Welcome to the Pre-Professional Division at
School of Nashville Ballet

At School of Nashville Ballet, we are committed to fostering the next generation of ballet professionals by providing a comprehensive, versatile, and personalized training environment. Our newly structured Pre-Professional Division is designed to accommodate the unique needs of dedicated dancers seeking a high-caliber ballet education alongside their academic pursuits.

Our award-winning faculty's distinguished achievements in choreography, performance, and pedagogy set the foundation for an environment where young dancers are inspired to push the boundaries of their artistry. The successes of our alumni, who have secured placements in prestigious ballet companies and won accolades at renowned competitions such as the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), American Dance Competition Youth International Ballet Competition (ADCIBC), Universal Ballet Competition (UBC), stand as a testament to the quality and effectiveness of our training.

Whether your aspirations are to grace stages worldwide or to enrich your life through the disciplined study of ballet, School of Nashville Ballet is dedicated to helping you achieve your fullest potential. Join us and take the first step towards turning your dreams into reality, supported by a legacy of excellence and a community that believes in your talent and vision.

meet our pre-professional division faculty

 
 

morning program:

Monday to Friday | 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Saturday | 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Focus: This option is ideal for home-schooled students or those participating in online schooling, allowing them to integrate their academic studies with intensive ballet training during the day.

 

Program Highlights

  • Our program emphasizes individual growth and skill development, ensuring that each dancer receives the attention and guidance needed to reach their full potential.

  • Learn from our distinguished faculty, including renowned dancers and choreographers, who bring a wealth of experience and dedication to the classroom.

  • Our curriculum covers all facets of classical ballet, contemporary techniques, and character dance, complemented by classes in conditioning to promote strength and injury prevention.

  • Dancers will have the chance to showcase their talents in performances, offering invaluable stage experience and exposure to a broader audience.

  • We understand the importance of education. Our schedules are designed to accommodate academic commitments, allowing students to excel both in the studio and the classroom.

  • Our Pre-Professional Division offers specialized training for dancers aiming to compete in prestigious competitions such as the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP),  American Dance Competition Youth International Ballet Competition (ADCIBC), Universal Ballet Competition (UBC), and Prix de Lausanne. Through personalized coaching, repertoire selection, and performance techniques, we equip our students with the skills, confidence, and artistic expression necessary to stand out on the international stage.

  • Our ultimate goal is to nurture dancers through our program levels, preparing them to become members of the Nashville Ballet company, while recognizing the diverse aspirations and talents of each individual. For those whose paths may lead elsewhere, we offer comprehensive support in their search and audition process for companies that align with their unique abilities or offer more opportunities. Our commitment extends beyond training; we are dedicated to helping our dancers find their place in the world of professional ballet, wherever that may be.

 

In Nashville, School of Nashville Ballet isn't just a place to train; it's a place where young dancers are immersed in a community rich with opportunities for artistic growth, performance, and personal development. Nashville is not just where you'll train; it's where you'll be transformed.

 

audition FOR OUR PRE-PROFESSIONAL DIVISION

Let your journey to excellence begin with us.

We invite dedicated young dancers to become part of our Pre-Professional Division, where passion meets professionalism. Whether you choose our Morning Program or the Early Release option, you'll be embarking on a journey of artistic and personal development in one of the most supportive and enriching ballet communities.

 

In-person Audition

We encourage all prospective students to audition in person. To schedule your audition, please e-mail school@nashvilleballet.com to request a personal placement appointment.

video audition

If you are unable to attend an in-person audition, you are welcome to apply via video audition and online application. A $25 fee applies.

  • Videos should be no longer than 10 minutes long and include one of the following:

    Ballet Work that includes:

    • Barre work taken from the front and side (plies, tendu, rond de jambe, developed)

    • Center work (adagio, petite, and grand allegro, with grand allegro including pirouettes)

    • Pointe work (two combinations of your choice)

    Solo Performance:

    • The dancer’s body must be clearly visible

    A link to your audition video may be submitted as part of your online application or sent separately by email, along with a resume and headshot, to school@nashvilleballet.com. 

    Please use the following subject: “(Your Name) for (Program you are applying for)”.

    To ensure your submission was received, please follow up by emailing school@nashvilleballet.com one week after sending to request status.

 

For more enrollment information and to become part of our dynamic Pre-Professional Division, please contact us directly. Your future in ballet starts here at School of Nashville Ballet.

Why Nashville?

Nashville, with its vibrant cultural scene and rich artistic heritage, provides an inspiring backdrop for our dancers. School of Nashville Ballet not only offers premier dance training but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among our students, encouraging creativity, collaboration, and personal growth. 

Here's why Nashville is the ideal setting for your journey in dance:

Community Support

Nashville's warm and inclusive community cherishes and supports the arts, creating an encouraging environment for young dancers to thrive. With enthusiastic audiences and a network of arts advocates, students experience firsthand the joy and fulfillment of contributing to a community that values their art

Performance Opportunities

The city's numerous venues, from theaters to intimate stages, offer a myriad of opportunities for public performances. Dancers gain invaluable experience performing for diverse audiences, honing their stage presence, and understanding the impact of live performance.

Cultural Richness

Nashville's thriving arts scene extends beyond its famed music industry. The city is home to a flourishing community of visual arts, theater, and dance, providing a fertile ground for artistic inspiration and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Our dancers benefit from exposure to diverse artistic expressions, enriching their understanding and appreciation of the arts.

Artistic Collaboration

Proximity to top musicians, artists, and creators allows for unique collaborative projects. These interdisciplinary experiences not only broaden our dancers' artistic horizons but also prepare them for the evolving landscape of contemporary ballet and dance.

Educational Resources

Beyond dance, Nashville offers excellent educational opportunities, making it easier for our Pre-Professional Division students to balance their academic and ballet training. The city's commitment to education and youth development aligns with our mission to support well-rounded individuals.

Inspiring Environment

Nashville's picturesque settings, from its scenic parks to historic landmarks, provide a beautiful and stimulating environment for creativity and growth. Dancers find inspiration in the city's beauty, fostering a deep connection between their art and their surroundings.