Ballet Pedagogy

Overview

The ballet pedagogy emphasis is designed to prepare students for a career in dance education at the highest level. Students are trained to teach ballet to all ages in professional school and university dance programs. This major strongly emphasizes pedagogical structure and theory, covering different styles and schools of ballet and modern dance, from the earliest pre-ballet to coaching the advanced dancer.

About the Program

Whether your dream is to perform on stage, choreograph original works, open your own studio, teach in schools, or in community settings, The Hartt School equips you to do it all. You don’t have to choose between being a performer and an educator. At Hartt you will develop both skill sets from day one, building a dynamic and sustainable career in dance.

At the core of our program is a powerful belief: the strongest performers are often the most impactful teachers. That’s why pedagogy—the art and science of teaching—is fully integrated into our Dance Performance degree. As you refine your technique and artistry, you will simultaneously learn how to teach a variety of techniques and nurture students. This dual focus not only deepens your understanding of dance but also expands your career opportunities, empowering you to stay connected to your craft both on and off the stage.

Students interested in teaching pathways can take advantage of specialized opportunities such as independent studies in dance pedagogy and internships through our vibrant community dance division. These hands-on experiences provide real-world teaching practice, helping you translate your performance knowledge into meaningful instruction. By the time you graduate, you won’t just be a skilled dancer, you will be a versatile artist ready to perform, teach, and shape the next generation of dancers.

For more information about our dance teaching opportunities, please contact the Director of Dance, Ambre Emory-Maier at AMAIER@hartford.edu.

Career Ready

A Hartt School dance alumna, Ane Arrieta ’20, debuted with the Martha Graham Dance Company at the exclusive Jacob's Pillow dance festival in Becket, Massachusetts.

“My four years at The Hartt School were pivotal in getting me to this point. The love and mentorship I received from my teachers and from all the tools and training from the program helped launch me directly into my professional career.”