Testimonials
"My journey with Aaron Jackson and The Jackson Method has been one of enriching transformation, self-discovery, and growth. Aaron’s distinctive and unambiguous approach to teaching ballet technique not only provides an avenue for learning, but also serves as a gateway for unlocking the full potential of us all, because of the deeply encouraging and nurturing environment he creates. Aaron’s unwavering passion and dedication to this art form is inspiring. He is a teacher who is truly invested in my personal development and the development of all of his students, and has a genuine interest in seeing us fully live and thrive in our dancing. He knows each student by name, celebrates our successes, embraces our potential, and motivates us to face our challenges without fear. He knows exactly what to say to help us move forward. I am forever grateful to have found my way to his classes. He has had a profound impact on me as a dancer and teacher, and I eagerly anticipate furthering my development under his expert guidance, instruction, and coaching.
Thank you, Aaron."
― Raina Lucas, October 2025
"Over 10 years ago, I wandered into Aaron Jackson’s class curious to see if it called me back to my study of ballet. As an older student, I was not sure I was up for the challenges I had welcomed as a younger dancer. I knew from the first exercises at the barre that I had found something very special and unique. Aaron truly teaches his classes, instead of just setting a series of exercises for students to execute. His classes are full of a great love of and respect for the art of ballet. While his classes emphasize proper technique, they also stress the importance of artistry, musicality, and the flow of movement. In his classes, I feel that I dance, rather than just execute steps. The atmosphere in Aaron’s classes is always positive and supportive, and he encourages all his students to explore their artistic expression and to challenge themselves. I feel very fortunate that I have had the opportunity to study with such a wonderful artist and inspiring teacher."
― Eleanor Young, October 2025
“My ballet dreams are coming true.” This was my reply to my husband recently when he asked about ballet class. My ballet dreams ARE coming true thanks to Aaron Jackson and The Jackson Method For Adult Ballet. My personal journey with ballet began when I was 44 but only for about a year. I started anew at age 55 and I sought out a class with Aaron. As I stepped back into the studio I instantly felt a wave of gratitude and happiness to once again be in class with Aaron. Aaron’s true love of ballet and his love of teaching the art of ballet are an inspiration. His sincere love of learning and investment in each student is unmatched. The more I learn about ballet the more I see how deeply he cares. Aaron gives all students the proper atmosphere to learn because he expects the best from himself and from each student. That level of respect and honesty allows each student to progress and see their full potential. I am excited and energized with every single class I take with Aaron. There are no limits to learning ballet when Aaron Jackson is your teacher!"
― Claire Munter, October 2025
"I arrived at Aaron’s class with a lifelong passion for ballet, but an equally long-lasting sense of insecurity about my dancing. As soon as I finished the barre of my first class with Aaron, I knew I had found an exceptional teacher I wished I had met before. At 30, with a full-time job and hyper-aware of my limitations, Aaron made me feel I could continue to grow as a dancer. His intense and rigorous classes have helped me build strength, stability and stamina; polish my technique; and improve my capacity to learn choreography. His detailed individual and group corrections are a constant reminder of how demanding he is, yet he always comes across as encouraging and supportive. His teaching philosophy has helped me to better understand and welcome where I am in my ballet journey and how to dance safely. Most of all, Aaron’s acknowledgment and respect have helped me build my confidence and artistry. I no longer shy away in the back of the classroom, but allow myself to take up space and enjoy my dancing (which I’m doing more of)! "
― Tatiana Broff, October 2025
"One snowy Thursday morning about five years ago, I blissfully and unknowingly walked into Aaron's class on a whim. I had no idea what to expect, but immediately, I could tell this class would be different from any other I'd taken as an adult. Aaron's energy filled up the room - warm, inspiring, but also demanding in the best way. From the first exercise, I was hooked, as he provided corrections, knowledge, and encouragement throughout, giving us the tools to be our best selves. I continue to train with Aaron and love that he gives his students both the space to find each of our paths in ballet, and also the needed guidance and expertise to grow and improve in our practice. His consistency, focus, generosity and knowledge is unparalleled and he has an innate ability to know what his students need each class. Even throughout COVID, Aaron continued to push his students in the best, safest ways possible. Since beginning my journey with Aaron, I have not only gained strength, skill and trained at a higher level than I thought possible, but my confidence and performance quality is flourishing. Aaron's classes provide the technique and foundation that enables me and all his students to find their own artistry and excellence. A teacher, a coach, an inspirational human. Aaron is truly a gift to us all."
― Lori D'Orazio, October 2025
"I moved to Washington DC 13 years ago from the LA area and struggled to find the motivation or drive to take ballet on a regular basis, despite taking classes for a variety of other disciplines. When I discovered Aaron’s class in early 2023, it reinvigorated my love for ballet. And ever since then - if I’m in town, I’m in class. Aaron has a great way of seeing and acknowledging his students and praising good work, while still pushing his students to be the best dancers they can be. I appreciate the attention he gives students to make individual corrections, which isn’t always an aspect of teaching you find in adult ballet classes. Aaron has a unique way of approaching technique, style, musicality, and artistry and I’ve truly never taken a ballet class before quite like his. I find so much emotional and artistic fulfillment from Aaron’s classes, and look forward to continuing my training with him for many more years."
― Victoria Yue, October 2025
"For the past fourteen years it has been my pleasure to be a student of Aaron Jackson. His instruction is clear and challenging, uplifting and artistic. Aaron takes the time to assess a student’s ability, and encourage personal progress. A variety of student’s, regardless of age or ability, know to “show up for class” - and they certainly do! Join the spectrum, challenge yourself, come to Aaron’s class."
― Leanne Boland, October 2025
"Aaron Jackson is a gifted professional dance instructor.What separates him from the rest is his companion, creativity, and strategic focus. He has a plan for his classes, and works with the dancers to achieve it. It is a wonderful way to learn and master difficult techniques. It becomes a joy to dance and grow more nimbler."
― Bette Alberts, October 2025
"Aaron is a gifted artist, dancer, and teacher who blends these strengths into a singularly inspiring class experience. His classes are rigorous, challenging, and deeply rewarding — each one pushes me beyond what I thought possible, both technically and artistically. Aaron’s meticulous attention to detail, combined with his rare ability to tailor complex material to individual dancers, creates an environment where hard work feels energizing and joyful. Even in virtual settings, his sharp eye and thoughtful corrections keep every class engaging. There’s a certain magic to the way Aaron teaches — an atmosphere of creativity, focus, and deep respect for the art form that makes each class feel like more than just technique. He invites us into the poetry of ballet, and somehow manages to make that poetry personal for every student. I feel fortunate to be part of such a dynamic, demanding, and meaningful approach to dance."
― Elizabeth LaMotte, October 2025
“I had always been interested in the connection between drawing and dance, the way in which dancers/choreographers create lines in space using the body as an integral component in creating art. Retirement gave me an opportunity to explore in a more direct manner the basic vocabulary of that expression. I was extremely fortunate to find Aaron’s class. He has a gift for teaching and his classes draw a wonderful mix of students from various age groups, ranging from the relative beginner to those with professional experience. He teaching method is highly structured and there is a strong continuity from one class to the next. He constantly provides specific images to help visualize the dynamics of a particular movement. His individualized corrections and encouragements allow for concrete improvement within the framework of one’s own abilities As someone with a very limited knowledge of dance vocabulary, that rigor was important for me. But beyond his teaching of technique, it was his ability to instill a joy for the music itself (facilitated by the master pianists who accompany his class) that made my learning experience with Aaron so meaningful. He challenges the dancer to find the musicality in the steps and the sequences, to understand the line as it relates to the music, and to strive to mirror the music in the line, no matter how imperfect the technique and the physical limitations imposed by age. What I thought would be a brief exploration of dance’s classical vocabulary has become, through Aaron, a discovery of the music of dance as an integral part of everyday life.”
― Maria Leyva, April 2024
"I first took Aaron’s class when I was in my second semester of my freshman year at American University. After being rejected from my first choice college and their dance program, I landed at American University and somewhat gave up on ever reaching an advanced level of ballet or even dancing professionally, especially as a late bloomer to ballet. I walked in thinking I was just going to take another average open class - and from that moment on, my entire life in ballet changed forever. I became a regular to Aaron’s classes for his attention and dedication to every committed student, no matter where they were on their journey. My technique improved tremendously in a short amount of time, and continues to do so today with regular attendance to his classes. Aaron’s class progresses in what I think is the smartest way possible, building up the dancer slowly to excel in all the advanced steps on his curriculum by the end of class. Aaron is tough but provides a supportive and uplifting environment, building your confidence as well as your technique. Today, I dance for a small non-professional company, attended many prestigious summer intensives, and am on track to join a professional company upon graduation. Without Aaron, I would not have made these technical strides or have the self-confidence that I have now. I would highly recommend Aaron and his classes to any professional, pre-professional, or non-professional dancer."
― Ava Agostinelli, June 2024
"I started working with Aaron Jackson when I joined The Washington Ballet in 2016. Having been a student at The School of American Ballet previously, Aaron and I share a similar vision of what ballet is; music comes first, strength is important, and precision is imperative. Taking Aaron’s classes throughout my career has had an immense impact on my dancing and kept me motivated in times of uncertainty. Aaron provides a safe space for dancers of all levels to reach their fullest potential if they want it. I have had the privilege of working with Aaron for almost a decade now, and my gratitude for his dedication and personal attention to detail only grows as I reap the benefits he’s provided me. Aaron’s classes are designed for progress overtime; as each class passes and we get stronger in our dancing, a sense of camaraderie develops amongst his students. Not only do we become better dancers, but we become part of something bigger than ourselves. We become a community of passionate dancers who love to work hard and strive to be better every day. I am forever grateful for Aaron, and for his insightful devotion to the art of ballet."
― Lucy Nevin, June 2024
"I moved to Washington, DC to attend college, unsure of whether I would be able to continue dancing at the high level that I was used to. Ballet had always been such a large part of my life, and by starting college, I was afraid that I might lose it. But, as soon as I stepped into Aaron’s class, I knew that I had found my place. Aaron Jackson brings an unmatched energy to class and has fostered a community of dancers committed to improving their art. His classes also helped me regain a love for ballet that I had lost from the stress of serious training. He offers tailored corrections to each of his dancers, provides challenging and engaging combinations and builds a welcoming atmosphere where people come to learn. His class has become part of my weekly routine and is something that truly brightens my Saturday mornings. Through his coaching, I have seen myself continue to grow as a dancer, which is something that I am incredibly grateful for."
― Ashton Walter, June 2024
"Aaron Jackson is a one of a kind human being, friend, and a ballet master. His dedication to the art of ballet and the impeccable energy he brings to his classes are unprecedented. When I enter the studio at the Washington Ballet, where he teaches, I feel at home. This feeling is cultivated by knowing that I will receive the gifts of his attention, never-ending energy, and thoughtful approach to movement. Aaron has a very structured and disciplined teaching style. The structure of his movement allows for building strength, artistry, and a solid ballet technique. His barre warm-up helps me focus and develop not only proper technique, but also the ability to look inward and forget about the outside world. This, to me, creates a sanctuary space, much like one would feel at home. Aaron is able to focus on everyone’s personal journey in the art of ballet and provide feedback and constructive advice. He teaches people of all levels and ages. He is always attentive and provides helpful corrections to everyone in class. He emphasizes technique and injury prevention. He encourages breath, creation, freedom of movement. Aaron never sits down. His seemingly endless energy and the enthusiasm he exudes when teaching is contagious. Even on days when I feel down, or tired, or I am simply having a bad ballet day, he lifts me up and makes me smile. He gets me moving physically and emotionally. I am so grateful to have that experience with him. In Aaron Jackson I found a friend, a wonderful human being, and an inspiring artist.Aaron’s classes make me feel free. I feel that freedom in movement comes from a stable technique. Strong technique allows for a dancer to lose control whenever he or she chooses to and just be, live in the moment of movement, and create. Arron’s classes are just that – creation built on strong technique and artistry. Freedom. Thank you, Aaron Jackson for sharing your art with the world and with me! Your gift means more that you will ever know! "
― Venelina Stephens, October 2018
“I had a chance to visit Washington, DC and take Aaron's classes again！ I had a great time with him and dancers in his class. Aaron always makes me feel free and pure. And he encourages me, so I can dance in a relaxed way and enjoy dancing , which is my big happiness. Every time after I am in his classes , I love ballet more and more than before. I learned a lot from him. I' m so happy to meet Aaron in my ballet life. I' m missing everything at Washington ballet. I' m looking foward to be in Aaron ' s class again.
― Chieko Suehiro, October 2015
"I met Aaron Jackson in December 2014. At first it was quite difficult to follow his instructions, because the Balanchine method was completely new for me. In that time I was very afraid to open up and to try out new things. Mr. Jackson has offered me private lessons for the summer, because he saw potential in me. His words have given me so much joy and courage, because they provided me with new motivation to continue with ballet. The private lessons in the summer have helped me to come out of me and to be open to new ideas. When I told him that I was already seventeen years old, he was surprised at first, but he believed in me and the fact that I can make it as a dancer. Mr. Jackson offered me to go to Washington for my ballet training. I am now already two months in the US and I love it. I had ups and downs but Mr. Jackson has always reminded me that I'm here for a reason and that I am not alone. He challenges me and I achieve things of which I had only dreamed about two months ago.”
― Camilla Quintana Gallardo, November 2015
“I rediscovered my own journey the minute I stepped into Aaron Jackson’s class. What an absolutely amazing experience that made me instantly fall in love with classical ballet again and again. His approach is far more than just a dance lesson, it is truly a life lesson. Every class is inspiring and not only because of his grace and meticulous teaching style but also because of his famous quotes that leave you thinking when you step out. His energy, enthusiasm, discipline and passion are all packaged together to enlightens you long after the class have culminated to its end. Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted” (Albert Einstein)… Well, Aaron has that little extra that makes him an extraordinary teacher. I am grateful that our paths have crossed and honored to know such a unique, kind and beautiful soul."
― Micky Farivar March 2016
“Aaron Jackson is a gifted ballet teacher and an inspiring person. His classes reflect his sincere desire to share his love of and immense talent in classical ballet. Aaron is eager to see his students develop as dancers, treating each student as an individual. As he likes to say, "everyone is on their own personal journey." His corrections reflect that philosophy and he celebrates each student's progress. Aaron's classes are challenging and structured yet infused with joy & humor. Whether a more beginner student or a lifetime dancer returning to regular class, one cannot help but leave the studio inspired, motivated and looking forward to the next class. Aaron prefers commitment. Students who make the commitment to 'show up' regularly are rewarded with real progress in their dance over the course of weeks, months and years as Aaron structures his class syllabus to deliberately build week to week. Come to Aaron's class for a reason (for fitness, to get back to dance, to try something new), stay for a season and it may turn into a lifetime love.”
― Ginny Wydler, October 2015
“Aaron Jackson is a gifted teacher, who never for a moment “phones it in” but is always fully present and inspirational with each and every one of his students! His classes are always focused on classical ballet philosophy and techniques and they are never easy. Aaron has the remarkable ability to challenge all of his students, whether they are advanced ballet dancers or beginners like me! He learns everyone’s names on first meeting and manages to give individual instruction even when his classes are packed. Although I started training with Aaron as a middle-aged adult with no ballet training beyond a year of instruction as a child in rural Vermont, I have been amazed by the progress I’ve made in 2 ½ years. I enjoy watching the remarkable progress of all of the dancers in Aaron’s classes, from beginners to the most advanced. He creates a safe and inspirational learning environment for all of us."
― Melanie Choukas-Bradley, October 2015
Article in the Washingtonian from October 2013