what is the right age for a child to start learning Bharatna

Sudheesh R.S · Post by **Sudheesh R.S** » 17 May 2009, 16:08

At what age should a child be initiated to Bharatnatyam?

ardhanariswar · Post by **ardhanariswar** » 17 May 2009, 19:41

I think it depends. If its just for a hobby then frankly it doesn't matter. But if you're serious about dance and the arts, and want the child to make it a life long thing, then make sure you do some research and find the best teacher in your area. As for the age, 5-6 is what is normal. Its important to know that there's no point rushing things just for the sake a quantity. Learning Adavus take several years, especially for a child. Also the child has to get used to taking direction, learn memorizing, and taking some criticism.
If you're really serious, I would recommend the child taking a year or two of ballet since it improves your turnout and flexibility. Most bharatanatyam teachers don't know how to stretch accordingly and how to improve their student's araimandi. I think for ballet, the 4-5 is good.
good luck!

manikand28 · Post by **manikand28** » 17 May 2009, 23:27

I agree 5 years is right. Some people start at 7, but if child is interested, basically parents have to take child to several dance permonces to get their interest and make sure they like it. dont force it. We took our daughter to over 50 dance performances before making sure she is interested and enrolling her around 4.5 years old. We have probably watched around 100 performances so far, mostly arangetrams.

urmila.c · Post by **urmila.c** » 18 May 2009, 06:39

You can see how 7 year olds can dance - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8C6BWirS7pk

Basically, some gurus specialise in teaching young children.