JAZZ TECHNIQUE BY TEMPE
Tempe Kirby, a prodigy student of renowned Jazz icons such as Frank Hatchett, Cecelia Marta, Max Stone and J. David Kirby, specializes in jazz technique with emphasis on core basics, performance, and style. In addition to dance curriculum, nutrition and conditioning, confidence and self-worth are key traits in her instruction. Not only does she building strong, technical dancers but also strong individuals for life.
Click photo to watch Tempe
Click photo to watch class videos
Tempe Kirby is a native of Dallas and now resides in Longview, Texas. She began teaching and dancing professionally at the age of fifteen. Tempe has taught for NCA Superstar Dance, NCA Collegiate Pom, Starmakers Dance Camps, has been a master teacher for Crowd Pleasers Dance Camps, American Drill Team School, Austin Dance Camp, Texas Tech University, SMU, East Texas Baptist University, Kilgore College and the Kilgore College Rangerettes. She has traveled internationally as a master teacher in Austria, Germany, Italy, and Ireland. Tempe has choreographed for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, the Lord Mayor’s Ball and St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland, as well as the Aloha Bowl in Honolulu, Hawaii. Tempe is also a well-traveled adjudicator for many regional and national dance and drill team competitions, traveling to Orlando Florida yearly to judge the Contest of Champions held at Disney World. She danced professionally with J. David Kirby “Dance Energy”, Citijazz with Max Stone, and Dallas Danceforce. She was Captain of the pom squad at the University of North Texas and has performed in many industrial works. She has students that have performed in Broadway musicals such as “Fosse”, “The Boy from Oz”, All Shook Up”, “Aida”, “Damn Yankees”, and the new revival of “A Chorus Line” to name a few. She has also had students that have danced with the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders, Dallas Cowboys Rhythm and Blues Dancers, Dallas Mavericks Dancers, Dallas Sidekicks Sizzle, and the Laker Girls, Baylor Pom Squad, SFA pom Squad, Charlotte Ballet and many more. Her students have earned numerous awards and scholarships across the country and internationally. She was the Director and Choreographer for the award-winning “Dance Electric” and her choreography can be seen on high school and collegiate dance/drill teams across the U.S.
​​
Click to Watch!
LET ME SHARE MY TALENTS WITH YOU
LET ME SHARE MY TALENTS WITH YOU
​
​
Private Jazz Technique and Strength Training:
$50 Registration
45 minutes/$85
Master Classes
Adjudication
Music Editing
​
TESTIMONIALS
What My Students Are Saying
Tempe Kirby is one of the best dance teachers that I have ever encountered. Her passion for her students and her ability to take them to amazing heights of technique and performance is off the charts. She will give each and every student her absolute best whether they are beginner or professional. I recommend her every time I am asked for a dance teacher suggestion. She works just as hard as she expects her students to work and she believes in every single one of them. Tempe Kirby is simply one of the best! -Dana Blair
click photo to watch Alexa
Allyson Wegehoft Campbell
Former Student, Encore Creative Productions Senior Staff Instructor, The Quenedit Ballet School
Dana and Alexa Blair
Director, Kilgore College Rangerettes, Encore Creative Productions Senior Staff
Former Student, Captain of the Longview High School Viewettes, Officer of 77th Rangerette Line,
Encore Creative Productions Staff
​
Wow! How do I choose where to begin describing the countless ways training with Tempe will change you. I came to Tempe as a young girl in elementary school who adored dancing, but didn’t quite have the confidence to go with it. I could have easily skirted through classes in the back, unnoticed, but Tempe wouldn’t stand for that. She saw something in me that I couldn’t see in myself and she believed in me, pulled it out of me and shaped not only my dance career, but so many important aspects of my life. Going to her classes were always the highlight of my day, they were hard work and they payed off. In the beginning, I couldn’t stop looking down at the ground, and through impeccable technique classes, focused training, cutting edge choreography, creative custom crafted solos, and some tough love, she brought me to where I am today. I am proud to have been a part of her classes as well as her award winning competitive company. I have gone on to be a dance teacher myself and I have Tempe in my heart every time I teach. She has had an indescribable impact on my life. So many of her students have gone on to be performers and teachers which is a clear testament of the superior training she provides. Training with Tempe will be one of the best decisions you will ever make!
Colby Johnston
Former Student, Graduate, North Carolina School of the Arts, Encore Creative Productions Staff
Tempe Kirby completely changed my view of dance. Through her, I learned the drive and dedication needed to excel in my dance technique. She taught me there are NO LIMITS when it comes to what you can do. I will value and appreciate all of her great instruction and for pushing me, for the rest of my life
click to photo watch Colby
Lisa Dalton
Former South Garland Southern Belles Director and Encore Creative Productions Senior Staff
I highly recommend Tempe!!! As a drill team director, I am forever indebted to her in making my dancers performance ready - from technique to style and everything in-between. She brings out all the potential of each individual she works with!!! Love the beautiful and talented person she is and you will definitely LOVE working with her!!!
Katie Harwood Hightower
Former Student, Rangerette, and Current JJ Pearce High School Pacesetter Director
Tempe Kirby is a one of a kind teacher. I wouldn't be the dancer/director I am today without being under her direction. In her classes she has a great balance of working hard and having fun. Tempe is the kind of teacher that will take the time and effort to push you to be your very best. At the time I had no idea how much she was doing for me, but now as an adult I have been able to see the love and passion she poured into me as a young student. As a drill team director I find myself doing and saying the same things to my students as Tempe once said to me in class. I try to model my teaching style after her and pour that same love and passion into my students that she poured into me and my classmates. It wasn't always an easy class, but the hard work was always worth the result.
Taylor Greer
Former Student, Graduate of Chapman University, Encore Creative Productions, and current
Dallas Cowboys Rhythm & Blue Dancer
Tempe Kirby is an amazing teacher and dance coach. I would not be the dancer that I am today had it not been for Tempe believing in me at an early age and challenging me to be the very best I could be. She has supported and taught me throughout my career which began as the youngest member of her first competition team to working with her during her summer intensives. Much of who I am as a dancer and as a person is because of the influence Tempe has had on my life.
click photo to watch Taylor
Brad Anderson
Fosse, Damn Yankees, A Chorus Line-original cast Broadway Revival, Aida, Kiss Me Kate, The Boy from Oz-starting Hugh Jackman, Anything Goes, South Pacific, and more
I owe a lot of my career to one woman. Tempe Kirby. I had danced ballet as a child but decided to pursue gymnastics after 5 years of intense ballet training in Killeen, Texas. I had danced for fun during high school and college but it wasn't until I met Tempe that I gained the style and confidence that catapulted my career to the next level. I have 6 Broadway shows, 2 National Tours, 17 regional theatrical productions, and countless dance commercials all because of what I learned from Tempe Kirby. I only wish she would've been dancing next to me through every one of them!
click photo to watch Brad
Rachel Lunsford DeMoss
Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader
Former Kilgore College Rangerette Officer
There are not enough amazing words to describe Tempe! She is the best in the business. I started dancing with her in High School and she fine tuned my technique and style to be unique and true to myself. She pushed me to dig deep and find that passion and energy that would make every performance stylized and heart felt. She taught me the importance of hard work, having fun and love for others and what you do. She is an amazing woman and I continue to take her coaching and advice through out my life!
Karen Reed
I have had the honor and privilege to witness and experience Tempe’s teaching style to my daughter throughout the last two years. Tempe’s passion, humor, and incredible talent are infectious to all and make you want to rise to any challenge she gives. She has the innate ability to both challenge and positively support her students to improve their dance performance as well as the importance of creating a strong, healthy body. She has the ability to work you to your breaking point and prove you can go further. She creates this amazingly safe environment to learn, challenge yourself, make mistakes, and grow like no one else I have ever met. She is a true treasure to the community and especially to our family.
Maddi Grace Riley
I started going to Tempe in August to train. She has welcomed me into her home and helped me become more dedicated to my love of dance and working out. This has been one of the best decisions for my dance and workout career. Tempe has helped me in many more ways than one. She has taught me how to really push myself and lead me to believe that I can do whatever I put my mind too. She has made me a better person and taught me that things take time but they are so worth it in the end. She has also taught me to “love the burn” in workouts. She says this all the time and it makes me laugh but it really inspires me to keep pushing. Tempe is one of the people that I know I can go to if I ever need anything. I am thankful for the additional dance instructor I have gained who has not only been there to lead and guide me through my dance journey but also to strengthen my understanding & confidence in choosing a healthy lifestyle daily. She is absolutely awesome!
​Presley Brian
Tempe Kirby has helped evolve my dancing in many ways! I’ve learned many new skills and techniques while working with her! Myself and others have also noticed changes in my body, as my muscles are more defined and my stamina has increased tremendously! Overall, I am so glad I get to work and learn from her!!
Gracelyn Nash
Under Tempe's guidance, I have witnessed incredible improvements in my fitness level and dance skills. Her deep understanding of anatomy and movement, combined with her ability to break down complex techniques, has allowed me to grasp and execute movements with precision. She goes above and beyond to provide personalized feedback and encouragement, ensuring that I am constantly challenged and motivated to reach new heights. She has a keen eye for identifying areas where I can improve, and her constructive feedback has been instrumental in refining my technique and pushing me beyond my limits. I am incredibly grateful to have Tempe as my instructor. She has instilled in me a love for movement, a drive for continual improvement, and a profound appreciation for what my body is capable of achieving.
Mallory Craft
Tempe is an amazing resource for any dancer looking to up their game. Tempe identified the areas I needed to focus on & put me through intensive conditioning and training custom tailored especially for me. She has a wide range of equipment and exercises for building strength and endurance and for enhancing flexibility. Her dance technique training for me focused on specific feedback and instruction for advanced leaps, turns & choreography. Tempe really can optimize anyone’s performance level!
Abby Hattaway
One of my greatest decisions was going to Tempe. Not just because she helped me achieve my dreams, but completely changed me as a person. My overall work ethnic reached a new level and she made me realize the potential I had in me. My lifestyle has forever changed because of the lessons I have learned about fueling my body and the level of achievement is possible when I put my mind to it. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to learn from the best and now she is family.
Zoe Dale
From my first encounter with Tempe Kirby, she demonstrated exceptional professionalism, talent, and dedication, making my learning process remarkable. She welcomed me with open arms and is not only a friend but also a mentor. Tempe's expertise in choreography and dance is unparalleled; her attention to detail is impeccable, ensuring that every step, gesture, and movement reflects the precision and sophistication of the choreography. Her ability to create a collaborative and inspiring environment made working with Tempe special. Needing help with a Fosse-inspired solo right off the bat, she encouraged open communication and welcomed creative input. Tempe's passion for the style and her craft is contagious, igniting a fire in me to give my best performance and make her proud. Working with Tempe Kirby was an unforgettable journey filled with growth, inspiration, and artistic brilliance. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to collaborate with such a remarkable individual, and I wholeheartedly recommend Tempe Kirby to anyone seeking an extraordinary dance experience that transcends boundaries and leaves a lasting impact.
Haylee Ritter
Tempe Kirby is the best! I have had the pleasure of training with Tempe for the past 4 years and in that time, I have learned and grown so much as a dancer. She excels at pinpointing exactly what a dancer needs to push themselves to the next level. Dance technique and custom workouts are definitely her specialties! But what I love most about Tempe is the confidence and drive that she instills in her dancers. If you train with Tempe you will grow tremendously as a dancer. I would not be where I am today without her!
Lainey Goodson
When I started training with Tempe, I was in recovery from a back injury.
She saw my potential and desire to succeed. She poured into me week after week. She trained me, mentored me, corrected me and loved me. I am certain that without Tempe Kirby, I would not have had the skill or confidence needed to try out for Kilgore Rangerettes.
I am honored to say that I made the 80th line as a world famous Kilgore College Rangerette and I owe it all to her.
​Madyson Arzate
I have worked with Tempe for the past year and to say she is the greatest is an understatement. She is hardworking, tough, and is willing to push her students to reach their ultimate goal. I came to Tempe with a dream and she worked me as hard as she could to reach that dream. Because of her determination, I am where I have always wanted to be. She always puts her students needs first before her own. I am very grateful for Tempe’s persistence in having hope in me. And I would not be where I am today without her expertise and willingness to help.
Blake Dunovant
​We recently began private lessons with Tempe for our 9 year old daughter Blake, and we immediately saw improvements. During their one-on-one instruction time Tempe not only focuses on improving individualized dance technique but also flexibility and fundamentals. Tempe’s passion for dance really shines when she’s teaching, and her knowledge and experience are a remarkably valuable resource. Tempe is exactly what we were looking for to help our daughter gain confidence and improve her dance skills. Blake looks forward to her weekly lessons and we couldn’t be more pleased with Tempe’s instruction thus far.
Caroline Rhodes
In 2018 I pursued my lifelong dream of being a Kilgore College Rangerette and was not selected. I decided to move to Texas and tryout again the next year. Someone recommended that if my plan was to tryout again, I needed to get in contact with Tempe Kirby, and so I started lessons with her right away. Her dedication and passion for dance are truly inspiring, and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to learn from her. She is the one of the best teachers I have ever learned from. Tempe pushed me to my limits every day, and even when it seemed impossible, she believed in me and pushed me further. Thanks to her guidance and support, I was beyond prepared when tryouts came around that next year, and was selected as a member of the 80th line of the Kilgore College Rangerettes. Tempe changed my life for the better, and I wouldn't be the person I am today without her. If you're looking for a knowledgeable and dedicated dance instructor, look no further than Tempe Kirby!
Raina Howerton
Tempe is the absolute best! My daughter started taking lessons from Tempe about a month before drill team tryouts - and she made the team!! While she had taken ballet for years, she had zero drill team experience and Tempe poured so much into my daughter so that she would be prepared. If you need lessons there is no one better than Tempe!!! She knows her stuff and will get your child on the path to success!
Megan Fox Holder
I am so thankful to share a love of dance with my daughter. It is even sweeter that the same woman who invested in me as a growing dancer is training her as well. Tempe has mastered the art of pushing her students past their limits, really the limits they set for themselves. She sees potential and doesn't accept an "I can't" mentality. She will convince you that "you will."She uses her dance knowledge and her understanding of the way the human body works to train a dancer to be aware of their habits and tendencies, and how to correct things as they are happening. You can teach a triple turn but does the dancer understand the mechanics of it? Tempe will be sure you do! You will not be disappointed in the growth you will see in flexibility, body awareness, technique and mindset. Your child will know he or she can do hard things!!
Ellie Geeslin
My name is Eleanor Geeslin and I am more than proud to call myself a “Tempe’s girl.” I met Tempe Kirby two years ago in August of 2021 when I moved to Kilgore from Austin, Texas. When I met Tempe I had the goal to try out for the 83rd line of the Kilgore College Rangerettes, however this would be my second time auditioning for the organization. As a second timer, I had specific goals that I wanted to reach in regards to my dance and high kick technique, stamina, and performance quality. Tempe did it all; she never failed to challenge me with new exercises and techniques. I improved significantly over the year with her guidance, as Tempe is very detail oriented and was able to pinpoint what my areas of improvement needed to be.
Now, Tempe is honest. She will tell you like it is. This kind of instruction allowed me to stay focused on my goals and how I wanted to see improvement in myself. Tempe helped me grow in my self confidence. When I came to her in August I was unsure of myself and my skill level. I began to see her twice a week to get as much attention as possible. This is what allowed me to see the improvement in my kicks, leaps, and even in my Rangerette Pre-Training solo. With her guidance, I was so fortunate to be selected as a member of the 83rd line of the Kilgore College Rangerettes.
Something I learned from Tempe was to “go for it” and to not be afraid. This is the mentality that I have kept this past year as a member of the 83rd line. Along with skills and how to improve my high kicks, Tempe taught me the importance of hard work and dedication. Some days were harder than others and Tempe always reminded me that you have to keep working towards your goal. I am so thankful to be in Tempe’s orbit, to have her as my coach these past 2 years has been instrumental in my journey as a Rangerette. If you have a fitness or dance related goal, Tempe is your coach, partner, and motivator!
I pray that everyone is lucky enough to have a Tempe in their life. I could not feel more blessed to have her in my life. She sat with me in a dark and broken place and boldly told me how to pack it up and move on. I needed the push and encouragement and she gave me just that, and went above and beyond to give me a plan to grow stronger in every area of my life. A plan to stretch me mentally and physically and far out of my comfort zone. She led me into an environment full of incredible, positive experiences and new friends. Because of her I have grown in more than dance technique, but also in self-confidence. I love my Tempe!
Allison Reed
Gianna Day
Working with Tempe you don't just hone in your skills but you also gain confidence. You can always count on Tempe to tell you the truth in the most gracious way possible. She makes you feel safe enough to step outside your comfort zone. Even though I live a couple hours a way, the trip is always so worth it. I absolutely could not be where I am, and in the shape that I am today, without her help!
Melea Bedford
Tempe, I cannot tell you the impact you've had on me over the last few years. I've seen not only an impressive physical change, but complete mental changes as well. I am far more confident in my ability and less shy about sharing my talent with those who need to see it. You've taught me to expand my work ethic and drive to raise the bar in all areas. Your relationship runs far deeper than a teacher, coach, or mentor ever could. My family is forever incredibly grateful to you for caring, pushing, and loving me through this process! Your impact will last a lifetime, thank you!
Ashlynn Hines
Thank you so much for all you have done to help me make Rangerettes! I could not have done this without you and your difficult but well worth it training. I have loved getting to work with you this year and cannot begin to describe how much it meant to me to have your support throughout the whole tryout process. It has been a blessing to get to know you and take lessons from THE Tempe Kirby! I love you so much and am truly grateful for all you have done for me!
Maddie and Kandi Thompson
Our daughter has been training with Tempe for the past two years. Tempe has been pivotal in Madalynn's growth as a dancer both technically and physique-wise. She knows what it takes to excel and additionally has a proven track record and system helping girls of all levels achieve their dream! Tempe has a natural intuition with young dancers - she's tough when they need tough and compassionate when they need a bit of grace - a delicate balance that not all mentors exude. Yesterday I am proud to say that Madalynn became a Kilgore College Rangerette on the 85th Line and I know for a fact that Tempe's training was a game changer.
Elizabeth Johanson
We can't put into words what a tremendous mentor Temps is. Each student is unique, and she cultivates uniqueness to make them the very best she can be. Elizabeth has been dancing since she was three years old. She has been in studio, competition, and drill and dance team in her dance career. Successfully, I might add. One of the most important aspects of having Tempe working with your dancer is the physical strength and strength of character that comes with each lesson. She truly cares for your daughter, Elizabeth completely trusts Tempe and so do I. She has brought a successful, yet reserved, dancer into a force to be reckoned with. Physical change is not the part of Tempe's influence that you will notice the most. It is the commitment, hard work, maturity, and TRUST! My EA takes Tempe for the Bible, as do I. She took years of incredible experience and poured that into our Elizabeth. I have told her more than once she became the reason my girl renewed her love for dance. She is our angel.
Ashtyn Lucas
Tempe has had such an impact on my life. As of right now I have only been taking from her for a short period of time, yet I have learned so much from her that it is incredible. She has helped strengthen me as a dancer overall, but she has also really put into perspective how hard you have to work in order to achieve your goals. She is a very honest person and will tell you how she sees things because she is always going to want the absolute best from you and for you. She will push you to do your best and will be your biggest supporter while doing so. I have loved taking from Tempe and I am beyond excited to continue my training and dancing journey with her.
Abby Hazlewood
Tempe has helped me become a stronger dancer and overall young woman. Her background and knowledge in dance has helped me become more dedicated and determined as a dancer; which has helped me achieve my dreams of being a World Famous Rangerette. I forever thank Tempe and love her dearly.
Jorja Flake
We were referred to Tempe to get my daughter ready for a collegiate dance team. Tempe has exceeded our expectations! Not only did she get my daughter in shape physically but she drastically improved her technique, high kicks, and stamina. Tempe went above and beyond to form a personal relationship with my daughter and helped to build her confidence and self esteem. I'm forever grateful for all that she has done for my daughter.
click to watch video
ADVANCED TECHNIQUE & STRENGTH TRAINING
Get the Most out of Class
My goal is to inspire each of my students to dance with passion. My job is to give each of my students the tools and techniques to achieve their personal goals as dancers. I will, not only challenge you with hands on instruction and constructive critiques, but I will create a stronger and more well rounded technician and performer. This is an achievable class for any intermediate student to pro-level student. Click on the picture above to see exactly what each of these classes entail!
click to watch video
PRIVATE INSTRUCTION
Just Me and You
Whether it is technique, style, conditioning, stretching, solo choreography, or critiquing your own piece, I will push you to your limits and help you get to where you want to be. If this is what you're looking for, call to spend a little time with me weekly, bi-weekly, or whenever you can fit it in.
click to watch video
MASTER CLASSES
Outside The Studio
Nothing makes a dancer grow and become well rounded than experiencing different teaching styles, techniques and genres. I love sharing my take on teaching technique and style with dancers from all over. Contact me to teach your team or group of dancers.
STUDENT GALLERY
“A dance teacher helps her students find the song in their heart, the beat in their feet and a passion for life."
