The Gold Contemporary class is DCK’s highest level and is for those who have taken contemporary for 4 or more years consistently or older students who have significant other dance experience. Students are placed in this level by the teacher. Contemporary dance is a style of interpretive dance that embraces innovation, blending techniques from various genres, including classical ballet, jazz, modern dance, and lyrical dance. In contradiction with what students learn in ballet, in contemporary dance gravity is used in the movements and parallel positions are used besides turning out. Popular music as well as more experimental or fusion music can be used in the classes. Students gain strength, flexibility and coordination as they learn simple dance steps leading to more complex routines as they progress through the levels. Many students experience this dance style as an opportunity to also learn how to relax their muscles, which has a positive effect on body and mind.