University vs Conservatoires

Is one better than other other?

Strictly speaking there is no way of determining which pathway is better. Every individual has a different goal and so one option will be more suitable for you than the other dependant on what that goal is. They do have many similarities but their differences is what will determine which one a dancer chooses to go to

Similarities

• Both options aim to make you a professional dancer.

• Both offer training and performance opportunities.

• Both a combination of theory and practical

• If you went to a conservatoire, you could do an extra year to do a teaching degree

Differences

• A degree is a set number of years, however a conservatoire course can sometimes be added onto for further experience and education. For example, the degree at the University of Bolton is 3 years long however the Rambert School is a year or more. And so conservatoires may be good for someone who likes flexibility and a degree would likely be of a dancer who likes routine.

• The degree seems more based on jobs and business for example how Bournemouth University describes dance as a ‘big business’ and ‘competitive market.’ And that some skills learnt there will be project management, effective marketing. A conservatoire course however, seems to focus more on a dancer as an individual rather than part of a bigger picture or business. This is supported by 'define your voice' and 'realize your creative ambitions' said by the Northern School of Contemporary Dance as they’re referring directly to that singular person.

• Universities propose to touch upon all knowledge of dance including dance styles and techniques, however conservatoire courses focus more on the needs of the individual and therefore teach more specific courses in order to take that person towards a specific career or in a specific direction. It’s even clear by the course names. A degree in dance is very broad but a conservatoire course in Ballet and Contemporary Dance is a lot more specific.

Where would I go? Why?

I believe studying at a university would be more suitable for me than studying at a conservatoire. I am very interested in teaching and so at university i could take a dance teaching course which would help me directly reach my goal. Not only that but i enjoy dancing all styles and I feel going to a conservatoire, because of the fact that the courses narrow down to individual styles, i wouldn't enjoy the lack of variation.