Top 7 Ballet Schools in North America
In this article, we will dive into the top 7 ballet schools in North America, providing a detailed summary of each institution, as well as links to their websites. Prepare to be inspired by these prestigious schools, as they continue to produce world-class talent in the ballet industry.
School of American Ballet
Overview
The School of American Ballet (SAB) is the official school of the New York City Ballet. Established in 1934 by George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein, SAB has been shaping the future of ballet for nearly a century. Located at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, the school is known for its comprehensive, rigorous training in the Balanchine method.
Programs and Curriculum
SAB offers programs for children and adolescents aged 6 to 18, as well as summer programs and professional development opportunities. The curriculum focuses on ballet technique, pointe, variations, and character dance, with supplementary courses in modern dance, music, and Pilates.
Notable Alumni
SAB boasts an impressive list of alumni, including Suzanne Farrell, Arthur Mitchell, and Maria Kowroski.
San Francisco Ballet School
Overview
Founded in 1933, the San Francisco Ballet School is the oldest professional ballet school in the United States. With a strong focus on nurturing talent, the school has produced numerous prominent dancers who have gone on to join major ballet companies worldwide.
Programs and Curriculum
The school provides training for students aged 3 to 19, offering pre-ballet classes, a trainee program, and a summer session. The curriculum covers ballet technique, pointe, partnering, and contemporary dance, along with conditioning and music classes.
Notable Alumni
Notable graduates include Yuan Yuan Tan, Sofiane Sylve, and Tiit Helimets.
The Juilliard School
Overview
The prestigious Juilliard School in New York City offers a world-class dance program, including ballet, as part of its conservatory-style training. Established in 1905, Juilliard has cultivated a reputation for producing versatile and well-rounded artists.
Programs and Curriculum
Juilliard's Dance Division offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree, with a curriculum that encompasses ballet, modern dance, and contemporary styles. The program also includes courses in composition, dance history, and related subjects such as music and drama.
Notable Alumni
Juilliard has produced an array of distinguished dancers, including Robert Battle, Lar Lubovitch, and Desmond Richardson.
The National Ballet School of Canada
Overview
Located in Toronto, the National Ballet School of Canada (NBS) was founded in 1959 by Celia Franca and Betty Oliphant. As the official training center of the National Ballet of Canada, NBS aims to develop talented young dancers into professional artists.
Programs and Curriculum
NBS offers a comprehensive curriculum for students aged 9 to 18, covering ballet technique, pointe, repertoire, and character dance, with additional training in modern dance, improvisation, and conditioning. The school also provides a post-secondary program for aspiring professional dancers.
Notable Alumni
Graduates of NBS include Karen Kain, Rex Harrington, and Greta Hodgkinson.
Boston Ballet School
Overview
As the official school of the Boston Ballet, the Boston Ballet School was founded in 1953 by E. Virginia Williams. The school is committed to providing exceptional dance education and fostering the next generation of ballet artists.
Programs and Curriculum
The Boston Ballet School offers programs for students aged 2 to 19, including a pre-professional program, summer intensives, and a trainee program. The curriculum covers ballet technique, pointe, partnering, variations, and contemporary dance, with additional classes in Pilates, yoga, and music.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni from the Boston Ballet School include Sarah Lamb, Whitney Jensen, and Lia Cirio.
Houston Ballet Academy
Overview
The Houston Ballet Academy was established in 1955 and is the official school of the Houston Ballet. The academy is known for its high-quality training, nurturing environment, and commitment to producing outstanding dancers.
Programs and Curriculum
Houston Ballet Academy provides training for students aged 2 to 19, with programs including pre-professional training, a professional program, and summer intensives. The curriculum focuses on ballet technique, pointe, partnering, and repertoire, with supplementary classes in modern dance, character dance, and Pilates.
Notable Alumni
Alumni of the Houston Ballet Academy include Lauren Anderson, Barbara Bears, and Melody Herrera.
Miami City Ballet School
Overview
Founded in 1993, the Miami City Ballet School is the official school of the Miami City Ballet. With a focus on developing well-rounded dancers, the school has earned a reputation for its high-caliber training and commitment to excellence.
Programs and Curriculum
The school offers programs for students aged 3 to 19, including a pre-professional program, summer intensives, and a trainee program. The curriculum covers ballet technique, pointe, partnering, variations, and contemporary dance, along with additional classes in Pilates, yoga, and music.
Notable Alumni
Notable graduates of the Miami City Ballet School include Jeanette Delgado, Patricia Delgado, and Renan Cerdeiro.
Conclusion
North America boasts an impressive selection of prestigious ballet schools, each with its unique approach to training the next generation of talented artists. The top 7 ballet schools in this article - School of American Ballet, San Francisco Ballet School, The Juilliard School, The National Ballet School of Canada, Boston Ballet School, Houston Ballet Academy, and Miami City Ballet School - are renowned for their exceptional programs, dedicated faculty, and notable alumni.
By fostering a strong foundation in ballet technique, as well as providing opportunities for artistic growth and professional development, these institutions continue to shape the future of ballet and contribute to the art form's ongoing evolution.
FAQs
- What age can children start attending ballet school?
Most ballet schools offer programs for young children, with some starting as early as 2 or 3 years old. These early classes typically focus on developing creativity, coordination, and musicality.
- What is the difference between a pre-professional program and a trainee program?
A pre-professional program is designed for students who aspire to become professional dancers, providing intensive training in ballet technique and related subjects. A trainee program is a bridge between a pre-professional program and a professional career, offering advanced training and performance opportunities for talented dancers.
- Do these ballet schools offer scholarships or financial aid?
Many top ballet schools offer scholarships and financial aid for students who demonstrate talent and financial need. Contact each school directly for more information about their financial assistance programs.
- What is the audition process like for these ballet schools?
The audition process varies by school but typically involves an in-person or video audition, where applicants demonstrate their ballet technique, musicality, and artistry. Some schools also require an application, letters of recommendation, and an interview.
- Can international students attend these ballet schools?
Yes, many of these top ballet schools accept international students, provided they meet the school's admission requirements and obtain the necessary visas and documentation.