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Alfredo Corvino Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Alfredo Corvino
Sponsored by Ernesta Corvino.
Mark DeGarmo
August 5, 2025
I am forever grateful for the practice and the person, Dr. Corvino, who modeled a life in dance and teaching that was inclusive, rigorous, and filled with love of the work. His legacy continues through Andra and Ernesta, thank you for your brilliant examples, and all of his students and mentees. Much love.
Karen Masaki
August 4, 2025
Much love to Ernie and Andra on this anniversary. I am filled with gratitude and admiration for their dedication to the legacy of their father. Ernie and Andra are great pedagogues in their own right and bring so much joy and delight through their teaching.
Love and Aloha,
Karen Masaki
Patricia Rocco
August 3, 2025
Dear Mr Corvino, whatever you are, out there, dancing on the heavenly stage, I will never forget you,...you are enshrined in my Memory, like my own beloved parents , you and your wonderful daughters and wife taught me about so much more than Just dance. You set up an example of beauty & excellence in the world (the kind of beauty that can save someone) and taught me that with discipline and hard work, that beauty was accessibile to all of us.... forever. And I will never forget that, or you, wherever I am....Love Always, Patty Rocco from Rome
Barbara Kaufmann
August 3, 2025
The Sky above Wuppertal today*
Alfredo always mirrored in my heart and dance life*
Much love Barbara
Ellen Kogan
August 2, 2025
I miss you more the older I get - miss the warmth, energy and just plain straight forward approach to dance that was a part of Dance Circle. It is simply not replaceable and I miss it everyday. Thank you for those days, for the excellent training that I use still and for instilling in me strong artistic direction, technical strength and a sense of deep commitment to our art form.
Dorothee Caan
August 2, 2025
With Love and Gratitude always to Mr. Corvino and the extraordinary Corvino Family, Dorothee
Jean Connolly
August 1, 2025
On this anniversary and always, I am missing you and Mrs. C and the love and direction that you both shared.
Thank you to you for imparting to me your concept of equipose at the barre--and in the world.
Thank you also to Andra and Ernesta for extending your legacy and helping me always.
With love.
Elyse Shafarman
August 1, 2025
As a young person, taking Ballet in Oakland, Ca, I grew up hearing about Mr. Corvino and learning his technique from his protege Bath Jahn. When I came to New York in the 80´s to study dance in College, Dance Circle, Mr. Corvino, and Andra and Ernesta were a bright spot of warmth, colored by musicality, intelligent body mechanics and ballet that could be performed by every body. I treasure my time studying with Alfredo, and the whole family. Mr. Corvino, honors and blessings for the gifts you gave me and so many dancers.
Aida Vainieri
August 1, 2025
the Best Theacher and hunan in all story of our company!! i miss him so much. Thank you Mr . Corvino always in my heart!!!!
Todd Cook
July 31, 2025
As the years continue to unfold, my affection for those times continues to grow. I miss those days but also feel lucky to have experienced it.
Paula Thomson and Maurice Godin
July 30, 2025
Thank you Mr. Corvino and know that Ernesta and Andra are carrying on your legacy. We are all deeply grateful and blessed to the entire Corvino family.
Sarah Noll
July 30, 2025
I have a unique appreciation of the teachings of Alfredo Corvino as I was, for a time, an accompanist for his morning classes at Dance Circle. I also studied ballet with Andra, Ernesta, and Alfredo in the evening classes. When I first came to the studio I was a young 20 something with very little experience under my belt, but something told us all that this was a "yes."
They took me in as family and I will always be so appreciative of all the lessons and the fun times as well. I will never forget a particular Halloween, where I dressed like Lucy and he was my Ricky.
No other ballet teacher could hold a candle to Alfredo´s musicality. He responded to every nuance and helped me learn how to do the job!
I am glad to still be in touch with Andra and Ernesta and always treasure getting to see them as well. Thanks for carrying on such a beautiful legacy!
Chandler Holland
July 30, 2025
What a wonderful teacher and person Mr. Corvino was. For someone like myself who started training in my late teens, no way could I have understood the common sense aesthetics of ballet / dance technique without the guiding hand of Mr. Corvino. My stiff body and limited facility didn't mean a thing to him, there were some teachers that looked past me, but I believe he welcomed the challenge. Forever grateful
Ernesta Corvino
July 30, 2025
Dear Dad,
You are with us every single day as your love and wisdom guide us through dance and life. Forever grateful....Your daughter, Ernie Xxoo
PS...Tell Mom we´ll be celebrating her birthday soon!
Mira-Lisa Katz
July 29, 2025
May Alfredo Corvino´s memory always be a blessing.
Nina Ries Easter
July 29, 2025
More and more ,as time goes by,I remember you saying movement is like casting ripples like a stone thrown in the water...For sure your legacy ripples and echoes vastly in my and your students´ hearts and beautifully in Andra and Ernesta in their presence and work,
Thank you
LeCee G. Johnson
July 29, 2025
Still remember him in love and use his guiding principles of love and truth in my work.
Caralyn Bishop-Abadinsky
July 29, 2025
What a joy it is to have such wonderful memories to share with those who have learned so much and embraced the Corvino legacy. Thank goodness for Andra and Ernesta keeping Alfredo's work and philosophy alive. Thank you, for sharing all that your amazing father has brought to this world - not just in dance, but in spirit as well.
Karen Masaki
August 18, 2024
Thank you, Andra and Ernie, for opening a world of ballet to me, your student from half-way across the world. Your clarity, precision, musicality, and devotion to artistry are a beautiful tribute to your father's legacy.
With love and gratitude,
Karen Masaki
Nikki Cole
August 1, 2024
I miss you and the family, so much, Alfredo. Although it's been many years, I often find myself sharing a pearl of your wisdom or pertinent dance note with others as your incomparable memory and legacy live on. Love and very best to Andra and Ernesta and the rest of your students who remember me. xo
Suzanne Gregoire
July 31, 2024
With deep gratitude for all you taught me, dear Mr. Corvino, and for all I continue to learn from your incredible daughters Andra and Ernesta, as they carry on your
legacy and enrich it. With love.
Jean Connolly
July 31, 2024
Mr. Corvino, I am remembering you with love today, as always.
Thank you for all of the joy that you gave me and for the teachings that you shared, which are being carried forth perfectly by Andra and Ernesta. You embodied how to move through life with beauty and meaning--an enduring gift! Thank you again.
Love,
Jean
Barbara Kaufmann
July 31, 2024
Alfredo , Maestro present and precious in my heart and mind to the day , with much love from Barbara
Paula Thomson
July 30, 2024
Mr. Corvino will always be deeply honored and treasured and now Andra and Ernesta continue spreading his amazing wisdom in their own unique ways. Maurice and Paula send deep gratitude and love to the Corvinos (both on this planet and on the other side of the rainbow)
Lise Brenner
July 30, 2024
As always, grateful and blessed to have been part of the Corvino dance community
Ellen Kogan
July 30, 2024
I am forever grateful for all I have learned from the Corvino Family. Their quest for beauty and function, attention to detail, commitment to integrity, clear mind, and awareness of the subtle shades of dance technique remain an inspiration to me. Thank you Alfredo, Marcella, Andra, and Ernie.
Caralyn Bishop-Abadinsky
July 30, 2024
The memory of Alfredo has not dimmed one iota. His talents, patience and kindness is carried on through his daughters, Andra and Ernesta, who continually reinforce the soul of dance that he epitomized.
.
Dorothee Caan
July 30, 2024
So grateful to continue the legacy with the fabulous Corvino Daughters, learning something new and nurturing every day - Danke, merci, thank You!
Ernie and Andta
July 29, 2024
Another year of missing you but always remembering you and carrying on your work. We love you
Nick Burge
August 31, 2023
In the midst of Hell´s kitchen, Mr. Corvino´s Dance Circle was an oasis of calm concentration, beauty, truth and love. Alfredo cultivated an atmosphere of close attention and concentration amongst his students with his wisdom, soft spoken manner, gentle humour and kindness. I´m forever grateful to the Corvino family for their inspiring teaching and the generous support they gave to me as I was starting out on my dancing career.
Karen Masaki
August 9, 2023
Ernesta and Andra are my link to Maestro Corvino, who comes vividly alive through their insights and stories. With each Zoom class, these two master pedagogues demonstrate depth of insight, "eagle eyes," and unstinting devotion to their art form and their students. They demand clarity in seeing, fullness of execution, and full-bodied musicality.
Ernie and Andra are living tributes to their father. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to learn from them and, by extension, from the great Maestro.
Thank you! With much love and great Aloha - Karen
Fleure Nicoletti
August 7, 2023
For a man of many personal and professional successes my experience of him was that he was humble, free of ego, and a proponent of the physical world and its truths as it translated into the world of dance.
A gentle man, loving father, and devoted husband who created a life for himself that nourished his talents and interests while at the same time provided opportunity for his family to do similarly.
He loved good simple food and the company of others to share it with....
Alfredo was likewise comfortable to be around and there was always something to be learned from him as he was generous in the way of sharing knowledge.
One could say Alfredo was a mensch of many dimensions!
Janet Barad
August 5, 2023
From New York to Wuppertal, from beginner to professional-how fortunate we all are to have been embraced and touched by the loving Circle started by Alfredo and Marcella. Mr. Corvino's down-to-earth, generous, and soft-spoken tutelage is irreplaceable. I am so happy and grateful it continues to live on in the teachings and ongoing friendship of Andra and Ernie.
Caralyn Bishop-Abadinsky
August 4, 2023
The messages and the feelings expressed through them open my heart even more so see how much my cousins and their parents have left such imprints on so many talented individuals. Dance was only an infinitesimal part of their influence. How proud I am to be a part of the Corvino family.
Faith Kimberling
August 4, 2023
So much love to you Ernesta and Andra as you remember your Dad. I am so grateful for you both- for the love, community, sharing, and thoughtful teaching that is so deeply felt by us your students as you pass on your father´s legacy. I have really enjoyed hearing the stories and ideas he had and feel that I know and love him without having met him. With Love, sympathy, and gratitude, Faith Kimberling
Dorothee Caan
August 3, 2023
Dear Andra and Ernesta
Science and art, wisdom and imagination, pragmatism and idealismromanticism!
Strong and soft, ring of truthsense of the eternal.
Respect, soft-spokenness, vision, humanityhonesty.
"Your first plié is the same as your last - hopefully you will have changed in the process!"
Meeting, learning from this Your Family has been a blessing and a source of love, nurturance, a sharing of Dance in a most beautiful and unique way, establishing in me a reservoir of strength, confidence (caanfidence), faith, ballon!
A gifted history teacher in high school taught us, history is made by individuals.
Gratefully yours always, Dorothee
Bambi L Anderson
August 2, 2023
I can only say how lucky I was that HT Chen and Dion (HT Chen & Dancers) took me into their company all those years ago, and introduced me to the teacher (and training) who would make my career in dance possible. (I was a rank beginner in essence) I'm sure he must have lost his patience now and again, but I never saw it. He always spoke softly. Sometimes I had to walk away from the barre and move closer to where he was to hear him, because every word was a gem I didn't want to lose. ( later, Stuart Gold would tell me, I drove him crazy when I did that) I cherish those long ago times at that simple two studio dance space. There were none like it in all of NY! I miss the welcoming smile of Mrs. Corvino at the front desk, and the conversations in the dressing room. I will always be grateful for the teaching of The Maestro Alfredo Corvino and how he taught me the science of dance and motion. :)
Thomas Z. Shepard
August 2, 2023
Modest, kind, brilliant.
Janice Dulak
August 2, 2023
I really didn't like ballet. much, as I was a modern dancer. However I knew it was good for me. When I met Mr. Corvino, my whole outlook changed. It was ballet at its best. I felt it made sense and my body felt amazing. The honesty in the work is probably the best way to describe how I feel about what Mr. Corvino gave to dance. As well as a feeling of care and community. And that continues with Andra and Ernesta. Thank you.
Erin Hunter Jennings
August 2, 2023
I didn´t get to know or study with Maestro Corvino while he was alive, but am getting to know him through Andra and Ernesta, who are two of the best teachers and people I have ever had the honor to learn from. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. He lives on through you. With much love, gratitude, inspiration and respect,
Erin
Mark DeGarmo
August 2, 2023
I am so very grateful for Mr. Corvino's presence in my life. His legacy continues to guide and inform me. Sending much love to Andra and Ernesta and holding Mrs. Corvino in my heart as well.
LeCee Johnson
August 2, 2023
What I learned from Mr. C. has helped me not only as a dancer but as a director and choreographer. One day in class he said "You're smart, dear, reverse the direction of the step and choreograph!" I did just that in musicals I directed and produced.
He and his family became my family. My life was irrevocably changed for the better. I am grateful in so many ways. I continue his legacy by directing children in musicals in the Corvino way with humor, grace and good technique.
After my recent show, audience members commented they'd never seen like it in youth theater. Everyone working with joy and mutual respect in a professional production.
Thank you, Mr. Corvino. That's you and your lovely family at work!
I miss you and your beautiful wife every time I work. I'm so grateful I found you!
Easter Nina
August 2, 2023
Grateful isn't big enough a word to express Mr.Corvino's ongoing blessing in my life so today and every day we dance! Andra and Ernesta you embody and carry on the beautiful gift of this work and indeed way of life.
So much love,dance,teaching and sharing.
Lise Brenner
August 2, 2023
Dear Mr C- with great love and thanks as always! For your teaching and presence.
Ernesta Corvino
August 1, 2023
Another year, another anniversary of your reunion with Mom. No matter how many years pass, your presence and continued inspiration never diminishes... just like our love and appreciation for the best father and mentor two daughters could ever wish for. Love from E and A
Jean Connolly
August 1, 2023
Dear Mr. Corvino, Another year goes by and I send you my love. I miss you--and your support and insights, both at the barre and in the world at large.
Yet, Andra and Ernesta carry forward your legacy with absolute clarity and grace. (Thank you to them.)
Thank you for the continuing gifts of dance and equipoise--and for including me in your eternal Dance Circle.
Love,
Jean
Suzanne Gregoire
August 1, 2023
Dear Mr Corvino, I never realized when I first walked into Dance Circle how deeply your teachings were going to influence my life and my work. I thank you with all my heart every day, and am blessed that this simple, clear and beautiful teaching continues as I learn from your incredible daughters.
Patricia Rocco
July 31, 2023
MAESTRO Corvino will remain in our hearts forever as the epitome of the beauty of dance in its purest form and fortunately the soul of this beauty lives on in his daughters, Ernie and Andra. It is an honor to remember him. Love to you all, always, Patty Rocco
Paula Thomson
July 29, 2023
Sending love to Andra and Ernie. I am certain that both Mr. and Mrs Corvino are very proud of you and your commitment to continuing the Corvino Legacy. Heart felt love sent to all along with much gratitude
Dian Dong
July 29, 2023
Forever in our hearts: Alfredo Corvino and his wife, Marcella and daughters Andra and Ernesta welcomed generations of dancers at Dance Circle.
Nikki
July 29, 2023
Alfredo, Marcella, Ernie and Andra: The legacy of the great teachings I've received from all of you lives on in my heart eternally. I still find myself talking about the maestro and the many fine (and funny) stories that occurred during my time at Dance Circle. You have taught me more than you will ever know. Thank you from the deepest part of me!!
Jean Connolly
August 1, 2022
Dear Mr. Corvino, I am thinking of you with extra love tonight--as I remember so many wonderful classes and supportive words, meals in your kitchen, holidays together, parties in your backyard, and so much more fun and wisdom.
Thank you for continuing to share your beautiful, gifted daughters with the world and me.
I miss you...and send you my love. Jean
Karen Masaki
August 1, 2022
While I never had the honor to study with Maestro Corvino, I am touched by his genius through the work of his two beautiful and gifted daughters, Ernesta and Andra. Through two years of Zoom classes, my love for ballet has bloomed under their careful and inspiring guidance. The Maestro is there in spirit and every class brims with nuanced instruction and good humor. Thank you, Ernie and Andra, for continuing your father's great work with such brio, love and integrity.
Patty
July 31, 2022
Not a day goes by that I don´t miss you...XOXO
Todd Cook
July 31, 2022
Like those who have commented before me... so many wonderful, fun, and funny memories with Mr. and Mrs. Corvino. I'm not sure there is anything I could add.
But I certainly echo that I feel so lucky to have experienced their studio during that time. The world has changed so much and I was blessed to catch the tail end of that era.
SUZANNE GREGOIRE
July 30, 2022
Dear Mr. Corvino,
There is not a day that goes by that your teachings, artistry, humor and spirit guide and influence my work and path forward. We are all blessed to continue learning from your remarkable daughters Andra and Ernesta. There are no words Mr Corvino. I hold my palms together at my heart and thank you.
Ellen Kogan
July 30, 2022
As each year passes, I am more aware of how special Alfredo Corvino and his wife, Marcella were. I miss them. They taught me so much about dance and how to take that knowledge and use it, not just on stage, but as a person. I am blessed to have had them in my life at that time as they paved the way for me to fully experience this wonderful art form then, and carry what I have learned forward now. Bless both Andra and Ernie for what they do to keep this work moving forward. I am grateful to have been and be a part of this tradition.
Ellen Kogan
Nikki Cole
July 30, 2022
Reading so many tributes to Mr. Corvino brings back a flood of beautiful memories that will stay with me forever. What a wonderful legacy lives on in Andra and Ernie. Love and miss you and Marcella so....
Paula Thomson
July 29, 2022
I am forever grateful to Mr. and Mrs. Corvino and to their two amazing daughters, Andra and Ernesta. The wisdom shared and continues to be shared is precious and life-giving. Maurice and Paula send their love and thanks
Judi Mark
July 29, 2022
Forever grateful to Mr.Corvino for his patient in depth training, wisdom and guidance. Diana Hart, my cousin introduced me when I moved to NYC. He helped me rid myself of previous bad habits and I became a devoted student of ballet. I was able to utilize my studies with all styles of dance. I will never forget him.
Jason McDole (student)
July 29, 2022
Thinking of you, Mr. Corvino. You forever etched a memory in me.
Love to the family. Xoxo
Lise Brenner
July 29, 2022
I was talking about Mr. Corvino just yesterday! xxxxxx Lise
Caralyn Bishop-Abadinsky
July 29, 2022
The talents Alfredo brought to this world exceed those of his expertise in the field of dance. He was one of the kindest, gentlest, wisest people I've ever known. His memory is more than just a blessing; his memory brings strength and reminds me to be open and enjoy even the small things in life....I miss you, dear Alfredo...
Terry Rieser
July 29, 2022
I have only gratitude for the many wonderful years with Alfredo and the Corvinos. He could explain the inexplicable and his (their) approach truly does liberate every dancer to go beyond the technique to be and express their unique spirit and soul. Class was always a joyful privilege and just seeing the messages today has brought the gift of so many memories of and the comfort of the mutual shared understanding of how blessed we were to have the Maestro and Marcella for so long and to still have Ernie and Andra sharing the gifts of their inspiration. Nothing and no one has influenced me more. Can never express in words. Forever thankful
Paula Thomson
August 2, 2021
Eternal gratitude to the Corvino family. The brilliance and compassion of Mr. and Mrs. Corvino are alive and well in Andra and Ernesta. Through their wisdom and dedication, we all continue to gain from the Corvino legacy. The pandemic has oddly enabled dancers around the world to study on a daily basis. Yahoo to zoom and to Ernesta and Andra. With heartfelt thanks and love.
Jean Connolly, student
August 2, 2021
I am thinking of you especially today. Thank you for all the love and joy that you gave me in your teaching and by your friendship. Those gifts are alive today in the generosity and brilliance fo your wonderful daughters, who teach with clarity and care--and spread love in all that they do.
I miss you.
Caralyn Bishop-Abadinsky
August 2, 2021
Whenever we would get together for family occasions, Alfredo always in good spirits. No matter what was happening, he could find something to event any situation. His calm carried us all to a perfect event - no matter who else tried to see it differently. No matter what the event, we knew we would have a wonderful, heartwarming time. He never failed to put us in the best mood! I so miss his smiles.....
Nina Easter
August 2, 2021
Your spirit, being and legacy are so vibrant and fully present! Andra and Ernesta are reaching so many dancers on this crazy thing called zoom! So often I feel your presence. Grateful isn´t big enough a word so we shall just ,,keep dancing
Ernesta Corvino
August 2, 2021
After receiving an Honorary Doctorate from The Juilliard School.
Your Ernie
August 2, 2021
Today (the day you grand jeted into Mommy's arms 16 years ago) and EVERY day, we remember you, we celebrate you, and we continue the legacy of the beautiful work you so lovingly honed. Forever in our hearts.
Ellen Kogan
August 2, 2021
A shinning light that doesn´t seem to dim - really such a blessing for so many people to have known and worked with this man and his family. Alfredo touched some essence of love and respect for the human body that transcends dance to meet the human spirit and all it has to offer. I am so grateful to have had him and his family in my life.
Nancy Turano
August 1, 2021
Nancy Turano
August 1, 2021
Nancy Turano
August 1, 2021
Always Grateful for you Maestro Corvino. Every day i walk down the hallway of NJDTE and show the studio in your name. I tell the story of our organizations history and am reminded of my fortune as well as so many others to have trained and been inspired by him. You are always remembered and your LEGACY LIVES ON!. WE All remember you today and every day! GRATITUDE!
Karen Masaki
August 1, 2021
Thank you, Andra and Ernesta, for sharing the legacy of Maestro Corvino through your continued online Zoom classes. You've shared so generously insights gained through decades of dedicated training and nuggets of wisdom from Maestro Corvino. The year-and-a-half of work with you two has been a lifeline through a difficult time. You've filled your students' lives with concentrated learning and healing laughter, carrying on the beautiful legacy of your parents. Much love to you.
Nikki Cole
July 31, 2021
Hardly a day goes by that I don't hear the whisperings of a beautiful piece of wisdom passed on by this genius of a maestro. Alfredo's brilliance has been woven into the fabric of my life and work in the manner of who he was - quiet, intentional, and enduring. Never to be forgotten. Marcella was my rock and support in those crazy 8th Ave. days. I know I wouldn't have made it through without her. Andra and Ernie, I miss you so, and am hoping a Corvino reunion is in the works once we're all able to travel and visit again. Much love always to the whole family.
Doro Caan
July 31, 2021
Dearest Marcella and Alfredo,
we are so lucky to spend such quality time with Andra and Ernie, working and exchanging on Zoom - unimaginable before now and so enriching to be close to my New York dance family - a source of joy for which i am sooo grateful!
The body is responding and mind and spirit, too!
Your spirits are always present and it feels like home!
Love love love, Dorothee
Patty Rocco
July 30, 2021
The more time goes by, the more grateful I am to have studied dance with the maestro Alfredo Corvino. His memory never fades for me and his artistry is the most special and precious gift, that lives on through his daughters Andra and Ernie! They taught me the beauty of dance. Love forever to all the Corvinos, Patty Rocco
Daniel Lewis
July 30, 2021
Such beautiful and wonderful memories. My teacher, my colleague, and a truly good friend. He is always missed.
Catherine Gree
July 29, 2021
I often find myself sharing a piece of Alfredo´s wisdom with my students; his memory is passing to the next generation.
Lise Brenner
July 29, 2021
Always grateful and glad to have been a student of Mr. Corvino. What a gift! love always
Francie
August 12, 2020
Dear Mr. Corvino,
My first year at Juilliard, I met the challenge of my classes with a young, frenetic energy. I wanted to do more: do it bigger, faster, fancier, flashier. I was a horse in the starting stall not wanting to be held back. It took me awhile to understand that your calm, intentional approach was leading me to the water. Instead of telling me I was wrong, you led me to see the right answer. You taught me to question, to try, to watch, and to learn. You allowed me the time and space to figure it out.
And Mrs. Corvino,
Thank you for being there with your calm, caring support - a bulwark in the heart of New York City.
And dear Andra and Ernie,
You and your father provided the technique that led me to freedom, opportunity, and joy! I was able to manifest my dreams and passions with the technique and artistry you nurtured. I love you both so much! Thank you for carrying on!
Solveig Santillano
August 7, 2020
I am truly grateful for the chance to know and work with Alfredo Corvino. His gentle spirit, sense of fun, quick wit, cut to the chase poetic economy evoked so many dance/life “ah ha!” moments following brilliant observations and playful analogies. Years ago I happily found my way into the Dance Circle Family as a very green hungry to learn undergraduate student and gained more than words can express. I became part of something far larger through his legacy, through his dear wife, Marcella’s kind and wise counsel, his two magnificent daughters and brilliant teachers, Andra and Ernesta, who continue to bless my own and many other’s lives. Very early on I had my first of many illuminating moments where dance became a space for profound clarity, transformation, and expression. And I was hooked, taking extra classes on the weekends and summers, ultimately gaining lifelong friendships as well as tools for moving with grace, logic, musicality, and kindness. What a gift to continue that journey now with Ernesta, Andra, long time, and new Dance Circle friends - It has been so inspiring and grounding to reconnect! Classes are always focused, fun, and grounded in sound movement principles. I am forever grateful for these zoom reconnections. The outer chaos at bay while dancing in community; here clarity through concentrated experiential learning prevails. Regular class meetings awaken inroads, even hopefulness. The Corvino legacy continues through thoughtfully constructed bodily practices and insights, extending this profound pedagogy forward - a tapestry of wisdom, generosity, laughter and love!!!
Ever grateful-
Love,
Solveig Olsen Santillano
Caralyn Bishop-Abadinsky
August 6, 2020
Alfredo always showed the most generous spirit to all with whom he came into contact. He shared his knowledge and talent with everyone. Our relationship did not only come came from his importance in the field of dance. I was fortunate observe his passion for his wife and children, and of course, his students. Alfredo always made me feel that he cared. How fortunate I was to share in his amazing love of life, open heart, and talent through the lens of a family member. The "Corvino Approach" lives with my cousins, Ernesta and Andra - Not just in dance, but in love and appreciation of all those fortunate people to be connected in various ways to their lives. Her was a perfect model for us all. Lucky me.
Susan O'Kelley
August 5, 2020
Reconnecting with Ernie after 20 years has been an amazing blessing. Although I missed the opportunity to meet Mr. C, Ernesta and Andra preserve his legacy and bring so much to the dance community by continuing to teach his principles of movement. Class is so much more than just the technical rigors of barre work or center floor. It is breathing, moving, and living through every action so that the technical work isn’t work, it’s Dance. Much love and light in honor of their father.
Barbara
August 4, 2020
To have known and worked with Alfredo - Maestro Corvino - is a huge precious treasure in my life! His humour, wisdom and knowledge is present till today. To have him staying at our home in Wuppertal when he was teaching the company of Pina was a great pleasure and honour. My love goes out to him and his beautiful three ladies Marcella, Ernesta and Andra.
Dawn Lille
August 4, 2020
What a great joy it was to be able to write a book about Alfredo and to get to know and then be a part of this great extended family!
Nanette Kazaoka
August 4, 2020
If could speak to him, I would say THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU FOR TEACHING ME HOW TO DANCE.
One day I came to class, the weather was very bad,like a hurricane outside so no one had come to class except me. I said to maestro, "It is o.k. you don't have to teach the class with just me" However he insisted in teaching the class so I did it and it was the best class that I ever had.
Catherine Green
August 4, 2020
When I first was in Mr. Corvino's class at Dance Circle in the late '80s, I did not fully understand how fortunate I was. But now, after decades studying with his daughters and my own efforts to bring the Corvino Approach to my own students, I am completely honored and grateful to have met and learned from Maestro Alfredo Corvino. His wisdom, wit, balanced perspective and deep knowledge of ballet, and that of his daughters Andra and Ernesta, is a gift in my life, one that I hope to share with my own students.
Noelle Geller
August 3, 2020
Alfredo Corvino,
You found your grace in dance and we are all so lucky to have been touched by it in various ways. Taking dance with your daughters over the last few months, I get to see how your mastery and love of the craft live on. Thank you!
Elizabeth Keen
August 3, 2020
With my appreciation and gratitude for the dance principles, practice and largesse laid down by Alfredo Corvino. Here's to his on-going legacy.
Nazareth Panadero
August 3, 2020
The strong Echo of Maestro Corvino will be allways with me, with us in Pina Bausch Company.
His deep Knowledge, his Humor, his wonderful Character full of Charme.
The time with him in Tour was so rich and wonderful, not only his perfect Training ,but also the time we shared together, the chats with Maestro Corvino where allways wonderfull , his History , about Dance, about Life . What a brilliant and sharp Intelligence, what a young Spirit till the End.
Thanks Pina I coold meet Maestro Corvino and I am so happy to continúe being in touch with Ernesta and Andra.Thanks a lot,what a wonderful Family.
Lots of Love.
Nazareth
Janet Barad
August 3, 2020
A fellow student from a college dance program once said to me, "I know a teacher whose approach to ballet is so gentle," which, upon graduation, prompted me to seek out Mr. Corvino and the Dance Circle. I was so delighted to find a place and methodology that clicked—one that allowed me to make sense of ballet in a calm, non-judgmental, supportive environment—emphasizing musicality, timing, and laws of nature to facilitate an unaffected style. His daughters, Andra and Ernesta, have carried on his legacy with dedication, kindness, and humor. Through their generosity, both in and outside of class, they make everyone feel they are a part of their family. I miss Mr. C but feel fortunate to belong to a global community within a community that he and his wife, Marcella, created, and that continues to be carried forth by his daughters with love.
Cordelia (aka to you, Dabney)
August 3, 2020
15 years means nothing. Alfredo's teachings are lessons of life, life-itself that knows no past nor can be marked by the measure of a passing. I continue to draw on my years of experience as a young student who ventured to NYC specifically to study with Alfredo at Dance Circle. Those years changed everything. Things began to make sense. Alfredo's teaching approach (kept fresh and remarkable by Ernesta and Andra), his gentle voice and centering spirit, his insights and thoughtful mind imbued in those of us lucky enough to study with him a kind of embodied philosophy that I think we share—a way of being in the world that he modeled daily in his classes, leading us in how to discover in our already-wise bodies (if we would just get out of the way) the deeply-sourced dance that ultimately allows the trained body to recede in the unleashed presence of dance circles of energy. I feel so very fortunate and am deeply grateful to have had the great dance master and teacher Alfredo Corvino in my life, and now, to have that legacy being kept alive so movingly by Andra and Ernesta is amazing. I cannot overstate the influence that Corvino dance has had in shaping my work and also my practice at being present to unfolding interconnections, balances, mysteries, and joys.
Irene Feigenheimer
August 3, 2020
Alfredo was an inspiration to me and all who studied with him at the Dance Circle. Basically , a modern dancer, I found that he embodied in his teachings, the same emphasis on qualities of movement, phrasing, spacial awareness and clarity that modern dancers embrace.
Alfredo taught dance, not just steps! I thanks him for giving me a love of ballet as well as strength.
His daughters, Ernesta and Andra have kept his legacy going , and now, through the zoom classes, I have reconnected with them and the wonderful insight they inherited.
I honor the maestro through my own teaching and am forever great full for his presence in my life.
Maki Hasui
August 3, 2020
Mr. Corvino,
Discovering Corvino Ballet is one of the most wonderful things happened in my life. While learning from your amazing daughters, Andra and Ernesta, l always feel your love as well.
Thank you!
Terry Rieser
August 3, 2020
Every day Alfredo inspired, shared and gave of his knowledge and ability to each of his students. I was lucky enough to be there daily for over 25 years, and will always remember the twinkle in his eye, his love for his students, his metaphors, examples and musicality. I hear his voice even today when I stand at the barre reminding me of everything I should be thinking and doing. He lives on in all of us. I know he is dancing with the angels now and teaching classes in heaven.
Terry Rieser
August 3, 2020
His talent, his spirit, his generosity are unique and unparalleled. His gift of being able to share and teach the essence of an art form, inspiring and freeing generations of dancers to create and to be themselves is still missed today. He loved people and he loved dance. He loved his family and his students. He loved life!
Lise Brenner
August 3, 2020
During the lockdown I started teaching ballet class in the kitchen for my housemates (one in Barcelona the rest of us in Amsterdam). I was inspired by Ernie’s online class and of my housemates here 5 of us are or were professional dancers. These are gorgeous movers. They were totally blown away. What? It works like that? I never knew... Corvino training scores again!! I can never say how much Alfredo’s presence and work gave to my life and what it has meant to me to be able to pass some of that wisdom on to others. Thank you always.
Bianca Bob
August 3, 2020
Dance Circle was a magic place, and the Corvino family the magicians. They always made it feel like my second home, and I couldn't wait to climb those steep, slanted stairs to this happy place (and have candy from Mrs. Corvino's glass jar).
I started "baby ballet" classes at Dance Circle after a fabulously brief time with another "teacher" who chased me and other tots around a room screaming in Russian and banging her big angry drum. Dance Circle was the perfect antidote and oasis where I learned to love dance.
Mr. Corvino was always warm and kind to me, never treated me like a little kid and that made me feel special. After my youngster class with Andra and Ernesta, I loved to peer through the door and watch him teach his grownup classes. He had a lovely, intense presence and energy that glowed steadily from him and radiated back from his students.He always built up his dancers and patiently coaxed out their best. There was a lot of love, camaraderie, and often laughter in that studio.
I was in awe of him and his dancers, and took in many lessons watching through that doorway. It was a huge honor when he gestured ten-year-old me to join his grownup class in the center. It was scary, but I knew he had my back, and it was going to be fun (it was!) That thrill I never forgot.
I'm so grateful to have been in this place and time where so many came to grow and flourished under the Corvino family wings. Too many dance studios foster a negative tear down approach to learning this craft that kills spirits and creativity. The Corvinos built their artists up by showing us our strengths and possibilities, clear and attainable.
Dance Circle was that family jewel where you felt seen, accepted and loved. That deep knowledge, patience, and Mr. and Mrs. Corvino's generosity of spirit live on in Andra and Ernesta, both beautiful dancers and deeply gifted teachers. The Corvino magic continues through them and the thousands of amazing artists who were fortunate enough to orbit in the Corvino family circle.
I am forever grateful to Andra and Ernesta as my first teachers, and to their first teacher, the magic Maestro Corvino.
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