Why Aspiring Ballet Dancers Should Choose the American Academy of Ballet’s Summer School of Excellence

Enter a World of Grace and Talent

The world of ballet is one of grace, precision, and dedication. Aspiring dancers know that in order to succeed, they need top-tier training in a supportive yet challenging environment. For those looking to elevate their skills and prepare for a professional career in ballet, the American Academy of Ballet’s Summer School of Excellence offers the perfect opportunity. Based in New York, this highly respected program is known for its rigorous curriculum, exceptional faculty, and a commitment to helping dancers achieve their full potential.

A Comprehensive Curriculum for All-Around Development
One of the key reasons why the American Academy of Ballet stands out is the comprehensive curriculum it offers. Designed to provide a well-rounded education in dance, the program goes far beyond classical ballet, encompassing a range of dance styles and techniques that are essential for today’s dancers.



• Classical Ballet: The foundation of all ballet training, classical ballet is a core part of the curriculum. Students focus on perfecting their technique, posture, and grace under the guidance of experienced instructors.
• Pas de Deux: For those seeking to refine their partnering skills, the program offers extensive training in pas de deux, giving dancers the confidence and coordination needed to perform with a partner.
• Pointe: Pointe work is a critical aspect of a ballet dancer’s education. Students who have reached the appropriate level in their training will focus on the strength, balance, and precision required for pointe work.
• Repertoire: Learning and performing classical and contemporary ballet repertoire is an integral part of the program. Dancers will have the chance to work on variations and complete works from renowned ballets.
• Neo-Classical & Contemporary Dance: The program also emphasizes versatility, with students exploring both neo-classical and contemporary dance styles, expanding their range and adaptability in different choreographic environments.
• Musical Theater & Spanish Dance: To enhance their stage presence and broaden their performance skills, students participate in musical theater and Spanish dance classes, which introduce them to new styles and cultural expressions.
• Folk Dance: As part of a well-rounded education, students are also introduced to folk dance, learning to express storytelling and culture through movement.
• Performance Awards: The academy offers performance awards to recognize exceptional progress and talent throughout the program, further motivating students to excel in their training.

This wide-ranging curriculum ensures that every dancer, regardless of their individual strengths, develops into a versatile and capable performer.

State-of-the-Art Facilities in a Scenic Location
The American Academy of Ballet’s Summer School of Excellence is held at the State University of New York at Purchase (SUNY Purchase), which boasts world-class facilities and a beautiful campus. The serene surroundings provide an inspiring environment for young dancers to focus on their craft, while the state-of-the-art studios offer the perfect setting for intensive training. Additionally, students have access to performance spaces equipped with professional lighting and sound systems, allowing them to experience the thrill of dancing on stage under the best conditions.

Internationally Renowned Faculty
One of the key draws of the program is the internationally renowned faculty. The American Academy of Ballet carefully selects its instructors from top ballet companies around the world. These professionals bring a wealth of experience from their own careers as dancers and choreographers, offering students unique insights into the world of ballet.

Having access to such high-caliber instruction is invaluable for aspiring dancers. Learning directly from professionals who have succeeded in the industry allows students to gain a deeper understanding of both the technical and artistic aspects of ballet. Faculty members offer personalized feedback, ensuring that each student receives the attention and guidance they need to improve.

Merit-Based Scholarships
The American Academy of Ballet believes in making high-quality ballet training accessible to talented dancers, regardless of financial constraints. To this end, the academy offers merit-based scholarships to students who demonstrate exceptional ability and potential. These scholarships make it possible for more students to attend the program and benefit from the world-class training offered, helping them on their journey toward a professional career in ballet.

Performance Opportunities
For many students, one of the highlights of the Summer School of Excellence is the opportunity to participate in weekly performances. These performances give dancers the chance to showcase what they have learned throughout the program and gain valuable stage experience. Held at the end of each session, the performances are attended by families, friends, and even industry professionals, offering students a real-world platform to display their progress and talent.

Performance opportunities like these are critical for young dancers who aspire to perform on professional stages. Not only do they help build confidence and stage presence, but they also prepare students for the demands of a professional ballet career, where regular performance is a key aspect of success.

A Stepping Stone to a Professional Career
The American Academy of Ballet’s Summer School of Excellence is more than just a training program—it’s a stepping stone to a professional career. Many students who have completed the program have gone on to join prestigious ballet companies around the world. The combination of rigorous training, expert instruction, and performance opportunities equips dancers with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the competitive world of ballet.

If you are an aspiring ballet dancer looking for a program that offers rigorous training, expert instruction, and performance opportunities in a supportive environment, the American Academy of Ballet’s Summer School of Excellence is the ideal choice. With its comprehensive curriculum, world-class facilities, and internationally renowned faculty, the academy provides everything a dancer needs to take their skills to the next level. Whether you’re aiming for a professional ballet career or simply want to improve your technique, this program offers the guidance and resources necessary to help you achieve your goals.