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Ballet San Jose School
5 ★★★★★ 26 Google reviews · Ballet school in San Jose, California
Plan your first class
- Free trial / first class new students can usually try a class free or at a discount — call ahead or check their schedule to book your first one
- Adult classes classes for grown-ups, including absolute beginners — it's never too late to start at the barre
- Pointe pointe and pre-pointe work for dancers who are ready — the pre-pointe strengthening comes first
- Pre-professional a serious, conservatory-style track for committed students aiming high
- Recitals end-of-year performances and shows — ask about costume and performance fees when you enroll
- Summer intensive holiday and summer intensive programs — these fill early, so ask about dates and auditions
- Private lessons one-on-one coaching available — ask about rates and availability
- Today see hours ·
- Phone +1 408-393-7309
- Website & schedule balletsanjose.com — enroll and see the live class schedule
Hours
| Monday | 4:30–8:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 4:30–8:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 4:45–8:30 pm |
| Thursday | 4:30–8:30 pm |
| Friday | 4:30–8:30 pm |
| Saturday | 9 am–1 pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
The programs they offer
“This is a wonderful program for dancers of all ages and levels, from absolute beginners to those with prior experience.”
“Maximo’s patience, encouragement, and discipline make his classes ideal for both children and adults, offering the perfect mix of fun, personal growth, and serious ballet training.”
What families & students say
“Whether you’re looking to build a solid foundation or refine your technique, you’ll find a supportive, inspiring, and truly professional environment at Ballet San Jose School.”
“I’ve been attending this school for 10 years now, everyone there is like family, and Maximo Califano is an understanding and welcoming teacher.”
“Has done wonders for our daughter's confidence, every performance has been amazing.”
“Whether you’re looking to build a solid foundation or refine your technique, you’ll find a supportive, inspiring, and truly professional environment at Ballet San Jose School.”
“My wife has been part of the program for the past 3 years and has performed in every one of their beautifully produced shows (and will continue to do so).”
“Max and Jacqui are both professional and friendly, creating a warm and supportive environment where students can truly grow.”
From the reviews
Ballet San Jose School is a true gem in the Bay Area dance community. My wife has been part of the program for the past 3 years and has performed in every one of their beautifully produced shows (and will continue to do so). The level of professionalism and care that goes into each performance is remarkable.
San Jose Ballet School, formally known as Bay Ballet Academy, has been my ballet home! I’ve been attending this school for 10 years now, everyone there is like family, and Maximo Califano is an understanding and welcoming teacher.
I returned to ballet about three years ago after a hiatus and tried several studios in the South Bay Area before finding my home at Ballet San Jose School. From the moment I started taking classes here, I felt welcomed and challenged in the best way.
Ballet San Jose is an absolute gem! You can tell right away that this isn’t just another dance studio — it’s a place where real ballet training happens, the way it should be taught. Maximo Califano, who runs the school, is the real deal.
Adult ballet at Ballet San Jose School
Ballet San Jose School runs classes for grown-ups — confirmed on their own site. If you've never taken ballet, or you're coming back to it after years away, this is for you — and a good studio genuinely welcomes a nervous first-timer. A few things worth asking before you go. First, which class to start in — look for one labeled "absolute beginner" or "adult beginner" rather than an open or "all levels" class, so you learn the fundamentals at the right pace. Second, drop-in or term — many adult programs let you pay per class to try it, then move to a term or monthly package once you're hooked. Third, what to wear — comfortable clothes you can move in, plus socks or bare feet, are plenty for a first class; you won't need a leotard or ballet shoes to walk in the door. It's never too late for first position.
Your first ballet class at Ballet San Jose School
Nervous about walking into your first class? Almost everyone is — and a good studio expects beginners, whether your dancer is five or you're returning at fifty. Here's what to know. What to wear: comfortable clothes you can move in, with socks or bare feet; a leotard and tights are nice if you have them, but not required, and pointe shoes are years down the road — never day one. What to expect: class usually starts at the barre with slow, simple movements to warm up, then moves to the center — follow along, copy the teacher, and don't worry about getting it "right" the first time. Arrive early: come 10–15 minutes ahead to change, find a spot, and let the teacher know it's a first class so they can keep an eye out. It gets easier fast — most people feel far more at home by their third class.
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