A group of aspiring dancers are spending time in a dance studio at The Juilliard School.

The dancers are learning more about the Horton technique, developed by legendary dancer and choreographer Lester Horton.

What You Need To Know

  • The Juilliard School was founded in 1905 as The Institute of Musical Art 

  • The school joined the campus of Lincoln Center in 1969

  • The school offers programs in dance, drama and music

Their instructor is Milton Myers, who specializes in teaching the technique. 

“He is a master teacher in every way. He has been teaching this technique for decades and is one of our world’s most incredible dance teachers,” Alicia Graf Mack, dean and director of dance at The Juilliard School, said.

The class is part of a three-week summer dance intensive for high school students at Juilliard on the Lincoln Center Campus.

Nearly 400 students applied via video, and only 45 students were chosen to experience conservatory-style education at Juilliard.

Graf Mack said the program has been in existence for more than 20 years.

“We are aiming to create a vibrant community of young artists who are interested in collaborating and innovating,” Graf Mack said. 

It’s not just dance at Juilliard this summer. Three new programs were added to the Juilliard’s Summer Music including voice, piano and composition.

The goal is to open up doors for young people from many backgrounds to hone their skills at a high level.

“Having these programs is a way for young people to see themselves at Juilliard, and really prepare them for auditioning at this school and other places to really make music at the highest level,” David Ludwig, dean and director of the music division at Juilliard, said.

For Graf Mack, who had to overcome injuries and illness during her own dance career, the program brings an opportunity for students to see what lies ahead — a road that will have some ups and downs.

“Those ebbs will be followed by these amazing flows of incredible energy and experiences in their professional career,” Graf Mack said. “I love talking to young students about what they have in store ahead of them and to keep them inspired.”

Applications open for next year’s summer program on Sept. 1. Scholarships and financial aid are available.

For more information, visit juilliard.edu.