I'm having my 2 weeks leave now! No more work in my head. Everyday see our beloved examiner who changes her mind every now and then?! Rather frustrated at times. Went through boring morning sessions to which everyone says they benefited alot! *stratches head* I couldn't help it but I kept talking to HHB this morning during the session. JO was so smart not to come for this!
You know, I don't like to just teach syllabus and more syllabus. I don't really like to follow the syllabus and teach the kids to do the exercises to perfection. To follow every single count and every single arm placement rigidly without question. I think exams really make people lose their creativity and the idea of expression through body. Everyone is going overboard with the tiney winey details of the syllabus that they become so dead and stiff. I think I finally realise what Mdm Goh meant when she says exams are bad.
I thought dancing is about art, about creativity. At the seminar, everyone (including me) is standing like a blockwood when asked to choreograph something on the spot. The only exceptions are maybe those students from Lasalle. Although they may not choreograph something that is nice but at least they tried. Not like me. :( Its not that I don't dare to show people, you know. Its that my mind is a total BLANK! I don't have any ideas about the steps at all!
Then in the ballet exam world, everyone (including me) is going to take (or have taken) elementary follow by TC then TD. I mean why is everyone doing the same thing? Its just like after graduating from Accounting, everyone is getting a job in Big4.
Having said all that, in order to continue to teach, I still have to go through the same rigid process myself.... HAIZ...
Recently, I chanced upon a school (American Academy of Ballet) by accident. I'm now a member of that academy.They have a system that I find really good! They combine exam and performance together! They call it performance awards! The concept is similar to the Dorothy Gladstone award, but its applicable for all levels. The exams (12 levels altogther) will take place in a theatre. All the parents and friends will come to watch. There will be judges of course. Each and every child will get a chance to perform some exercises and a solo in front of everyone. Then after the whole thing, the judge will give them certs and medals either gold, silver or bronze. Presently, the academy doesn't have a presence in Singapore. Isn't it great to bring this into Singapore? I tried the first steps program (like pre grades) with the kids. They love it alot!
Will definitely look into the possibility... HHB: maybe we can look into this together if you interested too? :)
