A Day in the Life
Academy of Music and Performing Arts - AMPA
1. What does an average day timetable look like at AMPA?
A day at our program runs from 8:30 AM to 4 PM, with 80% focus on practical classes like technique, performance, choreography, pilates, yoga, acro, and contact improvisation. The remaining 20% is dedicated to enriching theory classes, including dance history, health science, and arts management. Students also have dedicated time for show rehearsals, creating a well-rounded experience. Plus, students dive into reports, preparing for assessments, and working on creative projects in their own time. It’s a dynamic blend of learning and artistry!
2. What different artistic pathways do you offer for dancers to choose from?
Applicants have three pathways to choose from:
1. Associate Degree: Equivalent to an advanced diploma, this option spans 16 months and offers a solid foundation in dance.
2. Bachelor Degree: This higher qualification lasts over 2 years, providing an in-depth exploration of dance.
3. Pathway Program: Designed for graduates of diploma and advanced diploma courses, this program allows for an upgrade in qualifications, with up to 50% credit for previous learning.
At AMPA, we celebrate versatility in our training. While dancers explore a variety of styles, they can also select a major to specialize in their chosen genre. This allows them to take additional classes that enhance their artistry and technical skills.
We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality dance training with a strong emphasis on academic excellence. Our graduates have diverse career paths, ranging from performing, choreographing, teaching, and directing, to pursuing opportunities in health science, arts management, production, research, and academia.
Read more HERE
3. What do your students say about you?
"AMPA gave me the building blocks to explore my technique and artistry so I could continue my development as a creative in the field. Gaining a Bachelor of Dance degree opened many doors in my early career and set me on a path to further education and contributions to the industry." Evie Morris
"AMPA benefitted me by providing a training ground to further hone my dance practice to a professional level in both performance and theoretical knowledge. The experiences and industry connections I made through the B.Dance course set me up to confidently pursue a performing arts career as a performer and educator." Julian Chan
"I chose to study at AMPA to further my studies in Dance Education whilst continuing my performing career. The Bachelor degree enabled me to enter into the Postgraduate Masters of Teaching to become a qualified High School Dance Teacher. I enjoyed the focus on choreography and creativity in the course, embodying practical learning experiences of daily improvisation and task work - tools of composition that assist my knowledge for Teaching composition to my students. AMPA accommodated me as a working professional, providing flexible learning options to complete my degree. Now, I am currently completing my Masters degree online whilst performing internationally." Emma Jones
“The Bachelor of Dance at AMPA gave me the foundational skills I needed to enter the performing arts industry. The degree gave me a well rounded education teaching me choreographic skills, performance, artistry and the necessary arts admin skills to produce my own work. My time at AMPA gave me the opportunity to start developing my choreographic practice, and led me to create a multi-award nominated dance film that jump-started my career. Most importantly, I met the founding members of my dance company at AMPA, and have developed life-long friendships and connections with people in the performing arts industry.” Bonnie Curtis
"During my time at AMPA, I was provided with a range of performance opportunities and a chance to explore and refine myself as a performer. I gained experience in choreographing on a range of people, collaborating on projects, developing my writing skills and managing myself energetically amongst a physically and academically demanding schedule. AMPA gave me insight in to other styles of dance and access to teachers who could provide knowledge in these areas." Anna McCulla
4. Who are your dance teachers and what styles do they teach?
AMPA's faculty is composed of international artists and experts, each with a remarkable track record of professional achievements. They bring a wealth of culture, experience, and knowledge to our program, specializing in various dance styles to provide holistic training for our dancers.
Additionally, we invite guest choreographers every trimester to create new works with our students, offering invaluable networking opportunities that extend beyond Australia. These guest choreographers come from diverse backgrounds, including aerial dance, cultural dance, and physical theatre, all aimed at broadening our students' understanding of performance and movement.
Full bios HERE
5. Do you offer any performance opportunities throughout the year?
Our students have the opportunity to perform three times a year, showcasing works by faculty, guest choreographers, and final student projects. This regular performance schedule not only provides invaluable stage experience but also fosters professionalism in rehearsals, helping our dancers refine their craft and develop a strong stage presence.
6. what do you look for in a dancer who might audition for your course?
We are seeking dancers with an advanced level of proficiency in at least one dance style. Ideal candidates are passionate about dance and eager to learn and grow as artists. We welcome those pursuing a career in the performing arts who are interested in both the practical and academic aspects of their training. We value creative thinkers and innovators who enjoy crafting their own work.