ALUMNI VOICES

Words from Our Students, Memories for a Lifetime.

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For 20 years, Hariyama Ballet has been more than a place to learn ballet. It has been a place to grow, discover ourselves, build lifelong friendships, and create memories that stay with us forever.

We are deeply grateful to our former students for sharing their heartfelt messages and for reminding us that the lessons learned through dance continue long after leaving the studio.

KARIN

From Ballet Student to Nurse Specializing in Cancer Care

"The lessons I learned through ballet continue to guide me throughout my life."

Happy 20th Anniversary to Hariyama Ballet!

Having witnessed Hariyama Ballet grow and evolve over the past 20 years, I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of its journey. This school has played such an important role in shaping the woman I am today.

Since graduating from college and completing my post-baccalaureate studies, I have become a nurse specializing in cancer treatment and care. I am constantly reminded of how much of what I learned as a dancer continues to apply to my life and my work today.

I am truly grateful for everything this school has given me.

Here's to many more years of this wonderful school, continuing to provide a safe, loving, and nurturing environment where children can discover and explore the beauty of ballet.

Upwards and onwards, always!

With all my love, Karin

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AMELI 

Nine Years of Memories, Lessons & Lifelong Gratitude

"The influence of Hariyama Ballet on my life goes far beyond ballet."

Congratulations to Hariyama Ballet on its 20th Anniversary!

After spending nine years under the guidance of the wonderful teachers at Hariyama Ballet, I can honestly say that the experience shaped me in ways that extend far beyond dance.

I learned so much more than steps and technique. My teachers instilled in me discipline, grace under pressure, the strength to rise after falling, both literally and figuratively, and the importance of approaching life with heart and integrity.

Ballet was never simply about performing. It was also about becoming stronger, kinder, and more aware of the world around me.

There were days when I walked into the studio feeling defeated or unsure of myself, but somehow, by the end of class, I would rediscover my strength. Mami Sensei always saw potential in me, even when I couldn't see it myself, and never stopped encouraging me to grow, not only as a dancer but also as a person.

Mami Sensei, your patience, passion for the art, and unwavering belief in your students have left a lasting impression on so many lives, especially mine.

Some of my fondest memories are the rehearsals for the annual spring performances and the wonderful summers when you welcomed me into your home during summer intensives. Those experiences gave me memories I will treasure forever.

Thank you for every correction, every word of encouragement, and every lesson in both dance and life. I will always be grateful for the nine years I spent at Hariyama Ballet.

Although I cannot be there in person to celebrate this special milestone, please know that I am celebrating with you in spirit and holding deep gratitude for everything Hariyama Ballet has given me.

With all my heart, Ameli Sato

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HANA

A Home Away from Home

"So much of who I am today is thanks to the years I spent at Hariyama Ballet."

Hariyama Ballet's studios have watched me grow up, and I am so grateful for all the memories and lifelong friendships I have made along the way.

So much of who I have become is thanks to the teachers and fellow students who surrounded me, the lessons I learned through dance, and every challenging, joyful, and unforgettable moment we shared in the studio.

Hariyama Ballet will always hold a special place in my heart as my home away from home.

Congratulations on 20 wonderful years!

With love, Hana

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KANAE

Nearly 15 Years of Love, Guidance & Inspiration

"Hariyama Ballet helped me discover my very first love and passion in life — ballet."

Being a student at Hariyama Ballet for nearly 15 years has played an enormous role in shaping the person I am today.

From the time I was barely able to speak, Mami Sensei guided me not only in ballet technique and artistry but also in navigating life. Through her teaching, I learned the importance of etiquette, responsibility, and respect.

I have always admired the way she gives so much love to every student while continuously encouraging us to grow, treating each of us as if we were her own children.

I will forever treasure my years at Hariyama Ballet. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had teachers who became like second mothers to me, and fellow dancers who may once have been my rivals but became some of my closest friends.

I am deeply grateful to Mami Sensei and all the teachers for helping me discover my very first love and lifelong passion: ballet.

Thank you for being such an important part of my life.

With love and gratitude, Kanae

A MESSAGE TO ALL OUR ALUMNI

To every student who has walked through our studio doors over the past 20 years:

Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey.

Whether ballet became your profession, your lifelong passion, or the foundation that helped you pursue a completely different dream, you will always be part of our family.

We are so proud of the people you have become and look forward to seeing all the wonderful things still ahead of you.

Once a part of Hariyama Ballet, always a part of our story.

With love, Mami Hariyama & The Hariyama Ballet Family