Dance classes will be offered at the Washington County Family YMCA starting
8/1/15. Aspiring dancers ages 3 years and up will have the opportunity to experience many forms such as tap, ballet,
jazz, and hip-hop with experienced instructor, Amber Colglazier.
Tiny Dancers, geared towards students ages 3-6 years of age, is a fun class that introduces basic
dance techniques to budding dancers. The class introduces a combination of tap, pre-ballet and creative
movement. Students learn the disciplines of dance, all while having fun and promoting physical activity
and YMCA core values.
Jazz/Hip-Hop Dance is offered to participants 6 years of age and up. Two class offerings (one for
ages 6-12, and another for anyone 12 years and up) allows participants to experience this fun, upbeat
style of dance. Jazz/Hip-Hop teaches the development of flexibility and control through the use of turns,
progressions and combinations. Students learn traditional Jazz vocabulary in a fun and engaging class.
Through learning combinations and choreography, including jumps, turns, and various energetic leaps,
students explore rhythm, coordination, and begin to develop their own personal style. Energetic popular
music is used for this class.
“We are so excited to be adding dance classes to our Youth Programming at the Y,” said Youth
First Director Rosie Morehous. “Here at the Y, we want to make sure everyone has the chance to be
involved in something. Offering quality programming, with something to fit everyone is a goal we strive
towards. We were so blessed when we found Amber. She has started with us as our Assistant Tumbling
Instructor, and we were very excited that she not only had a gymnastics background, but a passion for
dance as well! We are pleased to expand our offerings with her capable leadership.”
Amber Colglazier started dancing at the age of 2, and has continued ever since. With the most
experience in jazz, hip-hop, ballet and tap, she tends to favor jazz/tap combos. “All dance comes from my
soul,” said Colglazier. “I grew up with Kat’s Performing Arts Studio and became a teacher at the studio for
a few years. I started gymnastics at the age of 5. I was on LaVonne gymnastics team and eventually went
on to help spot and assist with teaching gymnastics during summer camps. I danced and did gymnastics
with Gymnastics By Ann. I was a Varsity Cheerleader throughout my high school career also. As an adult
I still continue to take classes and strive to learn all that I can about the performing arts industry. It is my
goal to share the joys that dance has given me. I want to help kids grow and thrive; dance, gymnastics,
and cheerleading are all great ways to allow children to gain confidence.”
Sessions are 6 weeks long, and will have 3 offerings in the 2015 year. The cost per session is $30 for
members, and $45 for non-members. Card, cash or checks are accepted; payable to the Washington County Family
YMCA. A late registration fee of $15 will be applied to anyone signing up past the July 31st deadline. Financial
assistance is available due to the generous donations of our Community. Please stop by the Washington County
Family YMCA for details, or to complete your financial assistance application.
For more information on the new Dance Program, or to register now, visit www.wcfymca.org , or stop by the
front desk during operating hours for assistance (Monday-Thursday 5am-9pm, Friday 5am-7pm, Saturday 7am-5pm,
and Sunday 1pm-5pm). Questions can also be directed to Amber Colglazier at amber@wcfymca.org.
The YMCA relies on the time, talents and treasures of the community to offer valuable programs and
services. For more information on how YOU can impact our community, or to learn more about how to give,
contact Rob Gilchrist at their location at 1709 N. Shelby Street, Salem, IN 47167.
