Renowned New York-based dancer and award-winning instructor, Lu Wang, recently celebrated a significant achievement as her student, Elaine, clinched the first place and overall grand prize in the 9-11 solo category at the prestigious Inferno Dance Competition. This notable victory highlights not only Elaine’s dedication and skill but also Wang’s exceptional guidance as a mentor and expert in the field of dance.

Wang expressed her deep appreciation for the Inferno Dance Competition, praising it for providing a platform where both professional and amateur dancers can showcase their talent. She mentioned that she herself has won numerous awards in competitions worldwide, which allowed her to accumulate valuable experience and achieve her current success step by step. She emphasized that such competitions are invaluable as they allow dancers to shine regardless of their experience level. The open nature of the competition, which welcomes various dance styles, creates a rich tapestry of cultural and dance expressions. Wang noted that the dancers' passion and the cultural depth they bring to their performances are what make these events truly special.

Elaine’s success at the competition is a testament to her hard work and the unwavering support from her parents. Wang attributed Elaine’s win not only to her technical prowess but also to her ability to connect emotionally with the judges and the audience. Wang highlighted that the essence of dance lies not in the perfection of technique alone but in the artist’s ability to experience and convey emotions through their movements. This philosophy underpins Wang’s teaching approach, where she prioritizes artistic expression and the joy of dance over technical perfection.

Wang emphasized that the key to Elaine’s success was her love for dance and her ability to enjoy every moment on stage. She stressed the importance of attention to detail, from the nuanced execution of dance moves to the emotional interpretation of music. According to Wang, these elements combined with genuine passion are the true determinants of success in dance.

Reflecting on her teaching philosophy, Wang shared, "I am grateful for the insights I gained from the top-tier dance education master's program at NYU, which significantly shaped my views on dance education. Through continuous practice in my professional work, I have developed my own system of dance education. I never aim to train my students to become 'dance robots' who showcase impeccable techniques without any creativity or passion. Instead, I teach them to perceive the world through an artistic lens and to cherish every moment on stage. Dance is not merely about executing moves; it is about feeling the music, the movements, and the stage itself."

Wang also offered advice to dance instructors, urging them to focus on nurturing their students’ artistic sensibilities and creativity rather than solely perfecting their technical skills. She believes that dance, like any art form, should not be confined by rigid rules but should thrive on emotional engagement, creativity, and individuality. Wang advocates for discovering and nurturing each student’s inner artistic world, emphasizing that this is crucial for their growth as artists.

For students preparing for future competitions, Wang encourages them to seize every opportunity to perform on stage, as it offers a different experience from rehearsing in a studio. She views competitions as catalysts for growth, providing valuable learning experiences that help dancers mature. However, Wang cautions against participating in competitions solely for the sake of winning. She believes the true purpose of competing is personal development and the joy of performing.

In conclusion, Wang expressed her hopes for all young dancers to learn and grow, becoming better artists. She remains dedicated to her mission of fostering a deep love for dance and encouraging artistic exploration in her students, ensuring that they not only excel technically but also become well-rounded and passionate dancers.