A dancer who wants to become a ballet master needs to develop a high degree of proficiency and skill along with teaching and coordinating abilities. Ballet masters provide training and education, work with choreographers to rehearse pieces, and may play a role in the artistic development of a company. This work requires substantial experience and training. Many ballet masters are former professional dancers with decades of experience.
The first step for someone who intends to become a ballet master is dance training. There are several schools of ballet, such as classical and modern, but all require years of training, preferably starting at a young age. Students should consider attending a ballet school attached to a specific dance company, as this can provide more employment opportunities upon graduation. While graduates of the school are not guaranteed places in the dance company, the prestige of the institution can be helpful when applying into other dance companies.
Dance experience is critical for someone who wants to become a ballet master. After training and auditioning for a role in a company, dancers can start to build up repertoires and reputations. They should work their way into leading positions. It can help to study the ballet master closely, offer mentoring to other dancers, and volunteer for educational opportunities to learn more about dance instruction. Ballet masters need to be flexible and knowledgeable, and should try to remain with the same company unless a better opportunity with a more prestigious organization arises.
Ballet masters typically have assistants. This type of position can often be a good starting position for a dancer who intends to become a ballet master, as it will provide work experience and learning opportunities. As people retire, dancers can apply for these positions and set themselves up for applications when a full ballet master position becomes available. This work can help dancers transition from full-time dance to less grueling work as they age, and as their bodies are less able to withstand the rigors of performance.
Applicants for this position are more likely to be considered when they display a thorough knowledge of a company's history, style, repertoire, and mission. The ballet master must help the company maintain its artistic integrity through dancer training, work with choreographers and artistic directors, and selection and training of new dancers. Someone who wants to become a ballet master needs to know the company inside and out to offer the best guidance to its dancers.
