Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance

- 55 Bethune St, New York, NY 10014

The Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance, located in the historic West Village, is not just a dance studio—it is the world’s foremost center for the study of the revolutionary Martha Graham Technique. Founded in 1926 by the legendary Martha Graham herself, this school holds the distinction of being the longest continuously operating school of dance in the United States. Its mission is to sustain the integrity of the unique art form developed by Graham while nurturing its continued evolution. Students here are not just learning steps; they are becoming part of a rich and living history of modern dance. The curriculum is comprehensive, offering training in Graham Technique, ballet, contemporary, and more, all taught by current and former members of the Martha Graham Dance Company, some of whom were trained by Graham herself.

While the school is a serious institution for career-minded dancers, it also welcomes individuals who simply want to discover the joy of movement. The school's philosophy is to provide dance education to the community at large, with programs for children and adults of all ages and skill levels. For New Yorkers, the opportunity to study at a place that has trained some of the greatest choreographers and dancers of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Merce Cunningham and Paul Taylor, is a unique and invaluable experience. It's a place where you can learn a technique that has reshaped dance worldwide, from a faculty that is directly connected to its source.

The Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance is situated at 55 Bethune St, New York, NY 10014, in the picturesque and culturally rich West Village. This location is a major benefit for New York residents, placing the school in a neighborhood known for its artistic and bohemian history. The area is highly accessible via public transportation, with several major subway lines nearby. The A, C, E, and L trains stop at 14th Street, and the 1, 2, and 3 trains also have a station at 14th Street, all within a reasonable walking distance from the school. This excellent subway access makes it convenient for students from across the city to attend classes.

The neighborhood itself is a destination, with charming streets, historic buildings, and a wide array of shops and cafes. Students can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the West Village, which is a great place to spend time before or after class. For those with mobility challenges, the school provides a wheelchair-accessible entrance, demonstrating its commitment to being an inclusive space for all. While street parking in the area can be limited, there are several parking garages nearby, offering a solution for those who prefer to drive. The location in the heart of one of NYC's most creative neighborhoods ensures that the school is not just a place to study dance, but a place to immerse oneself in the artistic energy of the city.

The Martha Graham School offers a diverse range of dance programs and services, catering to a wide spectrum of students from young children to seasoned professionals.

• Dance Programs: The school offers various programs, including the two-year Certificate Program for pre-professional students, the Independent Program for those seeking rigorous study, and the Teacher Training Program. They also offer classes for teens and younger children, making it a place where budding artists can grow from a young age.

• Ballet Training: While the school is known for its contemporary dance, it also provides comprehensive "Ballet Training," recognizing the importance of classical technique as a foundation for all dancers. The school's curriculum integrates ballet with the Graham Technique to provide a well-rounded education.

• Intensive Programs: For students who wish to progress rapidly, the school offers intensive programs. These are rigorous, focused courses designed for students and professionals who are either unable to attend year-round or want to accelerate their training.

• Online Classes: In addition to on-site services, the school offers "Online classes." This option provides flexibility for students, allowing them to train and participate in some aspects of the curriculum from the comfort of their home, a convenient feature for busy New Yorkers.

• Open Classes: The school welcomes dancers of all levels to its open classes. This is a great way for beginners or those with a casual interest to experience the Graham Technique without a long-term commitment. The school prides itself on being a place where anyone can walk in, register, and begin to dance.

The Martha Graham School stands out for several unique features and highlights that define its place as a leader in dance education.

• A Rich Historical Legacy: The school is the oldest continuously operating school of dance in the United States. Its faculty includes members who have worked directly with Martha Graham, ensuring that the integrity of her technique is preserved and passed on to the next generation of dancers.

• Commitment to Training Excellence: The school's mission is to train dancers and teachers to the highest standard. Students advance through a rigorous evaluation process, ensuring that the quality of instruction and the skill of the dancers remain at a professional level.

• Inclusivity and Accessibility: The school is noted as being "Good for kids" and offers programs for all ages and levels, from children to adults, and from beginners to professionals. The wheelchair-accessible entrance and the option for "Online classes" further highlight the school's desire to be accessible to a wide audience.

• Professional and Academic Focus: The school offers certificate programs that can support international student visas, making it a serious academic institution. It provides a holistic education that includes not just dance technique, but also composition, repertory, dance history, and music.

You can get in touch with the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance using the following contact information:

Address: 55 Bethune St, New York, NY 10014, USAPhone: (212) 229-9200

For New Yorkers, choosing a dance school means considering a variety of factors, and the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance offers a unique set of compelling reasons. While some reviews mention negative experiences with customer service, it is important to consider the school's historical significance and its primary focus on high-level artistic training. It's an institution dedicated to a legacy, not simply a commercial business. For serious dancers or those who appreciate a rigorous, classical approach to contemporary dance, the opportunity to train in the legendary Graham Technique is unparalleled. The school is a living piece of dance history, and its faculty provides a direct lineage to one of the most influential figures in modern dance.

Furthermore, the school's programs are not just for professionals. The availability of classes for children and open classes for adults of all levels makes it a valuable resource for the entire community. The ability to take online classes also provides a flexibility that is perfect for the busy New York lifestyle. For those who want more than just a dance class and seek a deep, meaningful connection to the art form, the Martha Graham School is the place to be. Its commitment to artistic excellence, coupled with its inclusive and accessible offerings, makes it a truly worthwhile choice for anyone passionate about dance.

Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance

55 Bethune St, New York, NY 10014, USA