Akhmedova Ballet Academy provides outstanding ballet training through its rigorous Vaganova-method instruction and small, elite class sizes. My daughter has been a student of ABA for almost 10 years, and we are fortunate to call ABA our family.

ABA students receive comprehensive dance education that extends beyond classical ballet technique to include contemporary and character dance, helping develop versatility, artistry, musicality, and stage presence. Training is further enhanced through strength and conditioning, Pilates, flexibility and stretch classes, as well as injury prevention practices that support the physical demands of dance. Students also learn healthy approaches to pain management, recovery, and body awareness, equipping them with the tools needed to train safely while pursuing excellence. Additionally, students learn about ballet history and cultural traditions of other countries.

Throughout the year, students gain valuable performance experience at events including Arts Parade, Thanksgiving Parade, Around the World Bazaar, MLK Day Performance at Strathmore Arts Center, and various performances at Montgomery County’s Senior Centers, as well as Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center. ABA dancers also participate in studio showcases such as Meet the Dancers, the Black Box Theater Performances, and the annual Spring Show. In addition, students have the opportunity to compete on national and international stages. ABA combines artistic excellence, comprehensive training, performance opportunities, and a warm family atmosphere that helps every dancer thrive.

Valeria Paskhal

Our daughter started at ABA at 8 years old (now 10). She absolutely loves it and looks forward to each class. She has made some great friends and looks up to the older, more experienced, girls. The instructors are excellent - they're warm and caring and make the girls feel welcomes. We're amazed by the public performances that the school puts on in December and June. Look forward to the years ahead!

Dimitriy Vilenskiy

Akhmedova Ballet Academy has been an extraordinary part of our daughter’s life for the past seven years since she joined ABA at the age of nine. The level of training is truly remarkable: every class is taught with precision, discipline, and attention to detail. Students are not only taught technique—they are challenged to think, interpret, and perform as artists. The teachers maintain high standards while providing individualized guidance that helps each dancer continue to improve and reach their full potential.

ABA also provides an impressive range of performance and competition opportunities. Students perform in beautifully produced Nutcracker and spring shows, participate in community outreach events, appear in local cultural celebrations, and compete at prestigious competitions at the regional, national, and international level.

One of the things we appreciate most about ABA is the dedication of its faculty. They invest tremendous time and energy in their students, offering encouragement, honest feedback, and mentorship both inside and outside the studio. Especially during competition season, the teachers work tirelessly—not only training each dancer, but also designing and preparing costumes, coordinating travel logistics, and spending countless hours backstage supporting every student. Mme. Akhmedova and all of the ABA teachers are true artists. Their passion for ballet and commitment to their students extend far beyond developing strong dancers; they help build confidence, resilience, professionalism, and a strong work ethic that students carry with them throughout their lives.

The atmosphere at ABA is supportive, respectful, and focused. Students learn the value of discipline, accountability, and perseverance while forming lasting friendships with peers who share their passion.

ABA is certainly not the easiest path, nor is it intended to be. It is a school for students who are serious about ballet training and willing to embrace the dedication and discipline that artistic excellence requires.

We are incredibly grateful for the training, mentorship, and opportunities our daughter has received at Akhmedova Ballet Academy. It has been a transformative journey, and we feel fortunate to be part of such a special community.

Daisy Xu Qiong

ABA was the light at the end of the tunnel for our family.  After years of bouncing around between both ineffective and border-line-abusive ballet studios, we were fortunate enough to discover ABA.  And we are so happy that we did.  In one short year, we have seen our daughter flourish and make leaps and bounds of progress.  She feels protected, encouraged, challenged, and driven.  The studio itself is a warm and welcoming place, under Madame's expert directorship and Jessica's approachable expertise and talent.  

Alexandra Weber

ABA is a truly rare find in our area and I am grateful we have found it! From the moment my daughter walked to the audition, through the summer intensive, and this entire past year -- she couldn't be happier and her growth as a dancer was remarkable.  The levels of professionalism and individual instruction at the studio are unmatched, and the instructors' support, care, and encouragement for students to reach their full potential shows in every class. For people who are looking for a studio that develops real technique, artistry, and discipline, while providing a supportive environment from day one -- I cannot recommend ABA enough!

L.L.