PRE-PROFESSIONAL PROGRAM
The Braswell Arts Pre-Professional Program is a year-round training and mentorship program offered by the Braswell Arts Association for dancers ages 12-22 years old, who demonstrate exceptional potential for a career in dance.
The Braswell Arts Center is a proud partner school of the Basel Talents Leistungssportförderung.
This means that together with the Basel-Stadt and Baselland education department, the BAC offers the most talented dancers the possibility to continue their dance training at a professional level while simultaneously completing their formal academic education as part of the "Sportklasse".
AUDITION
Send a photo and CV to admin@braswellarts.org
With our experienced teachers and mentors coming from professional dance careers with some of the best dance companies in the world, we know what it takes to succeed in the dance world as it is today.
Dancers in all stages of technical development are invited to apply.
SCHEDULE
Braswell Arts is proud to offer daily classes with highly-qualified teachers and musicians from all over Europe. Students in the Pre-Professional Program are required to train a minimum of 10 hours per week and will attend a schedule of classes specifically tailored to them, including classical ballet and contemporary dance. Students are also required to participate in a minimum of two additional styles of dance each year and encouraged to join as many classes as they can according to their own schedule.
The students of the Pre-Professional Program are split into two levels. This structure allows us to better serve the needs and goals of our students, and enhances the overall quality of the program.
The 1st level is designed for students who have some prior training in dance and are ready to take their skills to the next level. This level will focus on technical development and artistic growth, and students will have the opportunity to work with experienced professionals to improve their technique and performance abilities.
The 2nd level is geared towards students who have a strong foundation in dance and are ready for more intensive training. This level will focus on advanced technical skills and artistic expression, and students will have the opportunity to work on more challenging repertoire.
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Contemporary
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Pointe
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Improvisation
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Jazz
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Strength Training
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Hip-Hop
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Yoga
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Career Preparation
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Pilates
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Professional Repertory
From The Students Perspective
"I improved my technical skills thanks to good training, caring teachers and supportive colleagues. I also notice that I have less pain and injuries than before. - Mohena
"Two things I learned at the Braswell Arts Pre-Professional Program is to not look down and to believe in yourself." - Flurina
"I learned to focus more on expressing myself when I dance. I also discovered core stability." - Flurin
"I learned the about finding the balance between enjoying dancing and working on technique. At the PPP we have a big variety of teachers. I also enjoyed working with the professional choreographers." - Julia
"What I liked about the PPP was the students got the opportunity to choreograph! I learned to ask for what I want and to be more self sufficient." - Skylar
Master Workshops
Preparing young dancers for dance companies of today.
In addition to our weekly schedule, the Pre-Professional dancers are invited to our holiday workshops which take place every 3 months. During these workshops, the students will have the opportunity to work with special guest teachers from all over the world.
PERFORMANCE
Photos by @mikhau.imagery
We are preparing the students for company life.
With the Braswell Arts Pre-Professional program, our goal is to prepare young dancers for performance and company life. We are lucky to have multiple professional opportunities for the students to perform, including an end-of-year concert. Learning efficient and productive ways to collaborate with other dancers and choreographers is a vital part of a successful dancer's career, and is precisely the reason why we offer repertory as a permanent part of the program.
More importantly, our program focuses on repertory styles currently seen on stages all over the world in order to equip our students with the necessary tools and techniques needed for a successful career as a dancer of today.
CAREER PREPARATION
For a career in dance, being informed and curious is as important as working hard.
To supplement the technique training we offer our students, the Braswell Arts Pre-Professional program also offers 1-on-1 mentorship sessions with our staff to personally identify each student's strengths and challenges, nurture aspirations and design individualized recommendations for their career path. We also organize online and in-person lectures with special guest to inspire the students.
Our Mentorship program will encourage students to stay informed and curious, as well as assist them in obtaining the information needed in order to succeed in today's dance world.
We offer advice and consulting in topics such as:
Resume creation and maintenance,
Networking,
Resource Research,
Public Speaking,
Professional attitude and organization,
Contract negotiations,
International Working Permissions, etc.
Scholarship Program
At Braswell Arts Center, we are dedicated to nurturing exceptional talent and ensuring that financial limitations do not prevent gifted dancers from reaching their full potential. Our Scholarship Program for the Pre-Professional Dance Program is designed to support both highly talented and passionate dancers, regardless of their financial situation. This scholarship offers selected students the opportunity to receive top-tier training from experienced professionals, participate in performances, and take critical steps towards a professional dance career.
Our commitment is to provide a platform for the most promising dancers to excel, regardless of their background. We encourage applications from those who demonstrate both exceptional talent and a strong dedication to their artistic growth.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must:
- Be between the ages of 12 and 19.
- Show outstanding dance ability and strong potential for a professional career in dance.
- Be enrolled or accepted into the Braswell Arts Center Pre-Professional Program.
- Demonstrate financial need (if applicable) through submission of financial documentation.
- Display a strong academic record and commitment to rigorous training.
- Open to both local and international students.
How to Apply
The application process is straightforward and designed to assess both talent and need. Here’s what is required:
- Submit an CV: Send an email with your CV to admin@braswellarts.org
- Personal Statement: Write a short essay (500 words) explaining your passion for dance, your career goals, and how this scholarship will help you achieve them.
- Proof of Talent: Submit an audition video showcasing your technical ability and artistic expression.
- Financial Documentation: If applying based on financial need, provide proof of financial circumstances.
- Recommendation Letter: Submit one letter of recommendation from a current dance instructor or mentor that speaks to your talent and potential.
All application materials must be submitted completely. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed by a panel of Braswell Arts Center faculty, who will assess each applicant’s talent, commitment, and financial need (if applicable). Finalists may be invited to a live audition or interview. The panel will select scholarship recipients based on their demonstrated artistic ability and their alignment with the values of the Braswell Arts Center.
Recipients will be notified immediately.
Award Details
- Number of Scholarships: We offer multiple scholarships annually.
- Scholarship Value: Full and partial scholarships are available, covering up to 100% of tuition for the Pre-Professional Program.
- Additional Benefits: Scholarship recipients will have the chance to perform in our annual showcases, take part in exclusive masterclasses, and receive one-on-one mentorship with our expert faculty.
FAQs
1. Is the scholarship only for those with financial need?
No, the scholarship is also awarded to exceptionally talented dancers, regardless of financial need.
2. Can international students apply?
Yes, we welcome applications from students all over the world who meet the eligibility requirements.
3. How often can I apply for the scholarship?
You may apply for the scholarship each year you are enrolled in the Pre-Professional Program.
4. What happens if I am awarded a partial scholarship but still need more financial support?
If you receive a partial scholarship, you may contact us to discuss additional support options, such as payment plans or other forms of assistance.
PROGRAM TUITION
PRE-PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIP
To be a part of the Pre-Professional Program, you must train a minimum of 10 hours per week, but you are welcome and encouraged to join any other classes on our schedule as often as you like. For Sportklasse Students, daytime classes are also offered twice per week.
1-Year Pre-Professional Membership
CHF 4000/year for all students
To register, or if you have any questions, please send an email to admin@braswellarts.org.
OUR PROFESSIONAL STAFF
Armando Braswell
Daniel Mulligan
Barbara Handschin Lic.phil.
Nathalie Guth
Giacomo Altovino
Daniel Domenech
Marina Sanchez Garrigós
Julian Nicosia
Giuliana Sollami
The Braswell Arts Center is a proud partner school for the Basel-Stadt Sportamt.
The Pre-Professional Program is made possible by the Braswell Arts Association.
Code of Conduct
At the Braswell Arts Pre-Professional Dance Program, we are deeply committed to creating a safe, positive, and nurturing environment for our aspiring dancers. Our program operates under a comprehensive Code of Conduct that outlines the expectations and standards for our students, parents, teachers, and staff. This Code of Conduct is designed to foster a respectful and supportive community within our institution.
We are proud to announce that our Code of Conduct is registered with the Basel Talents Leistungssportförderung and Danse Suisse. We share our documents to further validate our commitment to upholding the highest standards of dance education and ethical behavior.
Director of Rehabilitation and Prevention
In addition to our Code of Conduct, we have taken a significant step to prioritize the mental and emotional health of our young dancers. We have appointed Barbara Handschin Lic. phil., an independent psychologist, as the Director of Rehabilitation and Prevention at our program.
Ms. Handschin brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role. Her primary responsibilities include:
- Providing psychological support and resources to our students,
- Developing and overseeing a comprehensive prevention and rehabilitation program within our institution,
- Acting as an independent resource for our young dancers, ensuring that their mental, emotional, and physical well-being is consistently supported and prioritized.
Our students’ well-being is at the heart of everything we do at the Braswell Arts Pre-Professional Dance Program. We believe that this commitment, reflected in our Code of Conduct and the appointment of Ms. Handschin, sets a standard of excellence and care that defines our program as a leader in dance education.
For more information about our Code of Conduct or our commitment to student well-being, please feel free to contact us.
How can you support us?
We hope to give all young dancers an opportunity to come to train, no matter their income. We need support for scholarships and our end of the year performance.
