Talk with George Balanchine

George Balanchine (1904-1983) was a prolific 20th century choreographer, often regarded as the foremost contemporary choreographer in the world of ballet. Born in Saint Petersburg, Russia, he trained at the Imperial Ballet School and later graduated from the Petrograd Conservatory of Music. After leaving Russia, he spent some time working in Europe and collaborating with impresarios like Serge Diaghilev and the Ballets Russes.

Balanchine moved to the United States in 1933 at the invitation of arts patron Lincoln Kirstein. The following year, they founded the School of American Ballet. His approach to ballet was innovative and unique, characterized by a dynamic speed and clarity in structure, combined with a neoclassical style that stripped away the more elaborate theatrical settings and costumes typical of the era's classical ballets. This style appealed to a sense of contemporary aesthetics and was reinforced by Balanchine's own musicality—he often said, "See the music, hear the dance."

In 1948, Balanchine and Kirstein founded the New York City Ballet (NYCB), with Balanchine as the artistic director. Under his direction, NYCB quickly became a leading institution in the world of ballet. Many of his works are considered masterpieces and are performed by ballet companies all over the world. Some of his most famous ballets include "Serenade," "The Nutcracker," "Apollo," "Agon," and "Symphony in C."

Balanchine’s influence on ballet has been profound and lasting, with his emphasis on speed, flow, and the aesthetic synergy between music and movement. He trained and created roles for many distinguished dancers and choreographers, leaving a lasting legacy in the dance world.

George Balanchine's legacy in the world of dance is profoundly influential and diverse, spanning creative innovations in choreography, changes in ballet aesthetics, and the establishment of major institutions that have nurtured countless dancers and choreographers.

1. Choreographic Innovation: Balanchine is famously known for developing what is often termed as "neoclassical" ballet. This style strips away the ornate costumes and sets of classical ballet and focuses more on the dance and movement itself, often characterized by its speed, energy, and precision. Balanchine favored a dynamic approach to choreography, often integrating classical technique with a modern perspective that emphasized line, form, and musicality. His work was known for its abstraction, with pieces that were not explicitly narrative but instead focused on the art of movement in sync with music.

2. Repertoire and Influence on Modern Ballet: Balanchine's diverse repertoire includes iconic works like "Serenade," "The Four Temperaments," "Apollo," "Agon," and "Jewels." These works have not only become staples in the ballet world but have also influenced the development of contemporary ballet. His choreography is studied and performed worldwide, serving as a critical benchmark for excellence in dance.

3. New York City Ballet (NYCB): Perhaps one of his most lasting contributions is the co-founding of the New York City Ballet in 1948, where he served as the artistic director until his death in 1983. Under his direction, NYCB became one of the premier ballet companies in the world, known for its rigorous technique and expansive repertoire. NYCB served as a launching pad for many prominent dancers and choreographers who went on to leave their mark on the dance world.

4. Training and Technique: Balanchine also co-founded the School of American Ballet in 1934, which continues to be a leading institution in ballet education. The technique he developed emphasizes speed, agility, and strength, with a particular focus on perfecting the extension of the leg and a quick, precise footwork. Balanchine’s technique and style are distinctly recognizable and continue to influence the training of ballet dancers globally.

5. Broadening the Audience for Ballet: Balanchine was instrumental in making ballet more accessible to the public. He believed that ballet could be enjoyed by all and worked to broaden its appeal. Through choreographing works to contemporary music, including jazz, and by engaging with popular culture, he tried to make ballet relevant for new audiences.

Overall, George Balanchine's legacy is that of a visionary who permanently transformed the landscape of ballet. His forward-thinking approach to dance, devotion to musicality, and relentless innovation left an indelible mark that continues to influence dancers, choreographers, and ballet enthusiasts around the world.

George Balanchine significantly reshaped the world of classical ballet with his innovative approach and choreographic style. Here’s how he brought about change:

1. Neoclassical Ballet: Balanchine is known as the father of neoclassical ballet, a style that strips away the elaborate sets and costumes typical of classical ballets to focus more on the dance itself. Neoclassical ballet emphasizes speed, agility, and clarity of structure, and it often has a greater sense of symmetry and uses abstract concepts rather than storytelling.

2. Technique and Aesthetics: Balanchine favored a more athletic and dynamic style of dance, demanding flexibility, speed, and precision from his dancers. He emphasized clean lines, extended limbs, and a deep plié, which significantly influenced ballet technique. His focus on the aesthetic of "dance for dance's sake" rather than dance as a vehicle solely for narrative or drama shifted how audiences perceived ballet performances.

3. Repertory Development: Balanchine’s prolific choreography added numerous new works to the ballet repertory. Among these are iconic pieces like "Serenade," "Jewels," "Apollo," and "The Four Temperaments." His works are celebrated for their musicality and integration of movement with music, particularly his collaborations with contemporary composers like Igor Stravinsky.

4. Dancer Transformation: Balanchine had a specific vision for the ideal dancer – famously lean, with long legs and arms and a small head. This preference influenced training and selection in ballet companies around the world and altered the physical aesthetics of ballet dancers.

5. The Balanchine Method: While he did not develop a formalized method like the Vaganova or Cecchetti techniques, Balanchine’s teaching principles and approaches to choreography had a profound influence on how ballet is taught and performed globally. His style required a ballet technique that emphasizes speed and musicality alongside precision and expressiveness without overwrought emotionalism.

6. Institutional Legacy: Balanchine co-founded the New York City Ballet (NYCB) in 1948, which became one of the premier ballet companies in the world. Under his leadership, NYCB fostered an environment of creativity and innovation and became a beacon for new talent and ideas in ballet, promoting the careers of numerous dancers, choreographers, and composers.

7. Global Influence: Through his works and his disciples, Balanchine’s influence has spread worldwide, shaping the work of many other choreographers and the aesthetic preferences of countless ballet companies. The reach of his impact ensures that his style and principles are taught and performed around the globe today.

George Balanchine’s contributions to ballet went well beyond simply creating steps. He reconceived the framework of ballet, impacting the art form both artistically and institutionally in ways that continue to resonate in the dance world today.

George Balanchine was highly innovative in his approach to casting and choreography, shaping not only the works he created but also ballet's development in the 20th century. His approach was marked by a few key principles and practices:

1. Non-Traditional Casting: Balanchine often cast dancers based on their ability and potential rather than their seniority or traditional attributes such as body type or ethnicity. He looked for what a dancer could bring to a role in terms of their unique qualities and energy. This was part of his broader vision to break from the classical ballet mold and embrace a more diverse and dynamic expression of human movement in dance.

2. Neutrality in Costuming and Scenery: In many of his ballets, Balanchine chose simple costumes and minimal scenery to keep the focus on the movement rather than the spectacle. This choice in casting and presentation reinforced the idea that a dancer’s skill and expression were paramount, which was a shift from the more narrative-driven and ornate productions common in classical ballet. This practice allowed for a broader range of dancers to perform various roles because the focus was less on fitting a specific visual or storybook ideal and more on the interpretation and execution of movement.

3. Focus on the Dance Itself: Balanchine emphasized that "ballet is woman." This philosophy highlighted the dancer's role as central to the performance, often stripping away complex plots to focus on the abstract form and technical prowess. His choreography was known for its musicality — he had a profound respect for and understanding of music, often driving his creation of movements that were in close dialogue with musical compositions.

4. Versatility and Cross-Training: Balanchine encouraged versatility in his dancers. He is noted for incorporating elements from various dance forms, including modern dance and jazz, into his choreography. This approach required dancers to adapt to different styles and techniques, often leading Balanchine to cast dancers in roles that would challenge and expand their capacities.

5. Development of Dancers: Balanchine was recognized for his role in developing dancers within his company, the New York City Ballet. He was adept at identifying talent early and nurturing it carefully. Dancers like Suzanne Farrell, Maria Tallchief, and Tanaquil Le Clercq became muses under his tutelage, often having roles created specifically for them that played to their strengths and pushed the boundaries of their technical and expressive abilities.

Balanchine's approach to casting and choreography ultimately aimed to serve his artistic philosophy that ballet should be a celebration of movement and music rather than merely a narrative form of entertainment. His influence remains evident in the way ballet companies around the world approach performance and dancer development today.

George Balanchine was renowned for his ability to maximize the unique talents and attributes of his dancers, which was instrumental in achieving his artistic vision. He was a master at recognizing the distinct strengths of each dancer and choreographing pieces that showcased those qualities.

1. Tailoring Choreography: Balanchine often created roles specifically tailored to the abilities of his dancers. He would observe their natural movement, strengths, and personality, and then design choreography that highlighted these elements. For example, he created the ballet "Agon" with Arthur Mitchell in mind, leveraging Mitchell's powerful presence and technical prowess.

2. Collaboration and Inspiration: Balanchine was known for his collaborative approach. He allowed dancers to bring their own interpretations and feelings to the roles, which often led to the evolution of the choreography itself. This collaboration often inspired Balanchine to modify or create new elements that better suited the dancer’s unique style and capabilities.

3. Technical Rigor and Clarity: Balanchine demanded clarity, speed, and precision. His style—often described as neoclassical—emphasized a streamlined aesthetic that stripped away the ornateness of traditional ballet to focus on pure dance. He worked closely with his dancers in rehearsals to ensure they understood and could execute his vision with the technical precision he demanded.

4. Encouraging Versatility: Balanchine challenged his dancers to go beyond their comfort zones, often pushing them to handle a variety of styles. This not only enhanced their capabilities but also enriched his choreographies with varied textures and emotions.

5. Building Trust and Fostering Growth: Balanchine’s method involved building a trusting relationship with his dancers. He provided them with continuous feedback, rigorous training, and the opportunity to perform diverse roles. This environment not only motivated the dancers but also fostered an atmosphere of artistic growth and exploration.

Through these methods, Balanchine was not only able to achieve his vision but also contributed significantly to the evolution of ballet as an art form, influencing generations of dancers and choreographers.

One of George Balanchine's more controversial works is "The Prodigal Son," which premiered in 1929 for the Ballets Russes, with music by Sergei Prokofiev and designs by Georges Rouault. This ballet is based on the biblical parable of the same name, and while the subject and its portrayal weren’t inherently controversial, the bold, expressionistic style marked a significant departure from traditional ballet aesthetics of the time.

"The Prodigal Son" features nontraditional, angular choreography, audacious costume designs, and a narrative that delves into themes of sin and redemption. The stark, almost crude expressions of lust and repentance portrayed by the characters were quite atypical of ballet’s more refined and ethereal presentations. This departure was initially met with mixed reactions; some praised the innovative approach and emotional depth, while others were put off by the overt physicality and modernist style.

Despite any initial controversy, "The Prodigal Son" has since been recognized as one of Balanchine’s most profound narrative ballets and a significant work in the history of dance. It has had a lasting impact by expanding the thematic and stylistic boundaries of ballet. Balanchine's continued exploration in blending classical ballet with modernist themes and techniques has influenced countless choreographers and paved the way for more diverse storytelling within the ballet community.

George Balanchine became famous primarily through his profound influence on ballet, notably as the co-founder and artistic director of the New York City Ballet. His fame emerged from several key aspects:

1. Early Training and Work: Born in Russia in 1904, Balanchine trained at the Imperial Ballet School in St. Petersburg. He began his choreographic career early, creating his first work at age 20. His talent was recognized by impresario Serge Diaghilev, who invited him to join the Ballets Russes in Europe. This was a significant platform where his work began to gain international attention.

2. Innovative Choreography: Balanchine's approach to ballet was revolutionary. He stripped away many of the traditional narratives and elaborate costumes typical of 19th-century ballet, focusing instead on movement. He emphasized speed, flow, and the athleticism of dance, which was a significant shift from the norm and helped redefine ballet aesthetics. His famous adage, "ballet is woman," highlighted the importance of female dancers in his work, often showcasing their strength and grace as central to his choreography.

3. Move to America: In 1933, Balanchine moved to the United States at the invitation of arts patron Lincoln Kirstein, whose dream was to establish a world-class ballet company in America. This partnership led to the creation of the School of American Ballet in 1934, and eventually, the formation of the New York City Ballet in 1948.

4. New York City Ballet: As the artistic director of the New York City Ballet, Balanchine developed a prolific repertoire and nurtured many dancers who would go on to become stars. Under his direction, the company became one of the leading ballet organizations in the world. His works, such as "Serenade," "The Nutcracker," and "Agon," are considered seminal pieces in the ballet canon.

5. Collaborations and Influences: Balanchine collaborated with numerous artists, musicians, and designers, including composer Igor Stravinsky. These collaborations helped cultivate a new landscape of ballet that merged with other arts, expanding its appeal and artistic depth.

6. Legacy and Influence: Balanchine's style and methodology have pervaded ballet schools and companies worldwide, making him a central figure in the transformation of ballet into a modern art form. His disciples and successors have carried forward his techniques and philosophy, ensuring his lasting impact on dance.

Through these multifaceted contributions to dance, George Balanchine not only became famous but also cemented his legacy as a pillar of 20th-century ballet.

George Balanchine first met Igor Stravinsky in 1925 in Paris. At the time, Balanchine was working as a ballet master and choreographer with the Ballets Russes, which was directed by Sergei Diaghilev. Diaghilev played a pivotal role in fostering collaborations between various eminent artists, composers, and choreographers, and he highly valued Stravinsky’s contributions to ballet music.

Their meeting blossomed into a profound artistic collaboration and personal friendship. Stravinsky’s innovative compositions greatly influenced Balanchine, who held a deep respect for Stravinsky's musical genius. This respect and affinity for Stravinsky's work led Balanchine to choreograph numerous ballets to his music, both during his time with the Ballets Russes and later in America with the New York City Ballet. This partnership is celebrated as one of the most important in the history of ballet, profoundly influencing the development of modern ballet.

George Balanchine is not a ballet; he was a choreographer who founded the New York City Ballet and is often regarded as the foremost contemporary choreographer in the world of ballet. Born in Russia in 1904, Balanchine is known for revolutionizing ballet by emphasizing and expanding the roles of male dancers and stripping down the theatricality to focus on pure dance. He created more than 400 works, many of which remain central to the ballet repertoire today.

George Balanchine, often considered the father of American ballet, collaborated with and developed some of the most renowned dancers in the ballet world. Here are some of the most famous dancers who were closely associated with him and his choreography:

1. Maria Tallchief - Perhaps one of Balanchine's most famous muses and his first wife, Maria Tallchief was America's first major prima ballerina, and she was instrumental in popularizing ballet in the United States. She originated many roles in Balanchine's early works with the New York City Ballet.

2. Suzanne Farrell - Renowned for her unique artistic partnership with Balanchine, Farrell inspired some of Balanchine's most memorable choreography from the mid-1960s until his death in 1983. She epitomized his style and was known for her technical precision and ethereal presence.

3. Edward Villella - A leading male dancer, Villella was known for his athleticism and dynamic performance style. He brought a new energy to male ballet roles and was key in popularizing ballet among male dancers in America.

4. Mikhail Baryshnikov - Though Baryshnikov was already a star when he came to the United States, his work with Balanchine at the New York City Ballet further solidified his reputation. His technical prowess and charismatic stage presence made profound impacts on audiences and dancers alike.

5. Gelsey Kirkland - Known for her dramatic expressivity and technical skill, Kirkland was another of Balanchine’s notable dancers during the 1970s. She was involved in some original Balanchine productions and later wrote about her experiences in the ballet world.

6. Patricia McBride - McBride danced with the New York City Ballet for nearly 30 years and was known for her vivacity and charm. Many roles in Balanchine’s ballets were created for her, showcasing her versatility and depth as a performer.

7. Arthur Mitchell - As one of the first African American principals at NYCB, Mitchell broke substantial racial barriers in the world of classical ballet. He was involved in several key Balanchine works and later founded the Dance Theatre of Harlem.

8. Merrill Ashley - Known for her speed, precision, and clarity of technique, Ashley was one of the last major dancers to have been personally groomed by Balanchine. She became synonymous with Balanchine’s neoclassical style.

These dancers are just a few of the artists who were shaped by and helped to shape the legacy of George Balanchine’s choreographic genius. Through these collaborations, Balanchine redefined ballet's aesthetics and techniques, and his impact on these dancers was a crucial part of this transformative period in ballet history.

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