Testimonials
What Our Dance Community Has To Say...
"I joined The Conservatory at NSB hoping to get closer to pursuing my dream of becoming a professional dancer. Now, looking back at the fulfilling past few years, I feel confident in taking my next steps as a dancer, artist, and human being. It’s difficult for young dancers to navigate how to pursue their advanced training. Luckily, joining the Conservatory program didn’t mean having to sacrifice living at home for quality pre-professional training. Through my high school years I was not only able to satiate my hunger for a rigorous program but also freely explore and grow as a human being. I gained many invaluable experiences at NSB; ones that I will be sure not to overlook in my next phase of life. The privilege of being able to perform a full season’s worth of repertoire is something I will never take for granted. Not only is the amount of performance opportunities impressive, but the quality of each rep mimics that of a professional company. The combination of classical greats, whimsical story ballets, and striking new works that we are given the opportunity to learn and perform is truly a feat. The undying support and quality training at NSB is palpable the moment you step into the building, and I am so grateful to have had such a nurturing environment to grow and mature in the past 4 years."
– Tess Fein, Class of 2024
"I began studying ballet at Northeast School of Ballet at 8 years old and when I turned 12 began seriously training
in NSB’s pre-professional program, The Conservatory. NSB has been a home to me over the past 10 years and it
is hard to believe that I’m about to graduate. The teachers have helped me to grow as a dancer and artist. They have mentored me, believed in me, challenged me, supported me, and given me opportunities to develop in all areas of my life. I am so appreciative of all of the time and energy they have dedicated to helping me. I am excited for my next chapter post graduation but I will always look forward to coming back home to Northeast School of Ballet. Thank you, NSB!"
– Ellis Wolf Annunziata, Class of 2024
"My very first memory of ballet was through NSB. The dancers of the company had visited my preschool class to perform excerpts of “The Nutcracker”. The costumes, the music, and the magic that the dancers seemed to bring to the stage had me hooked. From that moment on, all I wanted to do was dance. My journey with NSB started when I was just 5 years old. I performed in NYB’s 2011 performance of The Nutcracker as a mouse and thought I was the coolest person alive because of this. It only fed my desire to dance even more, so NYB’s The Nutcracker became a tradition
in our household. As my love for dance continued to grow, only a few ballet classes a week were no longer fulfilling my desires. In 2021, I made the decision to leave traditional high school and join The Conservatory Program. This was the absolute best decision I could have made. The Conservatory has allowed me to grow immensely, not just artistically, but characteristically as well. I have been able to find my unique voice within the dance world, thanks to the incredible faculty of NSB. They have pushed me and molded me into the person and dancer that I am today. I also could not have done it without my fellow dancers, with whom I have grown so close with. The Conservatory is like one big family, and the studio is like my home away from home. I can not thank my NSB family enough for making that little preschool girl’s dreams come true."
-Mackenzie Bright, Class of 2024
"I have been part of the conservatory at NSB for five years. Within these years, I have learned numerous lessons I
will carry with me throughout my life. The training I have received is exceptional, and the opportunities they have given us go beyond anything I have been part of. The performances we get to dance in are of professional quality, and I am so lucky to have gained this experience during my middle and high school years. The teachers and peers have been some of my most significant role models who genuinely care about us as dancers and people. The things I have learned from them go beyond just technique as a ballerina. They want us to be good people and succeed in whatever our futures have in store. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to be part of this program and for all of the memories I have made. There is truly no other place as nurturing and supportive as NSB. The Conservatory at NSB will always have a special place in my heart, and I will use all they have given me in the years to come. I will always view NSB as my home and the people within it as my family."
– Elly Pearl O’Connell, Class of 2023
"I’ve been fortunate to have grown up at Northeast School of Ballet. Joining The Conservatory at NSB five years ago made an incredible impact on my life. Every day I have been able to express my creativity with fellow dancers. The Conservatory faculty and comforting environment have changed my life, and the training I’ve received is unlike training anywhere else. It has taught me how to focus, and be more confident and disciplined. I’ve taken risks and learned about myselfas a person and a dancer. These experiences have provided a foundation that will stay with me in whatever career path I choose. I am thankful for all of the opportunities that NSB has given me over the past 13 years, and will treasure my days at Northeast School of Ballet."
– Meghan Hubbard, Class of 2023
"Although I’ve only been at NSB for a short time, I am beyond grateful for the opportunities that the school has provided me thus far. Throughout my first three years of high school, I felt a strong push and pull between my academic and artistic pursuits, finding it difficult to prioritize one over the other. Upon joining the Conservatory however, I began to hope I could pursue both concurrently. The incredible faculty, training, supportive environment, and mentorship at NSB has allowed me to achieve balance in my life while being surrounded by the most amazing, dedicated, and like-minded people. For years, I constantly second guessed myself and worried about external noise, and I am so thankful that my experience at NSB has led me to find clarity and fulfillment. I’ve grown secure in my values and confidence as an individual, and will always appreciate the training and encouragement I’ve received."
– Madeleine Molinari Class of 2023
"Artists have to sacrifice a great deal to pursue their dreams. Young dancers particularly, have to dedicate much of their youth to an arts education with intense training. It is our passion that drives us, with no promises of being a professional dancer, but for me, the joy has always been in trying.
I’m so grateful to have been able to train at the highest level of dance during my adolescent years. I’ve had the privilege of being able to live at home with my family and friends and not have to leave my support system to pursue my dream. I’ve had unparalleled opportunities to learn from world renowned coaches, perform a versatile repertoire, travel, and experience a well-balanced “teenage” life. I know I am the person I am today because I grew up in an environment that was nurturing, safe, and encouraged my individuality as an artist.
There are truly not enough words to express my love and gratitude towards all my teachers at The Conservatory at NSB. You have given me the foundation and confidence to pursue a career I love. I’m inspired to share what I have learned going forward and excited to think of what the future has in store for all of us. Thank you for your guidance and for mentoring the next generation of artists. The Conservatory at NSB will always be my home."
– Christiana Cecere, Class of 2022
"My dream ever since I was a little girl was to dance all day long. Joining the Conservatory at NSB made my dream a reality! When I auditioned and was accepted into the school I knew my life would drastically change, which it did but in the best ways possible. The faculty, atmosphere, and welcoming environment at NSB have made my time in the conservatory even better than I could’ve imagined. Being in a classroom with people who share the same passion and goals has inspired me to be the best dancer I could be. My teachers pushed and encouraged me since day one and believed in me before I even believed in myself. I learned more about myself and who I am as a dancer in the last three years than I ever have before. NSB is a place where I was able to nourish my artistry and grow as a dancer and as a person, it will always be my second home."
– Francesca Lage, Class of 2022
"My time at the Conservatory at NSB has played a huge role in shaping me into the person and dancer I am today. I began this pre-professional program with the excitement of one day becoming a professional dancer, and along with learning how to develop my technique and artistry as a dancer, this program has awarded me many other valuable skills and lessons. Through this program, I have developed a sense of drive and precision that motivates my dancing, maturity as a student, as well as an appreciation for the beautiful. I will be forever grateful for my daily interactions with the teachers and choreographers who invested time in correcting and shaping my artistry, technique, and musicality as well as encouraging me both inside and out of the studio. The performance opportunities we are afforded through the Conservatory are incredible and hold some of my fondest memories. The camaraderie and hard work of the dancers in the Conservatory can be felt the moment you step inside the studio and getting to step on stage with your friends to share a story with your audience is one of the greatest joys of being a dancer at NSB. I cherish the friendships I have made which have sustained me through times of injury and been a source of joy through moments of success and celebration. The Conservatory is a unique community where the young dancer can stretch, explore, and grow in all areas of life and I will never forget this incredible experience."
– Emily Soria, Class of 2022
"I never thought that I would be a ballet dancer. I’ve always felt more comfortable dancing contemporary and lyrical, so joining a ballet school scared me at first. Little did I know there was nothing to be afraid of. I was welcomed into the school with open arms and instantly knew that was where I wanted to be. Even thinking about the very beginning of this journey, makes me emotional. Denise Cecere opened my eyes to the world of ballet and I am so extremely grateful to be able to learn from not only her but every incredible teacher in the faculty. After my first year at the school, we all were told that there was going to be a conservatory program, and I could not contain my excitement. I had already grown so much as a person and dancer from only one year at the school and was ready for another wonderful experience. Being in the inaugural class was so special, and my love for ballet blossomed each and every day. I left in 2017 to pursue ballet at the School of American Ballet and two years later I joined Carolina Ballet as a corps de ballet member. Northeast School of Ballet prepared me for the real world of dance, and I am forever grateful for all the opportunities I was given in those two years at the school.
In 2020, I was in North Carolina performing in a program when we got the news that we had to leave. It was heartbreaking, and I shed many tears in and out of the studio that day. My parents picked me up and we drove home. I didn’t know what I was going to do. Later that year I participated in Northeast School of Ballet’s Summer Intensive through Zoom and I felt like I never left. The year after, I participated in the Summer intensive in person. Being able to dance at NSB again felt no different from the first time I stepped into the building. Little did I know that I would be able to continue my journey and graduate through the conservatory this year. This school is another home to me. I am forever grateful for everything this school has done for me. I am truly blessed. I wouldn’t be the dancer I am today without NSB."
– Jonah Glickman, Inaugural Class and Post Graduate
"Four years ago I was trying to learn ballet and tap off YouTube. I had a love and passion for movement, a dream to pursue dance at a professional level, but I needed a place to train. My time at Northeast School of Ballet has challenged me to develop a strong technique, a versatility of movement, artistry, and to be a smart and confident performer. I’ve learned to be resilient, a hard worker, let go of perfectionism, and focus on being the best I can be. Because of the Conservatory’s mentorship, I was able to build a foundation that will help make my dream a reality.
I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a great training school like The Conservatory at Northeast School of Ballet."
– Myles Kercher, Class of 2022
"Joining the Conservatory in 2017 gave me the opportunity to train at the level I was craving. It brought ballet to the center of my life instead of being extracurricular. The intense training in such a supportive environment has only made my love for ballet grow, and the Conservatory class is the kindest, most encouraging group of dancers that I get to call my best friends. Training in this program has been a unique, special experience that I am so happy to have spent five years in."
– Aidan Hughlett, Class of 2022
"The Conservatory at NSB provided me with the opportunity to explore my artistry as a dancer, through class work and performance the faculty at NSB allowed me the chance to work towards my dreams every day."
– Olivia Cornelius, Conservatory Class of 2019
"My time at The Conservatory at NSB has been a huge step forward in my journey towards becoming a professional dancer. With the various styles of dance taught by the extremely knowledgeable and supportive faculty, along with the many performance opportunities, I feel confident that I am prepared to enter the professional world of dance."
-Melanie Cuddeback, Conservatory Class of 2019
"Growing up at Northeast School of Ballet has been an incredible ride. My seven year old self, would have never imagined that I could have made a career in dance. Every step of my journey at NSB over the past eleven years has motivated me to achieve my dream. During my time the Conservatory, I have been surrounded by the most hardworking students and teachers. They are all so passionate about what they do, and it is evident in every class and rehearsal. I am the person I am today because of the constant support from my peers and teachers. In addition, I will graduate with all the memorable performance opportunities with friends, guest artists, choreographers, directors and musicians both at home and abroad. I’m grateful to have grown up at NSB and have experienced so many blessings at such a young age. It has been amazing!"
– Gia DiLisio, Conservatory Class of 2019
"The Conservatory at Northeast School of Ballet changed my life. I remember the first days when the concept of a Conservatory program was still a distant dream. It was hard to believe a program with this level of rigor and training could be possible. It wasn’t until I saw a draft of the schedule that I knew it would work out. When the program was officially announced I could barely contain my excitement. The idea of being in the studio all day with people that all share the same love and passion for dance was incredible. To this day, the same love and passion flows through the studio. The energy that is shared by the students and teachers is truly magical. Not only has it nurtured my passion for dance, it has helped me to find my voice through movement. Movement has become a conversation with everything around me. Whether it is through the rigorous ballet training or the freedom of improvisation, each member of NSB’s brilliant faculty has helped me to discover an aspect of my voice. I will forever be thankful to everyone that has made my time at the Northeast School of Ballet possible."
– Ethan Maszer, Conservatory Class of 2019
"Deciding to leave the typical high school path for the The Conservatory at Northeast School of Ballet was a hard decision or both my family and I, but ultimately the right decision for my future. The Conservatory gave me a means to fully explore my passion for ballet and realize that it could become my career path. I was also able to continue pursuing my academics at a high level, allowing me to have potential futures in both dance and college. Without the exceptional training and performance opportunities given to students of the Conservatory, I would not be the dancer or the person I am today. NSB has given me many life changing experiences for which I will always be grateful."
– Sophie Michel, Conservatory Class of 2019
"I joined the Conservatory at Northeast School of Ballet at the start of my senior year of high school. Prior to this, my training came from a dance studio that didn’t focus on classical ballet. Ballet has always been my favorite style of dance, but since I felt uncomfortable leaving my childhood studio, I didn’t switch until my last year of high school. Although I treasured the time I spent at my studio, I felt I had learned all I could and it was time to move on. I am so happy with my decision to study at The Conservatory at NSB. All the teachers and dancers are so kind and welcoming, and I really feel that my experience here will help improve my dancing technically and artistically. I feel challenged every day by the curriculum. The faculty gives understandable corrections and I feel they are truly looking out for my wellbeing. I’m so lucky to spend so much of my time focusing on an art form I am truly passionate about, and I am happy to have found my place at NSB.
– Niamh Rollins, Class of 2019.
"The Conservatory Program has been an amazing start to my pre-professional ballet career. I couldn’t have grown without the guidance of the program’s amazing staff. Their professionalism, knowledge, patience and dedication have been instrumental in improving my technique, musicality, and artistry. I could not have asked for a better environment in which to learn and grow. The program has encouraged my passion for dance and it has provided me with an unforgettable experience that I will carry with me throughout my life!"
– Zoe Van Beever, Conservatory Class of 2019
"Joining the conservatory was not an easy decision. To dedicate more than 20 hours of dance a week meant sacrifice, hard work, and an unbelievable amount of perseverance. However, looking back as a senior, I can say with full confidence that I do not regret my decision in the least. The excellent, well-rounded training I received from the remarkable faculty to the generous performing opportunities have become imperative to my growth as a dancer. The faculty members at the Conservatory are not mere teachers, but mentors who care deeply about each dancer and have passed on the joy of dancing to myself. Everyday, when I come into the studio, I sense a camaraderie that is so special and unique to this school and it truly feels like a second home to me. Any dancer who joins The Conservatory will be both challenged and inspired by the incredible amount of talent and artistry here. The Conservatory has cultivated an energy so contagious that it can only empower its dancers to offer that positive energy to the world."
– Christine Yi, Class of 2018
"With every new encounter, first impressions form so quickly. I first heard about the Northeast School of Ballet from a friend of mine, she had gone on about how much she loved it when she went there. I attended their winter workshop in 2014, I wasn’t sure what to expect but I was excited to try something new. After just one week I knew that NSB was special and different than any place that I’ve danced. I learned so much of what I was capable of in that one week that I couldn’t wait to go back, even if it was just once a week. I realized at a somewhat late age that I wanted to get serious with my ballet training. I knew that NSB was the right place for me to learn and grow as a dancer. NSB has opened up a whole new world of opportunities for me, and for that I am grateful. Their accredited teachers are dedicated, passionate, and inspiring and I am so lucky that I get to wake up everyday and take class with such wonderful people. Joining the conservatory at NSB has not only pushed me to improve my technique, but it has also taught me that dance isn’t all about being the best, it’s about striving for excellence. I have learned this year that dance is about connection, emotion, and inspiring others. Even now when I walk into the studio I feel the same magic that I felt when I came into the studio my first week at NSB."
– Ruby D’Amico, Class of 2018
"Two years ago, I was handed a pamphlet. That very pamphlet changed my life. In several ways, it unleashed a world of art, beauty and passion onto me, something that my life desperately needed. I have struggled with severe anxiety all of my life, and with that came the constant search for perfection within myself. When I joined the Conservatory, I quickly realized that I was never going to be able to obtain that sense of perfection within the dance world. But for some odd reason, I didn’t care. Our constant strive for perfection is nearly impossible, yet everyday, for some unbeknownst reason, we show up and pour our blood, sweat and tears, into getting a little bit closer to that goal.I have fallen in love with the constant drive that classical ballet demands from you, as well as with the people that I have searched for that with. The Conservatory has given me the love of ballet, but also a new appreciation for the love and comfort of human connection and friendship. No matter how bad my feet might hurt or how sweaty I am at the end of any given day, I would never trade this experience for anything. If nothing else, I have found myself, my friends, and my art."
– Victoria Cataldo, Class of 2018
"The Conservatory Program was such an eye opening experience as it allowed me to fully understand a real day that a professional dancer typically has. Not only did the training here teach me to be responsible and diligent as a student, it also gives everyone opportunities to learn choreography and perform more often. Having a professional yet supportive working environment is so important to an aspiring dancer and this program does an amazing job at providing that."
– Felicia Isotti, Class of 2017
"In the Conservatory Program, I was able to do what I love every day while finishing high school. The training in different styles, the learning of repertoire, and the performing opportunities is what attracted me to audition. The faculty gave tailored corrections in every class, which helped myself to grow as an individual. By the end of the first day, I knew I was coming back to a forever home."
– Jane Hannon, Class of 2017
“There are no words to describe how valuable your mentorship has been in the past years. You have believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself.”
-NSB Alumni
“The studio was a place for me to be comfortable with myself. NSB provided an atmosphere where I could take risks, experiment, and learn with support and encouragement from others without feeling judged or pressured. This experience has allowed me to prepare for life on a broader and deeper level.”
-NSB Alumni
“Thank you for all you have done to encourage, nurture, teach and foster my daughter’s love for dance. The faculty has made her training such a positive experience."
-Parent
“The impact you have made on my children’s lives is unbelievable…please know I’m forever grateful."
-Parent
“Thank you so much for giving me an opportunity to create and perform, it has meant so much to be embraced by your wonderful community."
-Accompanist
“NSB has made me the dancer and person I am today. Each new year I felt like I loved dance even more. You inspired me to do my best and taught me the importance of a strong sense of self pride. I will hold that with me my entire life."
-NSB Alumni
“NSB has given me so many opportunities to show others my love and passion for dance. During the times I doubted myself the faculty at NSB pushed me to succeed and to never give up. You have taught me to never stop believing in myself. I hope that in years to come I will be able to positively influence the lives of young girls and boys as you have with all the little kids you teach with big dreams.”
-NSB Alumni
“Some of the most important things I’ve learned through my training with NSB are dedication and work ethic. These qualities have carried over into all aspects of my life, especially now that I’m doctor.”
- NSB Alumni
“Their artistry, technique and depth are way beyond their years. Your students are destined for greatness”
-Mark Roxey, Artistic Director of Roxey Ballet
“The instruction at NSB is quite impeccable… I received a lot of individual attention in a warm-hearted manner. Each faculty member pushed me to improve my technique, and my training was personal. Not only did I excel in ballet, but because of my exposure to other dance forms at the school I’m a very well rounded dancer. This has helped me in my career ….I owe everyone at NSB my infinite thanks!"
-NSB Alumni
“My teachers at NSB all encouraged me and made me realize that dancing professionally was a possibility. I received the same if not better training at NSB than other prestigious ballet institutions I have attended throughout my training. Not only did the teachers at NSB make sure I did my best, but made sure I had fun…this combination made me mentally and physically ready to pursue a career in dance.”
-NSB Alumni
“To me NSB is my second home and second family”
-NSB Alumni
“Beyond the technical preparation NSB gave me, what helped me even more was the fact growing up in the school was like being a member of a big extended family. There is a wonderful sense of camaraderie between students….I remain friends with all of them”
-NSB Alumni
“Ever since I can remember NSB has been a part of my life. As I write this I’m starting to cry. I cannot imagine not coming to the school everyday next year when I attend college out of state. NSB has taught me so much and the studio was an amazing place to grow up. I’m very grateful for all the time that you put into mentoring me and I’m sure that what I have learned will serve me beyond ballet.”
-NSB Alumni
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