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WHERE BALLET BEGINS

From Pre-Ballet to company-ready, San Francisco Ballet School trains the next generation of artists and welcomes dancers of all ages to discover the joy of movement. 

Located in the heart of San Francisco Ballet, the School offers a rare opportunity to learn in a renowned environment rooted in classical technique and powered by creative evolution.

Founded in 1933, San Francisco Ballet School is the oldest professional ballet school in the United States and a distinguished training ground for dancers from all over the world. Led by School Director Grace Holmes and Artistic Director Tamara Rojo, the program has a dual mission: to train classical ballet dancers capable of joining a professional company and to offer all ages and levels the love of dance.

San Francisco Ballet School Student // © Studio Schuller for San Francisco Ballet

Pre-Ballet

Introduce young children to the joy of movement in a structured, nurturing environment. Classes for ages 2–7.

San Francisco Ballet School Student // © Studio Schuller for San Francisco Ballet

SCHOOL YEAR PROGRAM

San Francisco Ballet School trains students ages 8–18 through eight progressive levels, from foundational technique to pre-professional preparation.

San Francisco Ballet School Student // © Studio Schuller for San Francisco Ballet // © Studio Schuller for San Francisco Ballet

Trainee Program

An immersive, selective one- to two-year program designed to prepare dancers for the demands of a professional career.

San Francisco Ballet School Students during summer session at SF Ballet School // © San Francisco Ballet, photo by Lindsey Rallo

Summer Programs

Summer offerings for those discovering dance to advanced students on a professional path.

© San Francisco Ballet

ADULT Classes

Classes for adult dancers of all levels to build strength, flexibility, and artistry.

Building a dream

Designed for both rising professionals and those dancing for the love of it, all are welcome to discover the power of ballet.

San Francisco Ballet School Students // © Studio Schuller for San Francisco Ballet
TRAINING TOMORROW’S PROFESSIONALS

For rising professionals, the School combines rigorous training with a deep investment in each student’s growth, fostering excellence, expression, and confidence. Students benefit from a direct pipeline to one of the world’s premier ballet companies; nearly 70% of San Francisco Ballet dancers received training through the School’s programs. The School’s approach blends classical technique with a flow of movement, preparing dancers to meet the demands of any choreographer, company, or style. It’s a foundation built on tradition, driven by excellence, and ready for what’s next.

Pre-ballet class during San Francisco Ballet School Open House 2023 // © San Francisco Ballet, photo by Lindsey Rallo

SF Ballet School Family Circle

The Family Circle unites meaningful engagement with purposeful philanthropy, providing a deeper connection to San Francisco Ballet School while sustaining the exceptional standards of excellence that set it apart. With bespoke benefits designed to bring families closer to the artistry and community that make SF Ballet School so special, your membership helps support the world-class training and experiences we provide to our students.

Visit our School shop

Explore our collection of thoughtfully designed SF Ballet School branded apparel, accessories, and more. We can’t wait to see what you choose from our storefront!