The format on which the instructional program at Brigadoon Equestrian Center is based begins with an emphasis on safety. Each instructor is either certified with the American Riding Instructors' Association, or is also an accomplished show ring rider, and have been well trained in the methods of development of a novice rider. The program is carefully geared towards the specific goal of each student. Whether you wish to learn to ride well enough to conquer the trails, or long to compete in horse shows and even ride at Devon, we can help to make your dreams come true!

Our goal for each student is to learn proper techniques while having a fun experience! Each of the horses and ponies used for lessons at Brigadoon are seasoned, safe, and reliable mounts specifically chosen for their job. We teach the universal basics of hunt seat equitation, (English style), which can later be developed into whatever direction a student wishes to take. Our instructors, Lisa Ritzen-Sonntag and Alyssa Anema, care about each student's progress and are determined to culture improvement in skills as confidence builds! Many of the area's most successful riders have had their start here at Brigadoon Equestrian Center. You may even eventually want to part-lease or purchase your own horse or pony! You are welcome to discuss any of these options with our trainer.

Lesson Basics
To start your lessons, you will need to wear long pants and boots, no sneakers or loafers. You can borrow one of our riding helmets or you may wish to purchase your own at a tack shop. Please arrive 30 minutes early to help tack up your horse or pony. Horse grooming, tacking up, trail rides, and an occasional unmounted lesson are part of the Brigadoon horsemanship and riding experience.

2005 Calendar:

We are currently taking registration for the Winter session! Please contact us for details.

After the introductory lesson, books of 5 lessons can be purchased and used throughout the 2005 calendar year. Scheduling is based on weekly hour-long group lessons or half-hour private lessons with Alyssa Anema for beginning to intermediate students. Lisa Ritzen-Sonntag is also available to instruct intermediate to advanced riders.

Scheduling
The schedule is refined based on seasonal needs; summer, start of school, winter (January - March). We schedule applications as they are received. Send yours in early to help insure your time choice. You may go to the contact page of this site to apply. Late applications will be scheduled if there is space in a suitable class. The trainers try to schedule each student for the first choice of time requested. Please list a second choice in case your first choice is not available.

Absences
Please call if you have to miss a lesson so that the instructor may schedule accordingly. At Brigadoon Equestrian Center we ride every day regardless of the weather. Thank you for your cooperation.

Student Horse Shows
Ribbons will be awarded at this informal show. Families and friends are welcome to attend. Entry fee is $40.00. More information will be provided at a later date.

If you are interested in lessons, please use the contact page to let us know, or call 215-598-9696.

Copyright 2005 Brigadoon LLC.