Grades one through four are commonly seen in studios to ready their pupils for the more advanced levels. If you pass Elementary (Grade V); then, you are considered a "real" dancer.

There are four different marks for passing a level. From lowest to highest they are: passed, passed plus, passed commended, and passed highly commended. You may also pass conditional, meaning that you must wait at least a year before attempting to pass the next exam level, or simply fail the exam, meaning that you must retake it.

In the American system, grade five (V) marks the beginning of the professional levels and is known as elementary level. Grade six (VI) is known as intermediate level, and grade seven (VII) is known as advanced level. A student who has achieved grade seven is qualified to teach the Cecchetti Method. After finishing advanced level students can choose to go on to Diploma A and Diploma B in order to further their learning.