Jacques D'Amboise Quotes

Powerful Jacques D'Amboise for Daily Growth

About Jacques D'Amboise

Jacques d'Amboise, a titan in the world of dance, was born on March 19, 1934, in New York City. His passion for dance ignited at the age of eight when he saw his first ballet performance at the Municipal Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts. The mesmerizing performance by the legendary Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo inspired d'Amboise to pursue a career in dance. D'Amboise joined the School of American Ballet (SAB) at the age of thirteen, becoming an apprentice with the New York City Ballet under the tutelage of George Balanchine, a pivotal figure in modern dance. In 1956, he became a principal dancer with the company and remained there for ten years. His performances in ballets like "Agon," "Apollo," and "Rodeo" showcased his remarkable technique, artistry, and versatility. D'Amboise also ventured into acting, appearing in films such as "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers," "Carousel," and "West Side Story." In 1976, d'Amboise founded the National Dance Institute (NDI), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing dance education to underprivileged children across the United States. His belief that dance can transform lives has been instrumental in shaping the futures of countless young people. Throughout his career, Jacques d'Amboise was awarded numerous accolades, including the National Medal of Arts and the Kennedy Center Honors. He passed away on October 24, 2020, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire generations of dancers and dance enthusiasts alike. Notable quotes from D'Amboise include, "Dance is the hidden language of the soul," and "You don’t have to be a professional to dance." His words echo his profound love for dance and its transformative power.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Dance is the loftiest, most moving, most beautiful of the arts because it is not boring, not terrible, not ugly."

This quote by Jacques D'Amboise emphasizes the unique charm and appeal of dance as an art form. Unlike some traditional arts that may be perceived as dull, monotonous, or unappealing to some viewers, dance is inherently engaging due to its movement and visual aesthetics. Furthermore, dance is beautiful because it transcends common negative connotations associated with other artistic mediums, such as boredom, terror, or ugliness, often resulting from subjective interpretations or abstract representations. Instead, dance captivates audiences through the harmonious blend of body language, rhythm, and emotion, making it a truly captivating and engaging art form.


"To dance is to be out of yourself. Larger, more beautiful, more powerful."

This quote by Jacques D'Amboise suggests that dance transcends one's personal limitations, allowing individuals to experience a sense of expansion, beauty, and power beyond their normal selves. Dance serves as an outlet for self-expression, enabling people to explore aspects of themselves that may be hidden or suppressed in everyday life. In this process, they can tap into inner reserves of strength, creativity, and grace, making them feel more empowered and beautiful.


"You have to believe in your dreams and then they have a way of coming true."

This quote suggests that one should wholeheartedly believe in their aspirations, as such belief can serve as a catalyst for achieving those dreams. The underlying idea is that when we have faith in our goals, we are more likely to take action towards them, persist through challenges, and ultimately make our dreams a reality. It underscores the power of optimism, determination, and self-belief in shaping one's destiny.


"The most important thing is to enjoy what you're doing, to love what you're doing. That's the secret."

This quote highlights the significance of finding joy and passion in the activities we engage in. By enjoying and loving what we do, we are more likely to succeed and find fulfillment. The "secret" is recognizing that happiness and success come from doing things we genuinely enjoy and care about.


"Every day I am grateful for having been given the gift of dance."

This quote expresses a deep appreciation and gratitude from Jacques d'Amboise, a renowned dancer, for the art form of dance that has been bestowed upon him. It signifies the transformative power dance had on his life, and how each day, he cherishes the opportunity to be part of this expressive and creative medium. It also highlights the profound impact and joy that dance brings into one's life, making every day more meaningful and fulfilling.


Who am I? I'm a man, an American, a father, a teacher, but most of all, I am a person who knows how the arts can change lives, because they transformed mine. I was a dancer.

- Jacques d'Amboise

Father, Mine, Lives, Who Am I

Before I was through my teens, I had been introduced and exposed to artists who would, in later years, become legendary.

- Jacques d'Amboise

Through, Been, Before, Exposed

If I had to reflect on the finest classical male ballet dancers of my time, Vladimir Vasiliev of the Bolshoi and the Danish dancer Eric Bruhn were, I feel, without peer.

- Jacques d'Amboise

Dancers, Danish, Classical, Peer

I didn't know if I could act, but I knew I could be a great ballet dancer, and Balanchine put out the carpet for me.

- Jacques d'Amboise

Knew, Could, Ballet Dancer, If I Could

A wild, untamed youth learns nobility through art.

- Jacques d'Amboise

Art, Through, Nobility, Wild

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