Patterson School of Ballet, Inc. Introduce
For residents across Pennsylvania, particularly those in the Erie area, the search for a truly impactful "school" often leads to institutions that specialize in cultivating unique talents and fostering personal growth. In the realm of dance, Patterson School of Ballet, Inc. stands as an exemplary destination. This isn't just a typical academic institution; it's a dedicated ballet school where students of all ages and abilities can discover the beauty and discipline of classical ballet. Under the guidance of renowned instructors like Michael Patterson, the school provides an environment where technical skills flourish, confidence is built, and a lifelong love for dance is ignited. For anyone in the Erie region who has ever dreamed of learning ballet, or for parents seeking focused, nurturing instruction for their children, Patterson School of Ballet offers an unparalleled educational experience.
Patterson School of Ballet was founded in 2014 by Artistic Director Michael Patterson, and since then, it has been a leader in classical ballet training in Erie and throughout the region. The school operates on a philosophy that prioritizes individualized instruction, small class sizes, and a proven, graded-level ballet syllabus. This approach, perfected over the years, ensures that students receive highly focused attention, allowing for significant technical improvement. Michael Patterson himself is celebrated for his incredible patience, clear instructions, and deeply kind demeanor, which helps to build up every dancer in his studio. The school's long-term approach means they are dedicated to making ballet a way of life that enriches students' lives, helping them aspire to achieve more and potentially become part of the coveted world of professional ballet. Students from Patterson School of Ballet have even been accepted into leading training curriculums globally, including the elite School of American Ballet (SAB), the American Ballet Theatre Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School, and the Royal Ballet School in London, UK.
Patterson School of Ballet, Inc. is conveniently located at 2727 W 21st St, Erie, PA 16506, USA. This address places the ballet school in a well-established and accessible part of Erie, making it a convenient destination for families and individuals throughout the city and surrounding areas within Western Pennsylvania. West 21st Street is a recognizable thoroughfare, ensuring that the studio is easy to find. The school recently moved to this new, permanent home, a process that concluded in January 2023, showcasing their commitment to providing a dedicated and optimal learning environment for their students. For those traveling by car, parking is generally available in the vicinity. Its placement within the local community ensures it's a practical and straightforward commute for many residents seeking quality dance education, reinforcing its role as a key local institution for the arts.
Patterson School of Ballet, Inc. provides comprehensive ballet training and related dance instruction designed to accommodate various ages, skill levels, and aspirations. Their curriculum is structured to ensure technical proficiency and artistic development.
- Classical Ballet Training: The core of their offering, utilizing a proven, graded-level ballet syllabus perfected by Artistic Director Michael Patterson. This structured approach focuses on slow repetition and quality over quantity to build strong foundational technique.
- Classes for All Experience Levels and Ages: Welcomes students from ages 3 and up, including complete beginners and more experienced dancers. They offer free trial/placement classes to help determine the best fit for each student.
- Adult Ballet Classes: Specifically caters to adults interested in learning dance, even those with no prior experience. Instructors like Michael Patterson are praised for their patience and clear instructions, making it easy for beginners to feel comfortable and engaged.
- Small Class Sizes: A significant advantage highlighted by parents, ensuring very focused and individualized instruction, allowing teachers to provide more personal attention to each dancer.
- Private Lessons: Available for dancers aged 7 and older of all skill levels, regardless of prior training. Private lessons offer one-on-one attention to refine skills, get a head start, or learn new styles in 30-minute increments. Styles include tap, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, and tumbling in addition to ballet.
- Summer Intensive Programs: Offers programs like the 5-Week Summer Intensive and 2-Week August Intensive, providing superior technical training along with the development of strength, flexibility, and artistry for students aged 5 and up. Coursework can include Ballet Technique, Character, Stretch Class, Pilates, and Pointe and Variations for qualified students.
- "Super Hero Half Day Camp": A program designed for boys and girls aged 3-6, consisting of a structured day with creative dance, stories, and songs, led by Artistic Director Michael Patterson.
- Focus on Long-Term Development: The school emphasizes a long-term approach to ballet education, aiming to make ballet a "way of life" that enriches students' lives and opens doors to professional opportunities rather than solely focusing on annual performances.
Patterson School of Ballet, Inc. is distinguished by several key features and highlights that contribute to its exceptional reputation and the success of its students.
- Michael Patterson's Expert Instruction: Artistic Director Michael Patterson is consistently lauded as an "excellent" and "incredible" instructor, known for his patience, clear instructions, kindness, and ability to build confidence in every dancer.
- Individualized Attention: The commitment to small class sizes ensures that each student receives highly focused instruction and personalized feedback, crucial for significant technical improvement.
- Nurturing and Supportive Environment: The studio fosters a warm and welcoming atmosphere where dancers feel comfortable, never out of place, and genuinely supported as individuals. This compassionate approach extends beyond the dance technique.
- Proven Graded-Level Ballet Syllabus: Utilizes a meticulously developed curriculum that sets students up for success and allows them to aspire to higher levels of dance, including pre-professional training.
- Success in Prestigious Programs: Students have been accepted into highly competitive and elite dance schools worldwide, including the School of American Ballet, American Ballet Theatre Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School, and the Royal Ballet School, demonstrating the quality of training.
- Inclusivity for Beginners (Adults and Children): The welcoming nature for complete beginners, especially adults, removes the intimidation factor, making ballet accessible to a wider audience.
- Holistic Development: The school aims to enrich lives and build confidence, emphasizing that ballet is a discipline that extends beyond the physical, positively influencing students as individuals.
For more information about classes, scheduling a free trial/placement class, or any other inquiries, you can contact Patterson School of Ballet, Inc. using the details below:
Address: 2727 W 21st St, Erie, PA 16506, USA
Phone: (215) 806-1229
Mobile Phone: +1 215-806-1229
Email: info@PattersonSchoolofBallet.com
For families and individuals across Pennsylvania, particularly those in the Erie region, Patterson School of Ballet, Inc. is an outstanding "school" that perfectly meets the needs and aspirations of local residents seeking high-quality dance education. Its suitability for locals stems from its unique blend of professional training, personalized attention, and a deeply supportive community atmosphere.
Firstly, the convenient location on W 21st St in Erie makes it easily accessible for families throughout the city and surrounding areas, ensuring that top-tier ballet instruction is within reach for their children and for adults looking to learn. The recent move to a permanent home further signifies the school's commitment to providing a dedicated and stable environment for its students.
What truly sets Patterson School of Ballet apart for locals is its emphasis on small class sizes and individualized instruction. As highlighted by parents, this allows for incredibly focused guidance, ensuring that each dancer's technique improves significantly. Michael Patterson's reputation as a kind, patient, and clear instructor makes the learning process enjoyable and accessible, even for those who are complete beginners and may have felt nervous about starting dance. This nurturing environment builds confidence, which extends far beyond the dance studio.
The school's proven graded-level ballet syllabus and its long-term approach to student development mean that it is preparing dancers for real success, whether they aspire to a professional career or simply wish to embrace ballet as a lifelong enriching discipline. The track record of students gaining acceptance into elite international ballet schools speaks volumes about the quality of training provided right here in Erie. For any local seeking not just dance lessons, but a comprehensive artistic education that fosters personal growth, discipline, and a genuine love for ballet in a supportive community, Patterson School of Ballet, Inc. is an unparalleled choice.
Patterson School of Ballet, Inc. Photos










Patterson School of Ballet, Inc. Location
Patterson School of Ballet, Inc.
2727 W 21st St, Erie, PA 16506, USA
Patterson School of Ballet, Inc. Reviews
Michael Patterson is an excellent instructor. He has helped my daughter’s technic improve so much. The class sizes are small, which we love as it allows our daughter to get very focused instruction. Most importantly, he is so kind and builds up every dancer in his studio. We couldn’t ask for a better teacher and influence for our daughter.
Oct 15, 2024 · Michelle HarringtonI don't know anything about dance, but I decided to take some adult classes for fun. Michael is an incredible teacher. He's SO patient, and his instructions are clear and easy to follow. I never felt out of place, even as a complete beginner. If you always wanted to learn dance but were nervous about getting started, go to Patterson School of Ballet!
Nov 03, 2023 · Sei PaulsonOur daughter is in her 2nd year of ballet. "Mr. Michael" 😁 is really wonderful with the little kids. She pays better attention to him than she does to her own parents sometimes! 🤣 We couldn't be happier with (or more impressed by) the work he does with these kids. There are many other classes available for all ages. Highly recommend.
Nov 11, 2023 · Spyvee McSpyvoI went here over the summer and it’s very welcoming and friendly environment. Wonderful teacher and students, I feel confident as a dancer thanks to Mr. Micheal!
Jan 07, 2025 · Arehlyn PattisonHighly recommend! My daughter has had the best experience of her dance career at The Patterson School of Ballet. If you have a dancer who wants to excel this is the place!!
Jun 08, 2021 · Melissa Glova
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