TESTIMONIALS

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TESTIMONIALS 💬

“Tom Alexander is an experienced dancer, dance instructor and judge. He combines his passion, technique, and the artistry of dance in everything he does. His years of dedication and expertise have made him not just an instructor but an important asset in the dance industry.

Through years of hard work and experience, he has shaped the careers of countless dancers, fostering excellence and artistry in competitions and performances. His knowledge is like none other, and he continually guides dancers to reach new heights.

Tom is also a mentor, a guiding light for students and fellow instructors alike. His wisdom and encouragement have nurtured the talents of many dancers and inspired many to greater achievements. His mentorship to our studio and other studios out there, is a testament to his commitment to dance and the individuals who dedicate themselves to it.

Tom isn't just a mentor; he is a friend. His warmth and camaraderie are a source of comfort and joy for all who know him.  He is a constant source of support (even though we live many states apart) and a reminder that the dance world is not just about the moves, but about each person's growth and about building lasting connections in and outside the dance family.”

Sara Gilmore

Rhythm & Shoes Dance Studio

BeforeYouStepOnStage

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BeforeYouStepOnStage 🎬

“Mr. Tom has worked with our dancers for years as both a master class/convention teacher and judge. His critiques present not only a deep knowledge of all genres of dance but he is also an advocate of performance skills and a sense of meaning behind choreography. His background as a performer, dancer and singer make his critiques especially applicable for dancers wanting a further professional career. Tom teaches and mentors dancers of all ages and this translates to age appropriate guidance for both the performers and for their teachers and studio owners. He also presents his information in a positive and inspiring manner which encourages rather than defeats the dancer. Tom's experience in the judging world enables him to see the whole dancer across all ages, genres and ability levels and provide meaningful and inspiring feedback.”

Melissa Hargett & Buffa Hargett

Buffa's Dance Studio, LTD.

BeforeYouStepOnStage

BeforeYouStepOnStage ✨

“Thomas Alexander is a wonderful resource to have on your side when preparing for any stage event. I personally know Tommy from the dance arena. He has provided solid, creative insight in his critiques from dance events that my dance company has attended over the years. He sees the whole vision-and gives you clever and tasteful ways to enhance any piece of work that hits the stage. He is very passionate about his work and will provide clients the tools to elevate any stage content to the next level. Tommy is one of a kind!”

Michelle Adams-Meeker

Broadway South Dance

“Tom Alexander is that rare type of teacher, adjudicator and human being that makes everyone feel seen, appreciated, and inspired. He is a rare gift to the dance world and the type of teacher I myself aspire to be. His classes are fast paced and challenging but he somehow balances that with such warmth that everyone in the room, regardless of skill level, still leaves feeling good about themselves. You can also count on him sharing invaluable life lessons with everyone who is lucky enough to attend his classes. As a judge, he is the one you hope to see on the panel and the type of adjudicator you wish all organizations benefited from.  He always expresses appreciation for the dancers and the work they have put in and he takes the time to enjoy the routines instead of talking over them the entire time. This is not to say that he doesn't offer constructive criticism, tips to improve and helpful feedback. However, the difference between him and so many adjudicators today, is that all of his comments are said with love and respect. I truly cannot say enough wonderful things about Tom Alexander. I'm blessed to have learned from him, be inspired by him, and to provide my own students the opportunity to experience his light. Most of all, I'm blessed to call him a friend and a role model.”

Katie Pruitt

The Meredith Gravely Dance Company

“My name is Sandra Black, owner/Director of Dean/Black School of Performing Arts in Michigan and former president of Chicago National Association of Dance Masters.  

I have had the pleasure of working with Tom Alexander in several different capacities, from taking class with him, to having him guest teach and set choreography to hiring him for CNADM to work with our teacher training school, and pre-professional program.  We also honored and recognized his talent with an Artistic Achievement award from CNADM.  

Tom is an expert in many dance styles and is passionate about what he does.  He has been judging for many years across the country and has been a huge influence on many teachers and students in the dance industry.  His feedback when judging is delivered with honesty and insightfulness. Always meant to help students improve technique, performance and gain a special edge. Tom is fun, has a great sense of humor and very approachable. I look forward to having him as a judge when my own students compete. I know that his critique will be fair, positive and beneficial for their improvement in all genres.”

Sandra Black

Dean/Black School of Performing Arts, Inc

“Our studio has had the wonderful opportunity to work with Tom Alexander for many years.  Not only is Tom kind and warmhearted, but he truly impacts each and every student he teaches. A talented dancer himself, his teaching encompasses so many important facets that dancers of all ages and levels need. While teaching audition tips, progressions and choreography Tom always stresses proper technique in every aspect of class.  He always strives to connect to his students, which can be seen through his quick smiles and infectious laughter. His positive impact has rippled through our studio as each dancer took to heart his teachings. Tom’s kindness and professionalism is reflected in the dancers he teaches.”

Beth & Julie

The Dance Company, Inc.

“Routine critiques from Mr. Tommy Alexander are invaluable to choreographers, teachers and dancers. Tommy is well versed and knowledgeable in all forms of dance; not only does he know and appreciate strong fundamental technique, he stays up to date with current trends and styles. As a studio teacher and convention master teacher, Tommy has worked with dancers of all ages and abilities and knows what dancers are able to achieve at these various stages making him able to offer expert critiques. Tommy also prides himself in advocating for age-appropriate music choices, choreography and costuming. Tommy is articulate, fluent and comprehensible with his critiques making it easy for everyone to understand his opinions and suggestions. While he respects all choreographers’ visions, he will politely make suggestions to enhance existing choreography or smooth out transitions.

Tommy offers honest and helpful critiques to all dancers with a nurturing, caring and dynamic character. My dancers and I are always eager to hear Mr. Tommy’s video critiques from competition and are always inspired and eager to make adjustments and corrections for improved future performances. I look forward to using Before You Step On Stage as we prepare for our competition season.”

Melissa Peterson
Owner and Artistic Director, Envision Dance Company, Naperville, IL

“We have had the sheer privilege of watching Tommy Alexander work with our dancers almost 15 years both through the competition and convention circuit as well as, hosting him as a guest artist at our studio. What we love the most about Tommy is his dedication to maintaining the integrity of dance with the next generation of dancers, his professionalism, ability to offer feedback and guidance in a way that inspires and motivates, and his energy and enthusiasm in watching others succeed. 

The feedback we have received from Tommy over the years has always been such that proves to be intentional, relevant and such that really helps us in “moving the needle” in our current project. I have always purposely made our first event of the season one that I know Tommy will be in attendance too. We base a lot of how we move forward with the rest of our season off of the feedback, instruction and guidance we receive from Tommy. 

Tommy always offers our dancers clear, thoughtful feedback that speaks to their direct age, ability and obvious potential. As a choreographer and teacher, I know he will be honest in his opinion of how we used our dancers, worked our staging, selected our costuming as well as how effective the choreography was. If you have ever watched one of Tommy’s classes, you would understand why his professional input and feedback is so valuable. 

Tommy’s classes are always packed full of teaching moments that create opportunities for the dancers to discover more about themselves as technicians, artists and students. When you watch his class, observe his audition process or listen to his critiques and feedback, it is always engaging, supportive, encouraging, honest and delivered in such a way that is nothing short of life-giving. It is obvious that Tommy is in this profession to see others succeed and to help build and mold the next generation of dancers, educators and choreographers. There are not quite enough words to express how much Tommy has impacted our dancers and our team of faculty. We are forever grateful for his dedication to serving others, inspiring the masses, and sharing his gifts and talents with all he comes in contact with. We love Tommy Alexander!”

Alice Fechino Czajkowski & Lauren Czajkowski Gareau

J’adore DANCE

“Our dancers have been professionally judged by Tommy for the last 10 years while stepping on stage at Dance Makers. Tommy has always provided the most useful and positive feedback for our dancers. He creates a safe space where our dancers feel they can receive helpful and useful critiques to better their performances for the next time. Tommy shows the perfect amount of love and support along with necessary judges critiques to make our dancers get the most out of the experience. Every time we see Tommy behind the judges table, we as educators know we are receiving the best, and our dancers are excited to perform for him & show off all their hard work!”

Rachelle Roehlk-Ochsner & Meghan Tomasik

Street Of Dreams Dance

“My studio had the privilege of being judged and taught by Tommy Alexander, and I can't praise him enough. His exceptional teaching skills helped our dancers grow like never before. His honest and fair criticism always pushed them to improve, and he delivered it with kindness and thoughtfulness. Tommy is a true gem in the dance world, and we're grateful for the opportunity to learn from him.”

Emily Karlewicz

The Studio and Studio K Dance

BYSOS

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BYSOS 👑

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