Photo by Jennifer White
Teaching Philosophy
I believe that dance is one of the greatest opportunities an individual can be given. It opens up awareness of time, space, emotion, music, and the body, bringing each aspect together into moments of art. I believe that the opportunity to dance should be presented to all individuals, and look to refine and progress the skills of dancers pursuing a higher level of technique in the area of classical ballet.
I am a strong believer in the fact that a ballet class teaches students far more than steps and French terminology. Students learn bodily and spatial awareness, how to give and receive constructive criticism, musicality, teamwork, and the importance of drive. As an instructor, it is my job to direct students’ energy towards creating positive progress in all aspects of dance. This includes developing a strong technical base with an emphasis on repetition to create anatomically correct habits and practices. This also includes fostering a sense of artistry in students who are able to present their personalities in their dancing.
Students are expected to respect each other, myself, the space in which they work, and any other individuals involved in their dancing. Their attention span and efforts reflect the level of the class, and will remain consistent throughout their time with me. When students struggle, they should feel the ability to discuss what is challenging them so that we can work together to fix problems. Students will maintain a positive attitude in order to best grow as dancers and benefit their class. As much as I am responsible for creating an engaging and productive class, so too are students responsible for keeping a positive outlook.
Having studied a wide variety of styles of ballet (Balanchine, Cecchetti, RAD), I look to pass on this knowledge to my students. Understanding the alignment of the body is of the utmost importance, and I encourage students to work within their own physical limitations while still pushing them beyond their comfort zones. Dancers should also have an understanding of classical ballets, dance history, and music, which I make every effort to incorporate throughout class. The use of challenging rhythms, clapping, and breathing out loud can create a strong musical awareness, which is essential to classical ballet.
I look to find humor in each class, because this is a way of teaching students and giving corrections that will become positively embedded in their memory. Students are occasionally given space to work out difficult steps or areas of technique on their own, but this time must not detract from the productivity or flow of the class. Tactile teaching and individual corrections are essential to classes, and I work to shift focus among students continually in order to fully see each member of the class and their efforts. I understand the emotional pressures that students of all ages can place upon themselves, and believe that a compliment can always be found for a struggling student.
I strive to spread my love for the art of dance and to pass on much more than concepts about technique. I hope to foster artists who can share their talents proudly with the world, knowing that they have worked hard and pushed themselves beyond the areas of comfort. Overall, I look to be one part of a long chain of individuals bringing dance into the world.