At Rince Academy, we offer students the opportunity to take part in Irish Dance Grade Exams, a structured program that encourages dancers to develop their skills and build a strong foundation in Irish dance.
What Are Grade Exams?
Grade Exams are a non-competitive way to measure a dancer’s progress, focusing on individual skills. The Grade Examination Scheme provides a structured framework that helps dancers build their physical abilities, fitness, musicality, and an appreciation of traditional Irish dances and culture.
Dancers are evaluated on their technique, musicality, and knowledge of traditional Irish dances. There are 12 levels, and students can progress at their own pace, receiving personalized feedback at each stage. Unlike competitions, each dancer is assessed individually, with a written report highlighting their achievements and areas for improvement.
Grade Exams are open to all dancers, regardless of age or ability, and provide a valuable sense of achievement, whether your child is dancing for recreation, competition, or with hopes of pursuing a professional career in Irish dancing.
Why Should Your Child Participate?
Personal Achievement: Each exam provides a sense of accomplishment, building confidence as students master new dances and techniques.
Skill Development: The exams are designed to help dancers improve their physical skills, stamina, and understanding of Irish dance tradition.
Global Community: By participating in these exams, your child will follow the same syllabus and assessment standards as dancers worldwide, ensuring consistency in their training and progress.
Academic Achievement: Demonstrates commitment and discipline in extracurricular activities, which can positively impact academic performance and applications.
Dancers who wish to participate in Irish dancing grade exams must be registered with AIDA (Australian Irish Dancing Association), the governing body of Irish dancing in Australia.
Click here to register with AIDA
Grade Exam Syllabus
Grade | Dances |
1 | Easy Reel and Light Jig |
2 | Easy Slip Jig and Easy Single Jig |
3 | Primary Reel and Basic Heavy Jig |
4 | Primary Slip Jig and St. Patrick's Day (Traditional) |
5 | Advanced Reel, Basic Hornpipe, and Walls of Limerick |
6 | Advanced Slip Jig, Blackbird (Traditional), and Siege of Ennis |
7 | Advanced Heavy Jig, Garden of Daisies (Traditional), and Four Hand Reel |
8 | Advanced Hornpipe, Job of Journeywork (Traditional), and Humours of Bandon |
9 | Two modern set dances (6/8 and 2/4 or 4/4) and High Cauled Cap |
10 | Two modern set dances (6/8 and 2/4 or 4/4) and Eight Hand Jig |
11 | Advanced Reel, Advanced Slip Jig, Advanced Heavy Jig, King of the Fairies, Two modern set dances, and Eight-Hand Reel and Harvest Time Jig |
12 | Light Jig, Single Jig, Advanced Hornpipe, Three Sea Captains, Jockey to the Fair, Two Modern set dances, and Morris Reel and Sixteen Hand Reel |
Comments