Teaching Philosophy Statement

Early on in life I came to the conclusion I didn't want to spend my life as a dancer - I found much more joy in working 'behind the scenes', teaching and choreographing for dancers. As my career in this field progressed I found myself developing a philosophy that, often times, was different from a lot of other teachers I came into contact with. For me, teaching is about the student, each individual student, their needs, their desires, and their abilities. A good teacher will teach a student to be a better dancer. A great teacher will teach a student how to be a better person. This is the teacher I wanted to be - one who helped each student realize their own potential, build upon their strengths, strengthen their weaknesses, and inspire each dancer to pass upon their knowledge to someone else.

 

The art of dance is about so much more than great technique. Great technique should be taught from the beginning so that the foundation is there to build so much more. Coupled with that should be an innate understanding of the importance of performance, of the power of entertaining an audience. Also should be some historical reference point, knowing where each style and step originated so that the true meaning and intention of the original thought is kept intact.

 

As a teacher, my job is to bring out the freedom of movement in each student, and encourage them to dance from their very soul, trusting their technique and allowing the emotion of the moment to come through. Respect for the art form and each other is also very important for me, both in and away from the classroom. I require my students to be open to new ideas and thought processes, understanding that once the basics are mastered you must allow yourself to become the artist and find the art form we call dance.

 

As a choreographer, my dances are my way of expressing myself, my thoughts, my ideas, my emotions, my life. Music is a tool that goes with this and I research music on a continuing basis, always searching for that perfect sound to go with my movement. A dance is not complete without the right combination of dancer(s), music, costume, and choreography.

 

I am a true believer that anyone can dance, and we do, at some point in our lives. Can we all be professional dancers? No. And I don't lead my students on to believe so either. But, there is a place for dance in the life of every individual, and especially for those who study dance. Dancers are unique unto themselves. We understand one another even when others do not! We are a community that stretches beyond the boundaries of city, state, or country. I love being a part of that community and I love sharing my knowledge of dance with future dancers, dance educators, and dance supporters.

 

                                                                                                                                                                       ~ Miss Annette