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Programs

Open Classes	Classes for Non-Professional Dancers	Teens@Graham
Professional Training Program	Third-Year Post-Certification Program	For New York Area Schools
Intensive Programs Descriptions	Registration Forms
Independent Program	International Students

Independent Program

The Independent Program (IP) is for students at all levels who wish to engage in a rigorous course of study in Martha Graham Technique. The program is designed for students wishing to pursue personal and professional goals. Students are encouraged to participate in all the activities of the Martha Graham School, such as student showings, and panel discussions and are given access to other resources of the School, including its archival library and video collections. Students are accepted into the Independent Program on the basis of teacher recommendation, personal essay and/or demonstration of commitment.

Study in the Independent Program requires a minimum commitment of one full semester, but students may remain in the program for as long as two years.

Generally international students enroll in the Independent Program first, before auditioning for the Professional Training Program. International students should consult the special guidelines for international students.

Enrollment is by semester. Each semester lasts approximately 20 weeks. The Fall semester begins in September and includes technique classes in the Winter Intensive. The Spring semester begins in February and ends in late June. The Summer Intensive runs from early July through mid August. Participation in the Summer Intensive is optional for students in the Independent Program. Students enter the Program at the beginning of either the Fall or Spring semester and are placed in technique classes appropriate to their skills.

Independent Students enroll full-time. There are no excused absences other than for reasons of health and family emergency. Classes missed for such reasons must be made up within the semester. Students are required to take a minimum of 8 technique classes per week; however, 10 classes per week are strongly encouraged. In addition to technique classes, students may opt to take workshops in Repertory, Composition, Music, and other offered electives. These workshops are offered at different times through the year, and require the payment of an additional fee.

Attendance reports are placed in each student's file and are available to students. Failure to maintain satisfactory attendance may result in Probation and/or Dismissal.

Evaluations are ongoing. Retention in the Independent Program indicates progress in technical skills, concentration, commitment, attitude, creativity and general understanding. Students may also be dismissed for unexcused absences or for behavior inconsistent with School standards.

How to Apply

International students should submit application materials at least four months before the beginning of the Program. Please make sure to include all the documents listed below:

Independent Program application form
Letter of professional recommendation. This is a letter from a person who knows you on a professional level. It should be somebody with whom you have worked or studied who can confirm that you are serious about studying at the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance.
Short personal essay that describes why you are interested in studying the Martha Graham Technique
Medical Record form
2 passport photographs

Send or fax your application to:

Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance
316 East 63rd Street
New York, NY 10065
U.S.A.
Fax: 212.838.0339

When all of the required information is completed, your application will be processed, and you will be notified about the decision on your application. Information on how to proceed further will then be provided.

Rates

Technique	Repertory	Composition	Music	Electives	Dance History
$2200	$330	$330 (Winter) $660 (Summer)	$330	See Note†	$330

†Note: Fees for other electives are determined individually.