Why I Care....

"I don't want people who want to dance, I want people who have to dance." -George Balanchine

Stepping away from George for just a sec, this class really opened my eyes to the history, growth, and influences that are carried within this artistic field. I was someone who knew very little when it came to the history of dance, let alone all the amazing people who've molded this form into such a exhilarating art. With that said, I knew very little about George Balanchine prior to this semester. I had heard his name a few times here and there but couldn't say much else about the man. After studying George for the past couple of months, I can easily say I am a pretty big fan and admirer for what he has contributed to the world of dance. He was so dedicated to his art and his work ethic was unbelievable, hence the 400+ work history behind the man. He brought forth a new, experimental style to ballet to which became most of what people see as American Ballet still to this day. He pushed the boundaries and crossed the line in his exploration of the classical technique and made it his own. His musicality was like that of no other and his love/knowledge for music put him in a league all his own. Got to say, those piano lessons as a little boy definitely payed off. Not too mention he established one of the worlds most renown Ballet company's and school right in New York City. I care because I need to see and learn about people like Balanchine to give me that greater drive and ambition for this art. I care because dance wouldn't be what it is today without George or any of the great artist I've now become introduced too.