Whether you have been dancing your whole life, or just took your first dance class, reading the right book can help keep you inspired and motivated. From biographies of your favorite dancers to guides on technique or how to improve your leaps, here are some must-reads for dancers of all ages, levels, and styles.
The Dancer’s Way: The New York City Ballet Guide to Mind, Body, and Nutrition by Linda H. Hamilton
This book was written by a dancer who is now a psychologist. It is perfect for any dancer who is looking to better themselves outside of just dance class. It covers several health topics, including managing stress from being overwhelmed, physical injuries, and how to keep performing at your best.
Choreography: A Basic Approach Using Improvisation by Sandra Cerny Minton
If you are interested in how choreographers do what they do, or maybe you have been wanting to try your hand at choreography, then this is the book for you. Minton provides a tool kit for choreographing dances and tips for dancers who want more creative improvisation.
The Artist’s Compass: The Complete Guide to Building a Life and a Living in the Performing Arts by Rachel S. Moore
Taking that next step in the dance world after high school or college graduation can be scary. It is difficult to know what to do next. The Artist’s Compass is written by the president and CEO of the Music Center located in Los Angeles who is also a former ballerina. She talks about the reality of having a career in the performance world, covering everything from finances to booking jobs and networking.
Bunheads by Sophie Flack
Bunheads follows a young ballet dancer living in New York and the competitive world of dance, specifically ballet. It is a must-read for any dancer who is struggling with the sacrifices and the wins of the dance world.
