Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance

- 316 E 63rd St, New York, NY 10065

The Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance is a pivotal institution in the world of American dance, and a true gem for New Yorkers with a passion for the art form. As the oldest professional school of dance in the United States, it carries the profound legacy of its founder, the legendary choreographer Martha Graham. The school's mission is to not only preserve the integrity of the unique art form she created but also to nurture its evolution in the 21st century. The foundation of all training at the school is the Martha Graham Technique, a powerful and expressive style built on the principles of "contraction and release." This technique is a cornerstone of modern dance, making the school a vital training ground for aspiring dancers from around the world. The faculty at the Martha Graham School is composed of current and former members of the Martha Graham Dance Company, some of whom even danced with Graham herself. This ensures a level of authenticity and expertise that is unparalleled. For New Yorkers, the opportunity to train at such a historically significant and professionally rigorous institution is a unique privilege. Whether a student is a serious pre-professional dancer or a curious adult looking to discover the joy of movement, the school offers a wide range of programs designed to serve different goals and commitment levels. The school is more than just a place of training; it is a community of artists dedicated to the art of dance, providing a challenging yet supportive environment where dancers can push their physical and artistic boundaries.

Located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance holds a prestigious address at 316 E 63rd St, New York, NY 10065, USA. This prime New York City location makes it a central and highly accessible destination for dancers and students from all five boroughs and beyond. Its proximity to major subway lines and bus routes ensures a convenient commute for those relying on public transportation, which is the lifeblood of the city. While specific information on physical accessibility is not fully detailed in all public sources, the school's commitment to serving a wide range of students, from children to professionals, suggests a general openness. The central location also makes it an ideal spot for international students, as the school offers programs that support F-1 Student Visas. The neighborhood is well-known and bustling, providing easy access to various amenities for students. For a dance school with such a global reputation, being situated in a world-renowned city like New York is a perfect fit. The location on a midtown avenue is a key feature, as it is easily recognizable and navigates well for both local and out-of-town visitors. The combination of its historical significance and its prime urban address makes it a highly desirable place for dance education in New York.

Services Offered

• Dance Programs: A variety of structured programs designed for different levels and career goals, including the Two-Year Certificate Program for pre-professionals, the Independent Program for rigorous study, and the Teacher Training Program.

• Ballet Training: The school offers comprehensive ballet training, which is an essential part of the curriculum and is structured to enhance and support the study of the Graham Technique.

• Intensive Programs: Dancers can enroll in rigorous Winter and Summer Intensives, which are specifically designed for students and professionals who wish to progress rapidly in the Graham Technique and related disciplines.

• Youth Programs: The school offers a range of programs for young artists, including the Teens@Graham and PreTeens@Graham programs, which are specially crafted to help aspiring dancers improve their skills.

• Open Classes: The school provides open classes for dancers of all levels, from "Absolute Beginner" to "Advanced/Professional," allowing individuals to take a single class without committing to a full program.

• Choreography and Repertory: In addition to technical training, students have the opportunity to study dance composition and learn classic choreography from the vast repertory of the Martha Graham Dance Company.

• Other Techniques: The curriculum extends beyond Graham to include other styles such as contemporary, which provides a well-rounded dance education.

Features and Highlights

• Historical Significance: Founded in 1926, the school is the oldest professional dance school in the United States, offering a unique connection to the history of modern dance.

• Highly Esteemed Faculty: Classes are taught by current and former members of the Martha Graham Dance Company, ensuring a high level of professional and authentic instruction.

• Renowned Curriculum: The school's curriculum is centered on the Martha Graham Technique, which is based on the principles of "contraction and release," and is considered a cornerstone of modern dance worldwide.

• Good for kids: The school offers dedicated programs for young artists, such as PreTeens@Graham and Teens@Graham, making it a viable option for children and adolescents.

• Comprehensive Programs: In addition to the core technique, the school’s programs include ballet, contemporary, composition, dance history, anatomy, and music, providing a holistic education for aspiring professionals.

• International Student Support: The school is a rare institution that can support international students with F-1 Student Visas, making it a global hub for contemporary dance training.

• Flexible Payment Options: The school accepts debit cards, providing a convenient payment method for students.

Contact Information

Address: 316 E 63rd St, New York, NY 10065, USA

Phone: (212) 229-9200

Mobile Phone: +1 212-229-9200

What is worth choosing

For New Yorkers seeking a serious and professional dance education, the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance is a truly exceptional and worthy choice. The most compelling reason to choose this school is its unparalleled legacy and the authenticity of its training. As the oldest professional dance school in the nation, it is a living part of American dance history. Students have the rare opportunity to learn the iconic Graham Technique directly from the source, with faculty who have a deep, personal connection to the work and its founder. This level of professional training is not something one can find just anywhere. The school's programs are meticulously designed to cater to a wide range of needs, from pre-professional dancers committed to a career in the arts to recreational students who want to explore a new passion. The flexibility of options, from full-time certificate programs to single open classes, ensures that there is an entry point for almost everyone. The school also stands out for its comprehensive curriculum, which goes beyond physical movement to include subjects like dance history, music, and anatomy, providing a truly holistic education. While no customer reviews were available in the provided information, the school's reputation and its long-standing presence in the dance world serve as a powerful endorsement. Its graduates have gone on to join prestigious dance companies worldwide, a testament to the quality of the training. Furthermore, the fact that the school offers programs "good for kids," such as the Teens@Graham and PreTeens@Graham initiatives, shows its commitment to nurturing talent from a young age. In a city with countless dance studios, the Martha Graham School is not just a place to take a class; it is a place to connect with a living history and become part of a powerful tradition. For any dancer who is serious about their craft or anyone who wants to experience a piece of New York's artistic heritage, this school is the definitive choice.

Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance

316 E 63rd St, New York, NY 10065, USA