In 1961, Nancy Lassalle was given permission to photograph a two-day teachers seminar led by George Balanchine (1904-83) at the School of American Ballet. The workshop, funded by the Ford Foundation, was intended to elevate the level of ballet education across the United States by offering the highest standard of training to future dancers. Teachers came from around the country to learn directly from Balanchine. The 14 photographs show Mr. Balanchine demonstrating various ballet positions, doing pliés, making slight adjustments on students, at once articulating his command of the art as well as his generous desire to share that knowledge. They offer a rare glimpse behind the scenes of a pivotal moment in the history of American dance when ballet's greatest choreographer is deeply engaged with his most fundamental calling: teaching dancers to dance.

In 1961, Nancy Lassalle, long-time ballet patron and associate of Lincoln Kirstein, co-founder of the New York City Ballet, was given permission to photograph a two-day teacher seminar led by George Balanchine at the School of American Ballet in New York City. The nonprofit workshop was intended to elevate the level of ballet education across the United States by inviting teachers from around the country to learn directly from the master of dance. Published for the first time in this slender but exquisitely designed and printed softcover catalog are 14 of Lassalles duotone photographs capturing Balanchine demonstrating various ballet positions, his command of the art and his desire to share that knowledge. The intimate images offer a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse of a pivotal moment in the history of American dance. Comments under each image along with a detailed essay by Suki Schorer reveal her deep knowledge of Balanchines teaching and working years.