“Every day, I realize more and more just how lucky I am to be able to call myself a graduate of the Akhmedova Ballet Academy. ABA is not only unique because of its semi-private class structure that provides each student with personal technical and artistic development, but also because of its warm and nurturing environment, neither of which would be possible without Madame Akhmedova‘s constant hard work and dedication to each of her students. Madame Akhmedova‘s tutelage goes above and beyond producing strong and successful dancers; producing artists that are empowered with the knowledge that by being hard-working and respectful, as well as a good person, it is possible to achieve all of your goals. Mme. Akhmedova has been and continues to be the most wonderful and supportive mentor and teacher I could have ever asked for, and I am forever thankful. Everything Madame Akhmedova and my time at ABA taught me allowed me to embark on my professional career and I know I could not be where I am today without her.”
— Deanna Pearson – Boston Ballet, MA
“I was with ABA for four years and just recently graduated as a part of the Class of 2021. I cannot express how valuable an experience it was for me to grow as a dancer under Madame Akhmedova’s tutelage. I had previously danced at several other studios during my dance education, but it was when I arrived at ABA that I finally felt like I had found my home. From the very beginning, Madame Akhmedova saw the potential in me and did everything she could to foster my growth. She helped me correct mistakes and poor habits that I had formed in the past and provided me with numerous opportunities that challenged me as an artist and helped me improve. Madame’s experience as a professional dancer and the vast amount of knowledge she has garnered from her many years of teaching make the corrections and insight she gives invaluable. She knows exactly what needs to be done in order to be successful in the dance industry and devotes her life to helping each and every one of her students achieve their personal goals. Not only this, but Madame Akhmedova has created a learning environment that feels like family, rather than a collection of dancers. I made many close friends during my time at ABA and was able to learn something from each of them. We motivated each other to work hard and supported each other during long rehearsals and stressful times. I looked forward to going to dance every day because I knew I was getting the best training and developing as a dancer, and because I was excited to laugh with all of my best friends.”
— Isabelle Wu – ABA graduate 2021
“Thank you for inviting Logan to teach class while he was up in Silver Spring on his break between performance seasons. He definitely does not forget his roots. He’s very grateful for the excellent training and mentoring he received from you, and he has said to me on many occasions that he knows he wouldn’t have such a perfect job right now with Richmond Ballet if you hadn’t taken him under your wing. I’ve always been so impressed that you gave, and continue to give, such individualized attention to every student and really seem to care deeply about the success of each one, professionally and personally. So we’re all very grateful to you and want to continue supporting you in any way we are able.”
