Elementary and Intermediate Courses

The DNB offers distance-learning courses at both the elementary and intermediate levels of Labanotation theory, with flexible start times to accommodate individual schedules. For students seeking university credits, arrangements can be made through their respective colleges or universities.

The elementary course comprises ten comprehensive lessons covering the fundamental elements of the Labanotation system. Topics include stepping, arm and leg gestures, jumping, turning, circling, floor plans and repeat signs. On the other hand, the intermediate level course delves into more advanced reading and places a greater emphasis on writing. Its lessons explore topics such as parts of limbs, touch, slide and brush, torso tilting, bending and twisting, kneeling, sitting, and floor work.

Each course fee includes access to a tutorial service, where students can submit their homework assignments via email to an assigned tutor. The tutor provides corrections and answers questions, ensuring a supportive learning experience. Additionally, the fee covers assignment sheets, a certifying exam, a certificate upon completion (if earned). However, required texts and music are not included in the fee. The tutorial service remains active for one full year from the date the course material is provided to the student.

REQUIRED TEXTS AND MUSIC FOR ELEMENTARY
AND INTERMEDIATE LABANOTATION

Required for Elementary Labanotation (e-format)
Elementary Labanotation: A Study Guide by Muriel Topaz, $30
Elementary Reading Studies, $20
Elementary Reading Studies CD or MP3, $20

Required for Intermediate Labanotation (e-format)
Study Guide for Intermediate Labanotation by Muriel Topaz, $30
Intermediate Reading Studies, $20
Intermediate Reading Studies CD or MP3, $20

Labanotation 4th edition by Ann Hutchinson
You can buy this book online from platforms like Amazon or Google Shopping.

FEES

Elementary Labanotation: $750

(including Administrative Cost $55)

Intermediate Labanotation: $750

(including Administrative Cost $55)

Please note that the Dance Notation Bureau accepts payment in U.S. dollars only, facilitated through PayPal, personal check, money order, or wire transfer.

General questions about the distance learning courses can be sent to dnbinfo@dancenotation.org

Full payment in U.S. dollars must be received before course materials will be sent.

ENROLL

To enroll in the Distance Learning Elementary or Intermediate Labanotation Course please complete and submit the online registration form.

Join us for our Dance Notation Bureau ZOOM courses in Elementary or Intermediate Labanotation levels. Our courses are designed to match the curriculum of our distance learning courses, offering flexibility in scheduling to meet the needs of organizations.

In our Elementary course, you will cover the fundamentals of Labanotation, including stepping, arm and leg gestures, jumping, turning, circling, floor plans, and repeat signs. For those ready to take it to the next level, our Intermediate course delves into more advanced reading and writing, covering topics like parts of limbs, touch, slide and brush, torso tilting, bending and twisting, kneeling, sitting, and floor work.

Our ZOOM courses provide a personalized learning experience, with dedicated teachers who review homework assignments and answer any questions students may have. For more information and to coordinate your ZOOM course, please reach out to Mei-Chen Lu at library@dancenotation.org 

The DNB periodically offers ZOOM courses. Stay tuned for updates!

Discover the rich world of dance notation with the Dance Notation Bureau’s in-person workshops, tailored to meet the specific needs of your organization. From one-day intensives to week-long programs, our workshops offer a comprehensive introduction to Labanotation, a quick overview to recognize symbols for staging purposes, and conventional notation courses. Led by experienced instructors, our workshops provide hands-on learning experiences that cater to diverse skill levels and interests. If you are interested in scheduling a workshop for your organization, please reach out to our Director of Education at education@dancenotation.org 

Let’s unlock the language of dance together!

EXAM

Elementary and Intermediate exams are administered in an open-book format. To obtain certification at either level – Elementary or Intermediate – a minimum exam grade of 85% is required. For more information on grading fees and additional details, please visit the Labanotation Exams page.

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