Teaching
The best teachers recognize that they, too, are students. They allow themselves to continuously learn not only from themselves and their superiors, but from the vast knowledge of their own students and the world that surrounds them.
Hannah's Pedagogical Practice
Autonomy for each dancer in the room is at the heart of my pedagogical practice as a dance instructor. Alongside my aspirations for my students' technical development in the dance disciplines I introduce to them, my primary objective is for them to feel empowered to make their own informed choices about their bodies and the ways in which they move. Regardless of their individual background, previous training, or age, every dancer carries a wealth of knowledge (conscious and subconscious) with them at all times. As an instructor, my role is not only to impart my own insight onto my students, but additionally to help them build confidence in all of the wisdom that already lives inside them. I deeply cherish every opportunity I have to get to know my students, and support their independent journeys of growth as artists by challenging them to advance to the next level.
One of the most critical components of my students' development is the environment of the dance classroom which they explore in. I aim to facilitate a classroom culture which encourages the students to nurture their bodies and minds by actively responding to the ever-changing needs that they present. There is no "one-size-fits-all" body for dance and there isn't a universal method of physical expression that works for everyone, every second of every day. Just as the world around us is constantly shifting, so are we. In my pedagogical practice, I take every possible step that I can to honor that.
I have had the great honor to work with a vast array of incredible artists and mentors who have taught me so much of what I know about dance and the world at large. Dancing is a privilege which I don't take lightly–one that has been gifted to humankind from thousands of generations of cultural innovation and history. Appreciating the rich and diverse heritage of dance has been one of my greatest pleasures, and as an instructor, I view it as my responsibility to share this perspective with my students so they too can appreciate the broader context of the artform which we practice together.
In the Studio
Dance classes should be safe spaces for students to explore their unique movement styles and develop creative voices as individuals while being supported by a community of peers sharing the same, and different experiences. Below are a small selection of magical moments I've shared with students in the studio during my choreographic residencies at Mount Holyoke College.
Ready to Learn?
Whether you're seeking instructional support for regular classes, workshops, birthday parties, or teaching residencies, I'd love to lend my support and expertise.