Chicago National Association of Dance Masters (CNADM)

06/15/2026

REGISTER TODAY and SAVE!
https://www.cnadm.com/summer-workshop

06/11/2026

✨2026 CNADM Lifetime Achievement Recipient✨

A celebrated leader, educator, and ambassador for dance, Nan Giordano has dedicated more than four decades to advancing the art form while inspiring generations of dancers and teachers worldwide. Trained by her father and mentor, Gus Giordano, Nan has carried forward the Giordano legacy through her exceptional teaching, leadership, and commitment to dance education.

Nan’s relationship with CNADM spans many years. Her passion for excellence and dedication to nurturing young artists has left a lasting impression on our organization and the dance community at large.

CNADM is honored to add our Lifetime Achievement Award to the many accolades recognizing Nan’s extraordinary contributions to dance. We look forward to celebrating her remarkable career and legacy at the Awards Banquet on Thursday, July 23.

Intensive Week attendees receive a complimentary banquet ticket with paid registration. Extra tickets are available for purchase by calling 815-397-6282 or email [email protected].

05/20/2026

CNADM mourns the loss of Judy Rice, a beloved member of the dance community, treasured mentor, and CNADM favorite. Judy’s passion for dance, joyful spirit, and extraordinary gift for teaching touched generations of dancers and teachers alike. Her impact on our organization and the dance world will never be forgotten.

CNADM President Linda McDonald shared, “Such a loss of an amazing woman and teacher. She influenced so many and was such a sweet and caring person. She will be greatly missed.”

We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, students, and all who had the privilege of learning from and loving her. 💙

Obituary: https://www.niefuneralhomes.com/memorials/judith-rice/5713195/

04/22/2026

📣 CNADM Members: Your next complimentary seminar of 2026 is Friday! Check your email for access link.

Dance Teachers: If you are interested in becoming a member of CNADM and receiving considerable discounts on our workshops (and perks such as this), email/message us!
www.CNADM.com

04/21/2026

TEACHERS: Our summer Training School offers teachers curriculum-building classes for all levels in multiple genres. Check out this year's schedule and don't miss your opportunity to train with some of the best educators in their field!

04/17/2026

We are excited to have Deborah Engerman: Ballet Teacher, Coach, Choreographer presenting classes for our Teacher Training School this summer. July 20-24 in Chicago/Schaumburg!

Teachers: If you are looking for summer training, don’t miss this exceptional pedagogical workshop covering multiple genres in an intimate setting!
Registration opens May 1

Teach Backwards!

I plan my classes by starting with what I want my students to do at the end of class–or at least in the center and across the floor. Petit allegro, grand allegro, a big waltz, etc. Then I develop barre work to support what I have planned for later in the class. Barre always includes fundamental technical work, but it's laced together with exercises that aid and inform specific center work for that day or that week. I believe that many teachers work this way.

Photo: Scott Serio
Dancer: Magnolia Williams