Email from a mother

“Hi there! I just wanted to let you know that Madi (Bear) just got a contract with City Ballet of San Diego! I know how instrumental you were in making her the dancer she is today. Her work ethic and love of the art come from you. Thank you for helping her reach her dream!

All my very best,
Mariah Cohen”

Essay by a student

“Deborah Vinton has been my ballet teacher for the past thirteen years, and over this time, she has become a primary influence in my life. Ms. Vinton is one of fourteen in North America who holds a Maestro Cecchetti diploma, the Cecchetti Society’s highest honor. Ms. Vinton is very humble about her past and just by talking with her, one would never know that she has such an established background in the world of dance. It has been an extreme honor to have had her as my instructor. She has demonstrated how attention to detail and hard work are beneficial in the long run. The meticulous corrections that she gives to my classmates and I make a significant difference in our performance. She has guided and encouraged me through 9 (soon to be 10) Cecchetti exams and my success would not have been possible without her. She exemplifies her passion for her students and for ballet daily, dedicating numerous hours into preparing each and everyone of them for the next step. Her dedication is more than just admirable, and through her example, I have been able to acquire this same passionate dedication, attributing it to multiple aspects of my life. Ms. Vinton has shaped me as a person, enriching not only my balletic skills but also enriching my disposition as a whole. Her influence has left an eternal impression on me, and I will never be able to thank her enough.” – Kate Phinney, Sarasota