While ORI classes are geared to adults, they are open to students 16 years of age and older.  

Class location (an ORI community collaborator):

Studio 1516, 2nd floor – entrance at 290 Lisgar Street. Paid parking is available at CDCC, or there is ample street parking (metred timeslots vary) on Lisgar Street.

To register: e-transfer ottawarhythminitiative@gmail.com. See more details below.

TAP CLASSES

MONDAYS – Spring 2023 session:  7 Weeks | March 27 – May 15, 2023 [No Class April 10]

Advanced Open Class |  6:30pm to 7:30pm

You have solid grasp of complex technique. You can make clear musical choices, and you can quickly pick up new and challenging material. This fast-paced class is for seasoned tap dancers, professionals, and teachers with significant experience. You can expect a deep dive into various techniques, choreography and improvisation, an in-depth exploration of jazz music and its relationship to tap dance – but most importantly it’s a fun and friendly class!  Cost: $20/per class + $20 one-time annual admin fee  = $160 for this session. NB: If you registered for our Fall 2022 or Winter 2023 sessions then you have already paid the annual admin fee, so your total cost is $140. Joining mid-session? We’ll prorate your fee based on when you join. Email ottawarhythminitiative@gmail.com for more information. See below for more registration details. 

THURSDAYS – Spring 2023 session:  10 Weeks | March 23 – May 25, 2023

Tap Dance 101 |  5:30pm to 6:30pm                                         

NOTE: This class is a continuation of our Fall 2022 and Winter 2023 session – students joining our Spring session need to have had some tap dance experience to get the full benefit of this class. Absolute beginner tap dance classes will start up again Fall 2023.

You’ve tried a few tap dance classes and you want to come back to it!  Or, you’re coming back to tap dance after not having danced in a while, or you want to go back to the basics. We will introduce you to music theory, rhythms, technique, movement and tap dance history to start you successfully off on the “right foot”. Expect to have fun, learn a lot, and move, think and sound like a tap dancer from the get-go!  Cost: $20/per class + $20 one-time annual admin fee  = $220 for this session. NB: If you registered for our Fall 2022 or Winter 2023 session then you have already paid the annual admin fee, so your total cost is $200. Joining mid-session? We’ll prorate your fee based on when you join. Email ottawarhythminitiative@gmail.com to let us know you want to join, and send us an e-transfer to claim your spot. See below for more registration details.

Int/Adv (7+ years)  |  6:45pm to 7:45pm                                             

You have got a good technical, music and rhythmical foundation. You want to explore more intricate rudiments, rhythmical combinations, improvisation and advanced technique. You also have a keen interest in learning about and connecting to the history of tap dance. Expect friendly and fun classes with others who are eager to be challenged to improve your time, musicality, clarity, and artistry. Cost: $20/per class + $20 one-time annual admin fee  = $220 for this session. NB: If you registered for our Fall 2022 or Winter 2023 session then you have already paid the annual admin fee, so your total cost is $200. Joining mid-session? We’ll prorate your fee based on when you join. Email ottawarhythminitiative@gmail.com to let us know you want to join, and send us an e-transfer to claim your spot. See below for more registration details.

Slow Intermediate (3-4+ years)  |  8:00pm to 9:00pm

You’ve mastered the basic rudiments and fundamentals and are ready to do more. You’re dancing short rhythmical combinations and routines. You’re eager to try more advanced rhythms and longer progressions, but need more repetition or to work more slowly to get them. You’ve got some of the music theory basics down. You’re developing your musicality, and are interested in tap dance history. Most of all, you can expect a friendly and fun class with others who love to tap dance, have studied for at least 3-4 consecutive years…or who may be a bit rusty after a while away from the dance and want to brush up their skills! Cost: $20/per class + $20 one-time annual admin fee  = $220 for this session. NB: If you registered for our Fall 2022 or Winter 2023 session then you have already paid the annual admin fee, so your total cost is $200. Joining mid-session? We’ll prorate your fee based on when you join. Email ottawarhythminitiative@gmail.com to let us know you want to join, and send us an e-transfer to claim your spot. See below for more registration details.

Registration – the details:

• If you are a NEW ORI student, please send us an email to confirm the class you want to take, and then send us your payment via e-transfer to ottawarhythminitiative@gmail.com.  In your e-transfer “Message” box, indicate the class you want to take. When we get your payment, we’ll put you on a class list and send you an email confirmation. Then, we’ll see you in class!
• If you are a RETURNING ORI student: To register for your desired class and secure your spot, send your payment via e-transfer to ottawarhythminitiative@gmail.com.  In your e-transfer “Message” box, indicate the class you want to take. When we get your payment, we’ll put you on a class list and we’ll see you in class!

• The ORI is backed by a small-but-mighty volunteer admin team. Our response rate is generally within 24 hours. 

• The annual $20 admin fee (that is charged September 1 and ends August 31 annually) helps the ORI cover some of our operating costs.

• Drop in rate: $30/class via e-transfer to ottawarhythminitative@gmail.com

• Cancellation Policy: 

1. No refunds are issued for missed or canceled classes, or if you choose to cancel your registration before or during the session. 
2. Classes may be canceled due to inclement weather or other unforeseen emergencies.  A substitute teacher may be provided from time to time and without notice.
3. If the ORI or venue shutdown is mandated by the government due to Covid-19, classes will resume via Zoom. There will be no discount for Zoom classes as the teachers’ expertise, class content and our overhead costs remain the same.

Questions?  Email ottawarhythminitiative@gmail.com

Future classes? Put your name on our waiting list! Tell us what level you want and we’ll notify you when your class is available. Email us at ottawarhythminitiative@gmail.com

Summer 2023 classes? Stay tuned for more information, coming soon.

Our next full session begins September 2023. More information coming soon!