Top 10 Ballet Schools in the USA

Ballet is an art form that demands discipline, passion, and excellent training. For aspiring dancers, choosing the right school can set the foundation for a successful career. Here’s a list of the top 10 ballet schools in the USA that are known for their rigorous training, accomplished faculty, and successful alumni.

School of American Ballet (SAB) – New York, NY

 

The School of American Ballet is the official school of the New York City Ballet and is considered one of the most prestigious ballet schools in the world. Founded by George Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein, SAB offers rigorous training in the Balanchine technique, producing dancers who are known for their speed, musicality, and precision.

American Ballet Theatre (ABT) Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School – New York, NY

 

The ABT JKO School is renowned for its comprehensive curriculum that includes classical ballet training, modern dance, character dance, and more. It serves as the official school of the American Ballet Theatre, one of the leading ballet companies globally.

San Francisco Ballet School – San Francisco, CA

 

Affiliated with the San Francisco Ballet, this school is known for its strong Vaganova-based training program. The school has produced many dancers who have gone on to have successful careers with the San Francisco Ballet and other major companies worldwide.

Houston Ballet Academy – Houston, TX

 

Houston Ballet Academy is known for its professional training program and connection to the Houston Ballet company. The academy offers a variety of training programs, including a pre-professional program that prepares students for professional careers in ballet.

Pacific Northwest Ballet School – Seattle, WA

 

The Pacific Northwest Ballet School is affiliated with the Pacific Northwest Ballet company. The school is known for its Balanchine-based training and has a reputation for producing dancers who excel in both classical and contemporary ballet.

Boston Ballet School – Boston, MA

 

Boston Ballet School, the official school of Boston Ballet, offers a comprehensive ballet training program. The school is known for its focus on both technique and artistry, and many of its graduates go on to join professional ballet companies.

Joffrey Ballet School – New York, NY

 

Founded by Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino, the Joffrey Ballet School offers a unique and diverse curriculum that includes both classical and contemporary ballet. The school is known for its versatility and for preparing dancers for a wide range of careers in dance.

Miami City Ballet School – Miami, FL

 

Miami City Ballet School provides rigorous training in Balanchine technique and is the official school of the Miami City Ballet. The school has a strong reputation for producing dancers who join major ballet companies around the world.

Ellison Ballet – Professional Training Program – New York, NY

 

Ellison Ballet offers a specialized training program for students committed to a professional ballet career. The school is known for its intensive focus on technique and artistry, producing dancers who have won numerous international ballet competitions.

Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB) – Carlisle, PA

CPYB is recognized for its rigorous training program and has a strong reputation for producing technically proficient dancers. The school has a history of sending its graduates to some of the most prestigious ballet companies worldwide.