Contemporary Details
Located in Cool Springs, we offer contemporary dance classes (ages 12+) in Franklin, Brentwood, and the greater Nashville area.
Our contemporary program combines modern dance techniques with creative expression, allowing dancers to explore movement through both structured technique and artistic freedom. Dance classes are available Monday through Saturday at our professionally equipped dance studios. All dancers 12+ must be the proper age by August 15.
Our experienced and background-checked teachers (we call them “mentors“) create an environment where dancers develop strong technical foundations while discovering their unique artistic voice.
Class Focus
- Floor work and body awareness
- Modern dance techniques
- Emotional expression through movement
- Improvisation skills
- Core strength and flexibility
- Musical interpretation
Every year, our contemporary dancers showcase their progress in our annual recital at the prestigious Belmont Fisher Center. This professional performance opportunity celebrates their artistic growth and creates lasting memories for dancers and their families.
Whether your child is exploring contemporary dance for the first time or advancing their modern dance skills, our structured yet expressive approach helps them develop both technique and artistry.
Register for
Contemporary classes
Dance classes are grouped by age: Parent & Me (18m-2), Toddler (2-3 years), Preschool (3-5), Petite (5), Peewee (6), Mini (7-8), Junior (9-11), Teen (12-14), and Senior (15-18).
If you have any questions along the way, call or text (615) 804-1177, or email dance@rootsacademy.com. Our team is ready to help you Monday–Friday, from 10am–6pm.
Contemporary Dance Classes
Open classes are available for registration without prior dance experience.
class Dress Code
The Proof
11 Years on the Podium.
Voted a top performing arts studio in Williamson County every year since 2015 — music, dance, and musical theatre.
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- 5.0
- 98%recommend
Contemporary mentors
Teaching isn’t just about learning techniques. Our students are led by passionate and well-trained professionals who recognize their greater role in students’ lives.
Competition Company
ROOTS Competition Company is an audition-based program for students ages 5-18 who desire a fun and challenging team experience. Teams are divided into three levels based on commitment and level: Core, Select and Elite.
Company dancers are the most driven and talented dancers at ROOTS and are especially passionate, hard-working, and committed. They take a set amount of hours every week, participate in multiple dance competitions and conventions, outside performances, and weekly rehearsals.
The ROOTS Difference
As a member of the ROOTS community, you’ll enjoy the full array of benefits that all our students receive, even as an in-home student.
important dates
2026 – 2027 Season
testimonials
Don’t take our word for it. Here’s what some of our families have to say about their ROOTS experience.
Bob and Lisa L
The recitals are so inspiring. The level of talent is impressive and preparation and care that goes into putting on these productions is amazing. They work hard to make the kids feel special!
Good atmosphere.
He has a great balance of being friendly and respectful while also knowing exactly how to challenge Vihaan to keep him engaged and growing. The progress in both skill and confidence has been incredible.
Highly recommend — he truly knows how to spark and sustain a love for music. 🎸✨
My child has gained confidence, leaning technique, and a real love for music thanks to his guidance. We’re grateful for his dedication and highly recommend him/ Roots Academy to any family looking for a great drum instructor.
What first got us in the door was Ms. Liza’s bright, beautiful, beaming smile and the warm, welcoming tour she gave us. From the very first moment, we felt seen, valued, and excited to belong. What has kept us here year after year is the incredible staff and the uplifting, encouraging community they cultivate. The teachers genuinely care about each child’s growth—artistically and personally—and they lead with positivity, kindness, and high standards.
Roots is more than just a dance studio. It’s a place where kids are encouraged to work hard, support one another, and shine as their authentic selves. We are so grateful for the friendships, mentorship, and confidence our daughters have gained here. If you’re looking for a studio that nurtures talent while building character and community, Roots Dance Academy is truly something special. 💛
We spent the entire afternoon at the event just to watch our child perform for about three minutes. There was no food available, and once you left the venue, you were not allowed to come back in.
To make matters worse, the venue was extremely cold. Many people complained about the temperature, but no one seemed to care or do anything about it.
Overall, it was a very poor experience and not enjoyable for families attending to support their children.
My child has gained confidence, leaning technique, and a real love for music thanks to his guidance. We’re grateful for his dedication and highly recommend him to any family looking for a great drum instructor.
The mentors are fantastic! They are talented and passionate about their craft and come prepared to work with the kids.
The administrative staff is so organized and the communication is excellent. I love that they keep us informed with quick concise emails. They are also so easy to work with and accommodating (injuries, illness, rescheduling etc).
The facilities are so clean!
our guarantee
We are so confident you're going to love your experience at ROOTS Academy that we guarantee your satisfaction for the first 30 days (four classes or lessons), or your money back.
annual recital
Every spring, ROOTS Academy dancers ages 3-18 take the stage at Belmont University’s prestigious Fisher Center for a professionally produced dance recital. This cherished tradition showcases our students’ growth and achievements throughout the year.
May 30-31, 2026
Belmont Fisher Center
Nashville, Tennessee
THE ROOTS WAY
Our mission is to train & develop musicians and dancers through leadership that inspires, serves and challenges everyone to give their best. We believe passionately in the power of the arts to impact lives and inspire creativity for the benefit of the community and the world.
mindset
matters
(How we Think)
We believe a healthy mindset affects how we show up in and outside the studio.
excellence
matters
(What we Do)
We believe excellence comes when defining & preparing for success is matched with discipline & passion.
people
matter
(How we Act)
We believe a healthy mindset affects how we show up in and outside the studio.
Frequently Asked Questions
questions?
If you have any questions about our dance program, please don’t hesitate to call, text or email us. Our hours are Monday – Saturday from 12pm – 6pm.
SASKIA HARMON – Dance Director
JESSICA STILLMAN – Competition Manager
JEN BURNS – Musical Theatre & Dance Systems Manager
KATHLEEN MCPHERSON – Dance Program Development Manager
MEG DEARMIN – Dance/FIT Operations Coordinator
HANNAH SEE – Competition Coordinator