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Girls Preparatory School

Dance

Dance

Members of Terpsichord hold a pose on stage.

Stepping with

Confidence

More than just movement, dance at GPS is a journey of self-expression, discipline, and discovery.

Whether through engaging classes, dynamic after-school enrichment programs, or auditioning for our prestigious modern dance company, GPS offers a vibrant and supportive path for every dancer to thrive.

Two students in white perform a dance together against a blue backdrop.

“Before GPS, I hadn’t even considered the idea of dancing. It wasn’t something I expected to resonate with so much, but my experience in this wonderful community has been something that I’ll cherish for life. It’s pushed me to collaborate and use my voice, traits that I’ve noticed continue to manifest outside of the studio. Dancing at GPS has truly taught me that no matter how late you start, art will always be impactful.” Victoria S '27

 

A person in a red outfit is jumping against a vibrant blue background, their arms and legs outstretched in a dynamic pose.
A person in a teal dress is jumping and stretching their arms up against a vibrant pink background.
Two dancers in black and white outfits performing on a vibrant red stage.
A graceful dancer in a flowing pink dress stands against a vibrant blue background, her arms raised in a graceful pose.
Three women in colorful skirts and tops are performing a dance routine in a dance studio with brick walls and a wooden floor.
A dancer in a flowing beige skirt performs gracefully against a vibrant blue background.
A young woman in a black dress is performing on a dimly lit stage, her movements graceful and expressive.
A person in a white shirt and dark pants stands in a dramatic pose against a vibrant red background.
A person in a colorful outfit performing an acrobatic handstand on a reflective surface against a vibrant pink background.
A woman in a flowing, light-colored dress stands on a dimly lit stage, her expression pensive and her gaze directed away from the viewer.
A group of women in colorful dance attire are performing synchronized movements in a dance studio with a wooden floor and mirrored walls.
Two dancers in a red and black costume performing on a stage against a vibrant blue background.
A person in a red bodysuit performing a handstand on a reflective blue surface against a vibrant blue background.
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One of the country’s longest-running high school modern dance companies, Terpsichord gives every dancer the chance to choreograph, connect, and shine through original work and shared performance experiences.

Meet Faculty

Amanda Byars '99

Amanda Byars '99

Titles: Director of Fine & Performing Arts, Assistant Director of Terpsichord, Dance Teacher
View Profile for Amanda Byars '99
Laurel Moore Zahrobsky '90

Laurel Moore Zahrobsky '90

Titles: Director of Terpsichord, Dance Teacher, Dean of Senior Class
View Profile for Laurel Moore Zahrobsky '90

 

I had the chance to grow in many different ways after coming to GPS, especially dance. My sixth-grade self would have never imagined that I would have been a part of Terpsichord, but I danced alongside my best friends."Emily T. '25

Dance Offerings

Availability of classes may change due to student interest.

Modern Dance

An introduction to modern dance through technique, history, and creative exploration. Students build performance skills while analyzing dance through journaling, discussions, and video viewings. No experience required.

Choreography

This course introduces the basics of creating original dance. Students choreograph solo pieces, explore movement design, and present their work in a final concert.

Advanced Choreography

Students ready to deepen their choreographic voice build digital portfolios, explore advanced concepts, and receive ongoing feedback to refine their work.

Dance Technique Lab

Company dancers focus on advanced technique, performance, and production with an emphasis on alignment, choreographic skills, and reflective growth through feedback and concert participation.

Dance Choreography Lab

Students focus on choreography and artistic growth while exploring complex techniques, developing leadership, and contributing to group performances with originality and insight.

Dance Performance Lab

Students choreograph, mentor peers, and perform at the highest level with professionalism and artistic integrity in this capstone course where dancers demonstrate technical mastery and leadership.

Motion Makers 

Motion Makers is a fun, high-energy dance program for middle school students who want to dive deeper into modern dance. Through both technique classes and choreography, dancers enhance their skills, culminating in a concert each semester. 

Upper School Dance Ensemble 

The Upper School Dance Ensemble is a creative space for upper school students to level up their modern dance skills. Dancers will boost technique, flexibility, balance, and confidence while also creating original choreography and growing as performers. 

Terpsichord 

Terpsichord is GPS’s premier, audition-only modern dance company—and the most immersive dance experience offered. With daily rehearsals and multiple performance opportunities throughout the year, dancers dive deep into technique, improv, and choreography. Each member creates original work, develops her voice, and shines on stage.