Jenifer Ringer’s New Role at School of American Ballet

Jenifer Ringer, the celebrated New York City Ballet principal, is back at the School of American Ballet in a new role: teacher and guiding light. “Y’all” is pleasant enough on its own, but to hear it more than a dozen times during a ballet class in New York City is a happy find. As in: “I want y’all to move a lot more. If you fall off your pirouette that is ohhh-kay.” That voice, that word, that Southern sound — Jenifer Ringer is back in town.

Jenifer Ringer’s Return to the School of American Ballet

Ringer’s approach to teaching emphasizes not only technical skill but also the importance of personal expression and confidence. She encourages students to fully embrace their individuality, urging them to declare their presence through their movements. This philosophy aligns with her belief that ballet is not just about precision but also about conveying emotion and personality. Her method aims to cultivate dancers who are both technically proficient and artistically vibrant. By fostering an environment of encouragement and self-assurance, she hopes to inspire her students to explore their unique voices within the art form. Ringer’s journey through personal and professional challenges informs her understanding of the complexities involved in training young dancers, enabling her to guide them with empathy and insight. Her dedication to nurturing both the talent and the spirit of each dancer highlights her commitment to holistic development, ensuring that her students are prepared for the demands of a professional career in ballet and beyond.

Restructuring the School’s Leadership Team

Ringer’s influence as a teacher goes beyond technical instruction, tapping into the deeper aspects of being a performer. She emphasizes the significance of how a dancer presents themselves, both on stage and in life. This translates to her unique approach towards guiding her students in understanding the essence of their presence and performance. Her methods aren’t solely focused on physical prowess but on empowering dancers to convey their individuality and artistry. It’s about instilling confidence so that every entrance and exit reflects not just their skill but their identity as artists, making sure that each movement is imbued with personal story and conviction.

Jenifer Ringer’s Approach to Musicality and Efficiency in Dance

When Stafford reached out to Ringer with an offer to work closely at the School of American Ballet, she was taken by surprise. Although familiar with each other from their time as dance partners at City Ballet, Ringer hadn’t anticipated such a significant role. Stafford, remembering their shared experiences, understood her capabilities in the most demanding settings. In those moments, when their names appeared together on casts or rehearsal schedules, it brought him an internal sense of celebration, knowing she would be a dependable and inspiring partner. Ringer, known for her versatile and expressive performances, never originally saw herself stepping into a teaching role. However, the chance to shape and guide young dancers as part of the school’s leadership team was an opportunity that aligned perfectly with her evolving perspective on dance education.

Building Positive Memories in New York City

As Jenifer Ringer continues to navigate her new role at the School of American Ballet, she brings with her a deep understanding of the complexities of ballet and life itself. Her dedication to fostering both technical excellence and personal growth in her students has positioned her as a valuable mentor in the dance community. Ringer’s journey from dancer to teacher underscores her belief in the importance of grace and mercy within the rigorous world of ballet, fostering an environment where young dancers can flourish as artists and individuals. Through her guidance, Ringer aims to create a nurturing space that champions both skill and humanity, ensuring that the next generation of dancers is well-equipped for the challenges and beauty of the art form.