Welcome to Foundations
Foundations 1 and 2 follow the introductory Fundamentals courses in the Salimpour School curriculum and serve as structured opportunities for learners to deepen their understanding by applying prior independent study completed through the Library & Conservatory subscription. The Foundations courses offer personalized instructor evaluation and guidance, with a focus on somatic awareness, technical execution, and movement vocabulary.
Over two sequential courses, learners submit video assignments demonstrating their application of Suhaila Salimpour’s Core Dimension™ somatic method (Foundations 1) and their use of the Salimpour Vocabulary—a codified system of step families with historical roots in the Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA) region (Foundations 2). This process supports steady refinement of skills and prepares students for the certification pathway.
Course Details
Enrollment & Next Steps
These courses are designed for committed learners ready to apply their knowledge and receive expert guidance. If you have been engaging with the Salimpour Library & Conservatory content and are prepared to submit work for evaluation, Foundations 1 & 2 offer a structured path to deepen your practice and move toward certification.
Foundations 1
Includes Evaluation for
Prerequisites
Optional Certification
Foundations 2
Includes Evaluation for
Prerequisites
Optional Certification
Spring 2026
Summer 2026
Fall 2026
Two Pricing Options for Your Course: Premium and Economy
Premium
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Post-Course Access4 weeks extended access beyond course end to allow learners to complete certain assignments. ($350 value).
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Choreography Access
4 weeks prior to course, during course, and 4 weeks after course ($200 value) -
Private Lessons
2 one-hour sessions related to course work or performance preparation ($300 value) -
Additional Choreography Takes
3 additional takes of each choreography for a total of 9 additional takes ($300 value)
Economy
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Post-Course Access
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Choreography Access
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Private Lessons
-
Additional Choreography Takes
About Suhaila Salimpour and the Salimpour School
Suhaila Salimpour has taught since the 1970s, developing a somatic method centered on mindful alignment, muscle engagement, and body-mind connection. An early pioneer in online dance education, she launched the first digital belly dance platform in 2008. The Salimpour School continues her legacy, preserving the lineage of modern belly dance and supporting learners worldwide.
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Cultural Context and Approach
Instruction emphasizes respect for the rich cultural heritage of belly dance in the Southwest Asia and North Africa (SWANA) region. Evaluations consider stylistic and historical context alongside somatic and technical criteria.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Foundations 1 course just for testing, or can a new Foundations student take the course?
The 201d course has several tiers for
- Those beginning in the level and want to learn more about Foundations 1.
- Those wanting to work on the content with more feedback.
- To those wanting to test for the level.
- Then to those wanting to prepare for the professional level.
Is certification testing included in the course?
Certification testing is handled separately at the end of the course for an additional fee.
How do I get feedback on my dancing?
Primary course content is handled through submission of video, where the student demonstrates choreography and technique and receives feedback and scroring.
Is there a weekly session I need to attend and what time is it?
Once a course begins, the instructor schedules a time to meet with students and help them, but these meetings are optional.
Join Us in Honoring the Cultural Heritage of the SWANA Region
At the Salimpour School, we celebrate the traditions and community spirit of the SWANA region through belly dance. Our courses are crafted to foster a deep respect and understanding of this captivating art, connecting students with its rich cultural diversity.
Whether you aspire to become a professional dancer or are pursuing belly dance as a fulfilling hobby, the Salimpour School offers a supportive and enriching environment for your journey. Enroll today and take the next step towards a deeper connection with yourself and the art of belly dance.
Whether you aspire to become a professional dancer or are pursuing belly dance as a fulfilling hobby, the Salimpour School offers a supportive and enriching environment for your journey. Enroll today and take the next step towards a deeper connection with yourself and the art of belly dance.