Tarana School Of Music And Dance Dance Classes Aurora, IL US

Tarana School Of Music And Dance

Indian Classical Dance School
  • manage_accounts
  • Serving Across Chicago Metro Area
miscellaneous_services Service Offered
Lessons/Tuitions,  Dance Classes,  Kathak Dance Classes

Overview of Tarana School Of Music And Dance

  • Experience

    31 Years in Business

  • Business owner name

    Sheetal Dhanani

  • Contact name

    Tej Academy Of Dance And Music

Services Offered by Tarana School Of Music And Dance
Areas Served in US by Tarana School Of Music And Dance

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Classes Taught

  • Costume Rental

Tarana has beautiful collection of costumes available for rental. For more details call us.

  • Studio Rental

Studio at Naperville/Aurora location is available for rental. For more details call us.

Selected Dance Classes
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Key Business Information of Tarana School Of Music And Dance

Certifications and Awards
  • Outstanding performance at "Gujrat Din"
  • Outstanding performance at "Gujrat Din"
Languages Known
  • English
  • Hindi
Mode of Payment
  • Cash
  • Cheque
Classes Conducted
  • In-Person Classes

About Tarana School Of Music And Dance

Started in 1994, Tarana Dance Academy is the oldest and largest kathak dance school in the chicagoland area. Today, it offers various forms of dance training to aspiring youths and adults. It emphasizes on self-discipline, confidence, physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Workshops for the enrichment of students are regularly conducted by expert choreographers from India and United States, in the areas of Kathak, Folk dance, Bollywood dancing and other popular forms. Tarana Dance Academy has a structured curriculum. Studio at Naperville/Aurora location is available for rental. Tarana has beautiful collection of costumes available for rental. Tarana Dance Academy is the largest kathak school in Chicago IL area. locations are Naperville/Aurora, Schaumburg, Oak Brook.

Review for Tarana School Of Music And Dance in Aurora, IL

  • 3/5
Based on
  • 3 Ratings
  • 38 reviews
K

Rated 3.0 Before enrolling pls enquire about the course and what your child is expected to accomplish in the 'semester'.

R

Rated 5.0 Since childhood I was passionate about classical dance but due to various constraints I wasn’t able to pursue it. However, I had made up my mind to enroll my daughter. My daughter Eva ,started learning kathak since the age of 6. Initially it took some time for her to create passion towards the dance form but she is blessed to have her Guru sheetal Dhanani who is very dedicated and devoted towards her dance. She has helped Eva a lot to reach up to this level. Eva loves attending her class and doesn’t miss any of it. Sheetal ji creates an extraordinary enthusiasm amongst her students to perform.Eva is very grateful to have gotten lots of opportunities at Tarana.

V

Rated 5.0 Words are not enough to describe this particular academy. As a parent rooted in Indian traditions and culture, raising first-generation children in America, I am incredibly grateful to have found the Tarana Dance Academy and Foundation led by Guru Sheetal dhanani. Guru Sheetalji and her team are an inspiring teacher who effortlessly combines discipline with grace, all while nurturing the children with love and affection.The academy’s sense of community is equally admirable. Recitals are a collective effort, with parents welcomed to participate and contribute. Her recent 30th anniversary was Brilliant show... Very well presented. Choreography fantastic. Song selections on cherry on top.All the performances combined the essence of the her story and brought magnificent artistry. It’s heartening to be part of a community that not only values the growth of its students but also embraces family involvement. I wholeheartedly recommend this academy to anyone seeking to preserve and nurture our rich cultural heritage.

A

Rated 5.0 I've been with Tarana for over 3 years now. The journey has been wonderful. I've watched my child grow as a dancer but even more the exposure to Indian art and culture has helped her growth. It also helped her to understand teamwork, discipline and hard work. I believe all the skills that she is learning from her experience at Tarana will help her be successful in other areas of life and teach her to appreciate her Indian heritage.

P

Rated 5.0 My daughter joined Tarana Dance Academy when she was 6 years old and completing 7 years in Tarana Kathak Academy..Her teacher Sheetal Auntie (Guru Sheetal Dhanani) has been with her every step of this journey. She helped her discover her passion for Kathak, and is leading her to be the best Kathak dancer she can be.I am really grateful to Sheetalji and her team.

Flyer of Tarana School Of Music And Dance

Tarana

Frequently Asked Questions - Tarana School Of Music And Dance

    • 1. What is the difference between Lucknow and Jaipur gharanas in Kathak?

      The Lucknow gharana emphasizes grace, charm, and abhinaya (expression). The Jaipur gharana emphasizes powerful footwork (tatkaar) and complex spins (chakkars). Tarana teaches both, allowing students to develop a well-rounded style. Ask your teacher which gharana your current piece is from.

    • 2. Do I need to buy ghungroos (bells) immediately?

      No. We have studio ghungroos for beginners to borrow. Once you commit (after 4-6 weeks), we will advise you on where to purchase your own pair ($30-$100). We do not sell them; we give you a list of trusted vendors.

    • 3. I am an adult absolute beginner. Am I too old to start Kathak?

      No. Adults have advantages: you understand discipline, you are paying for the lessons yourself (so you practice), and you bring life experience to abhinaya (expression). We have successfully taught students in their 50s and 60s. You will not be in a class with 7-year-olds; we have separate adult beginner batches.

    • 4. What is the difference between Kathak and Bharatanatyam?

      Kathak (North India) focuses on spins (chakkars), upright posture, and fluid movements. Bharatanatyam (South India) focuses on a fixed half-squat (aramandi), sharp footwork, and sculpturesque poses. Both are beautiful. Tarana specializes in Kathak. If you want Bharatanatyam, we can recommend other schools.

    • 5. Do you offer online classes?

      Yes, for vocal and theory (taal, raag, history). For Kathak and tabla, we strongly recommend in-person because the teacher needs to see your feet, hand positioning, and spin technique. Online is possible (we have done it), but in-person is superior.

    • 6. How long does it take to learn a full Kathak solo?

      A 10-15 minute solo (including amad, thaat, tukras, paran, and gat) typically takes 3-5 years of consistent training (weekly classes + daily practice). A full Rangapravesham (2-3 hour solo) takes 7-10 years. We set realistic milestones.

    • 7. My child is 5. Can they start Kathak?

      Yes, but with a modified curriculum. At age 5, we focus on basic tatkaar (footwork), simple spins (1-2 chakkars), and rhythm games. We do not expect serious abhinaya or complex tukras until age 7-8. The goal is to build a love for dance, not to create a prodigy.

    • 8. Do you teach Bollywood dance?

      No. We specialize exclusively in Kathak (classical), Hindustani vocal, tabla, and harmonium. We do not teach Bollywood or semi-classical fusion. We stay in our lane of excellence.

    • 9. What is the dress code for Kathak classes?

      For beginners: leggings and a fitted t-shirt. For intermediate/advanced: a lehenga (long skirt) is traditional but not required. Barefoot is required (to feel the floor and hear your ghungroos). We do not require expensive costumes for regular classes.

    • 10. How do I know if I am ready for a Rangapravesham (solo debut)?

      You are ready when: (a) you have studied for at least 5-7 years (for children) or 3-5 years (for dedicated adults), (b) you have mastered at least 10-12 tukras/parans across multiple taals, (c) your guru says you are ready, and (d) you have the financial resources to rent a hall, hire accompanists (tabla, harmonium, vocalist), and arrange logistics. We guide you through the entire process. It is optional, not required.

Kathak Dance Classes in Aurora, IL – Tarana Kathak Dance Academy

Experience the Beauty of Authentic Kathak Dance

Tarana Kathak Dance Academy is a premier destination for students seeking professional Kathak dance training in Aurora, Illinois. Dedicated to preserving the rich traditions of Indian classical dance while nurturing artistic growth, the academy offers comprehensive instruction for children, teens, and adults at all skill levels.

Whether you are introducing your child to Indian culture, looking for structured classical dance education, or pursuing advanced Kathak training, Tarana provides a supportive and inspiring environment where students can develop technique, confidence, discipline, and a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts.

Call 630-290-3647 to learn more about enrollment and class availability.

About Tarana Kathak Dance Academy

Founded in 1994, Tarana Kathak Dance Academy has established itself as a respected institution for Kathak dance education in the Chicagoland area. For more than three decades, the academy has been committed to preserving the beauty, discipline, and cultural significance of Kathak while helping students achieve their artistic goals.

Through a structured curriculum and experienced instruction, students receive comprehensive training that combines traditional Kathak techniques with performance skills, cultural education, and personal development. The academy's mission is to inspire confidence, creativity, and excellence while fostering a deep appreciation for Indian classical arts.

Our Kathak Dance Programs

At Tarana Kathak Dance Academy, students receive systematic training designed to build a strong foundation while encouraging artistic expression and stage confidence.

Beginner Kathak Classes

Perfect for students who are new to Indian classical dance, beginner classes focus on:

  • Basic Kathak footwork (Tatkar)
  • Hand movements and body posture
  • Rhythm and musical awareness
  • Introduction to storytelling through dance
  • Foundational techniques and terminology

Intermediate and Advanced Kathak Training

Students who have mastered the fundamentals progress to more advanced concepts, including:

  • Complex rhythmic compositions
  • Chakkars (spins)
  • Traditional Kathak repertoire
  • Abhinaya (expressions and storytelling)
  • Performance preparation
  • Solo and group choreography

Kathak Classes for Children

Children benefit from a structured learning environment that combines cultural education with artistic development. These classes help students improve:

  • Focus and concentration
  • Coordination and balance
  • Self-confidence
  • Creativity and self-expression
  • Appreciation for Indian heritage

Adult Kathak Classes

Adults of all experience levels are welcome to join classes designed for personal enrichment, fitness, cultural connection, and artistic growth. Whether you are a complete beginner or returning to dance after a break, our adult programs provide a rewarding learning experience.

Services Offered

Tarana Kathak Dance Academy offers comprehensive dance education and performance training programs, including:

  • Kathak Dance Classes for Beginners
  • Intermediate and Advanced Kathak Training
  • Kathak Classes for Children and Teens
  • Adult Kathak Dance Programs
  • Classical Dance Technique Development
  • Performance and Stage Presentation Training
  • Solo and Group Choreography
  • Cultural Event Performances
  • Annual Dance Recitals
  • Dance Certification and Progression Programs
  • Competition and Showcase Preparation
  • Traditional Kathak Repertoire Training
  • Abhinaya (Expression) and Storytelling Techniques
  • Rhythm and Taal Training

Each program is designed to help students build a strong technical foundation while progressing confidently through different levels of classical dance education.

Performance and Cultural Enrichment

At Tarana Kathak Dance Academy, learning extends beyond the classroom. Students regularly participate in cultural programs, community events, dance recitals, and stage performances that provide valuable opportunities to showcase their skills and gain real-world performance experience.

Performance opportunities help students develop stage presence, confidence, teamwork, leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of the artistic traditions of Kathak. Through these experiences, students learn to express themselves creatively while celebrating the rich heritage of Indian classical dance.

Why Choose Tarana Kathak Dance Academy?

Choosing the right dance academy is an important step in a student's artistic journey. Tarana Kathak Dance Academy is recognized for its commitment to quality instruction, cultural authenticity, and student development.

Students and families choose Tarana because of:

  • Decades of experience in Kathak dance education
  • Structured training programs for all skill levels
  • Professional and supportive learning environment
  • Strong emphasis on technique, discipline, and creativity
  • Opportunities for stage performances and cultural events
  • Comprehensive curriculum focused on long-term growth
  • Individual mentorship and personalized attention
  • A welcoming community that encourages artistic excellence

The academy continues to inspire students to pursue their passion for dance while honoring the traditions of Indian classical arts.

Benefits of Learning Kathak Dance

Kathak is more than a dance form—it is a powerful combination of movement, rhythm, storytelling, and cultural expression that contributes to overall personal development.

Physical Benefits

  • Improved flexibility and posture
  • Enhanced coordination and balance
  • Increased stamina and endurance
  • Better body awareness and control

Personal Development

  • Greater self-confidence
  • Improved focus and concentration
  • Stronger discipline and commitment
  • Creative expression and communication skills

Cultural Enrichment

  • Deeper understanding of Indian traditions
  • Appreciation for classical music and rhythm
  • Participation in cultural celebrations and performances
  • Connection to a rich artistic heritage

Serving Students Across Aurora and the Western Chicago Suburbs

Conveniently located for students throughout the region, Tarana Kathak Dance Academy proudly welcomes students from Aurora, Naperville, Plainfield, Oswego, Batavia, Geneva, Montgomery, Lisle, Bolingbrook, and neighboring communities. Families across the western Chicago suburbs trust Tarana for professional Kathak dance training, cultural education, and meaningful performance opportunities.

Begin Your Kathak Journey Today

Whether you are searching for beginner Kathak classes, advanced classical dance training, or a culturally enriching activity for your child, Tarana Kathak Dance Academy offers a welcoming space to learn, grow, and perform.

Join a community of passionate students dedicated to preserving and celebrating the beauty of Indian classical dance. Discover the joy of movement, rhythm, storytelling, and artistic expression through expert-guided Kathak instruction.

Contact Tarana Kathak Dance Academy

Phone: 630-290-3647

Contact us today to learn more about class schedules, enrollment opportunities, and upcoming programs.

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