Dance is an art form that blends physicality with expression, demanding both technical skill and creative flair. For aspiring dancers, the choice of school can significantly influence their development and career trajectory. The United States boasts several prestigious dance schools, each offering unique programs and opportunities for aspiring artists. This article highlights the top 10 dance schools in the USA, exploring their distinctive features, strengths, and what makes them stand out in the world of dance education.
Top 10 Dance Schools in the USA
1. Juilliard School
Located in New York City, The Juilliard School is globally renowned for its exceptional performing arts programs. Founded in 1905, Juilliard offers a comprehensive dance curriculum that integrates technical training with artistic development.
Programs and Strengths
Juilliard’s Dance Division provides undergraduate and graduate programs that focus on classical ballet, modern dance, and contemporary dance. The curriculum is designed to foster versatility and innovation, preparing students for various performance and choreographic careers. Juilliard’s faculty includes leading professionals and its students benefit from extensive performance opportunities and industry connections.
Notable Alumni
Juilliard alumni include some of the most influential figures in dance, such as Peter Martins, a former New York City Ballet principal dancer and choreographer, and Wendy Whelan, renowned for her work with the New York City Ballet.
Why It Stands Out
Juilliard’s prestigious reputation, comprehensive training, and location in the heart of New York City, a major cultural hub, make it a premier choice for serious dance students.
2. American Ballet Theatre (ABT) Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School
The ABT Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School, affiliated with the American Ballet Theatre, is a leading institution for classical ballet training. Located in New York City, it offers a rigorous curriculum for aspiring ballet dancers.
Programs and Strengths
The school provides pre-professional training with a focus on classical ballet technique, performance skills, and artistic development. Students receive training from experienced ABT dancers and choreographers, and they have opportunities to perform with the ABT’s main company.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni include Misty Copeland, who became the first African American principal dancer at ABT, and Herman Cornejo, a celebrated ABT principal dancer.
Why It Stands Out
The ABT Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School’s close affiliation with a world-renowned ballet company offers students unparalleled training and performance opportunities, setting them up for successful careers in ballet.
3. University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA)
The University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is known for its innovative and interdisciplinary approach to performing arts education. Established in 1963, UNCSA offers a robust dance program with a focus on both classical and contemporary techniques.
Programs and Strengths
UNCSA offers undergraduate and graduate programs in Dance, including training in ballet, modern, and contemporary dance. The school emphasizes versatility and artistic exploration, providing students with a broad range of skills. UNCSA’s facilities include state-of-the-art studios and performance spaces, enhancing the learning experience.
Notable Alumni
UNCSA alumni include choreographers and dancers such as Ethan Stiefel, a former principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre, and Micaela Taylor, an innovative choreographer and performer.
Why It Stands Out
UNCSA’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning, its focus on versatility, and its strong faculty make it a top choice for students seeking a well-rounded dance education.
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4. Pace University – Lubin School of Business
Located in New York City, Pace University’s Lubin School of Business is renowned for its Business of Dance program, which integrates dance training with business acumen. Founded in 1906, Pace offers a unique approach to dance education.
Programs and Strengths
The Business of Dance program combines rigorous dance training with coursework in arts management, entrepreneurship, and marketing. This interdisciplinary approach prepares students for various roles in the dance industry, from performance to administrative and entrepreneurial positions.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni include Chloe and Maud Arnold, renowned for their work in tap dance and choreography, and Stephanie J. Block, a Tony Award-winning actress and performer.
Why It Stands Out
Pace University’s integration of dance and business education equips students with a comprehensive skill set, making them versatile professionals in the dance industry.
5. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – Department of World Arts and Cultures/Dance
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) offers a dynamic dance program through its Department of World Arts and Cultures/Dance. Established in 1964, UCLA provides a diverse and culturally rich approach to dance education.
Programs and Strengths
UCLA’s dance program includes training in modern, ballet, and world dance forms, emphasizing cultural diversity and interdisciplinary study. The program offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, focusing on performance, choreography, and dance studies. UCLA’s location in Los Angeles provides students with access to a vibrant dance scene and numerous performance opportunities.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni include choreographer and director Lila York and choreographer and performer Wayne McGregor.
Why It Stands Out
UCLA’s commitment to cultural diversity and its interdisciplinary approach make it a unique institution for students interested in exploring a wide range of dance styles and techniques.
6. Florida State University (FSU) – School of Dance
Florida State University’s School of Dance, located in Tallahassee, Florida, is known for its comprehensive dance program and strong emphasis on performance and choreography. Established in 1980, FSU offers a rigorous curriculum for aspiring dancers.
Programs and Strengths
FSU offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in Dance, with a focus on ballet, modern, and contemporary dance. The program emphasizes technical training, performance experience, and creative exploration. Students have opportunities to perform in various productions and collaborate with guest artists and choreographers.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni include choreographers such as Trey McIntyre and dancers like Susan Jaffe, a former principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre.
Why It Stands Out
FSU’s strong emphasis on performance and choreography, combined with its supportive learning environment, makes it a top choice for students pursuing a career in dance.
7. The Ailey School
The Ailey School, located in New York City, is the official school of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Founded in 1969, the school is renowned for its commitment to nurturing diverse talent and its focus on contemporary and modern dance.
Programs and Strengths
The Ailey School offers programs for children, teens, and adults, including pre-professional training for aspiring dancers. The curriculum includes modern dance, ballet, and Horton technique, and students have opportunities to perform with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni include renowned dancers and choreographers such as Judith Jamison and Robert Battle, the current Artistic Director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
Why It Stands Out
The Ailey School’s affiliation with a leading contemporary dance company provides students with unique performance opportunities and exposure to the world of professional dance.
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8. Columbia College Chicago – Dance Department
Columbia College Chicago, located in Chicago, Illinois, offers a robust dance program through its Dance Department. Established in 1962, Columbia College Chicago is known for its focus on contemporary dance and performance.
Programs and Strengths
Columbia College Chicago offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in Dance, focusing on contemporary and modern techniques. The program emphasizes performance, choreography, and dance studies, providing students with opportunities to work with professional choreographers and perform in various productions.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni include choreographers and dancers such as Randy Duncan and Margi Cole, known for their contributions to the contemporary dance scene.
Why It Stands Out
Columbia College Chicago’s focus on contemporary dance and performance, combined with its vibrant artistic community, makes it a top choice for students seeking a dynamic dance education.
9. Bennington College – Dance Program
Bennington College, located in Bennington, Vermont, is known for its innovative and interdisciplinary approach to dance education. Founded in 1932, Bennington College offers a unique program that emphasizes creativity and artistic exploration.
Programs and Strengths
Bennington College’s Dance Program offers undergraduate degrees with a focus on modern dance, choreography, and performance. The program encourages students to explore various dance styles and collaborate across disciplines. Bennington’s intimate setting and strong faculty support a personalized and creative learning experience.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni include choreographers and dancers such as Merce Cunningham and Martha Graham, both influential figures in the world of modern dance.
Why It Stands Out
Bennington College’s emphasis on creativity and interdisciplinary exploration, combined with its supportive faculty and intimate setting, makes it a distinctive choice for students interested in pushing the boundaries of dance.
10. Cornish College of the Arts
Cornish College of the Arts, located in Seattle, Washington, offers a comprehensive dance program known for its focus on artistic excellence and innovation. Founded in 1914, Cornish College is dedicated to providing a well-rounded dance education.
Programs and Strengths
Cornish offers undergraduate degrees in Dance, with training in ballet, modern dance, and contemporary techniques. The program emphasizes performance, choreography, and artistic development. Cornish’s location in Seattle provides students with access to a vibrant cultural scene and numerous performance opportunities.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dance school can significantly impact an aspiring dancer’s career, shaping their technical skills, creative expression, and professional opportunities. The top 10 dance schools in the USA—ranging from the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City to the innovative Bennington College in Vermont—offer diverse programs tailored to various interests and goals in dance.
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