Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 12/13/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I want to be a professional ballet teacher and I was wondering what the average salary was. I am not doing this for the money, as I don't expect much income from it but I would still like to know what to expect. Would it be enough to live off? Thanks for your advice.

ANSWER: Hi Liz. My experience is only in professional ballet schools, not private dance studios, so I don't really know. In professional schools, teachers do make a modest living wage. Experienced teachers also can paid for examining students, private coaching and things like that.

And it depends on how your local area participates in the arts. Some public schools and community centers run arts programs and bring teachers in for that.

I hope that helps a bit - all the best! Dianne



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi! Sorry to bother you again! I know this is a really dumb question but what is the difference between a professional ballet school and a private dance studio? Thanks again!

Answer
Hi Liz. A professional ballet school is one like the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School or The Royal Ballet School where ballet students study full time, while in academics in the same school. By a private studio I mean one where students come after school hours.

Professional schools are both government and privately funded and offer teachers full salaried time jobs.

I hope I cleared that up sufficiently. All the best, Dianne