Jacques d' Amboise Recognized as one of the finest classical dancers of our time, Jacques d 'Amboise began his classical studies at age eight at the School of American Ballet. At age twelve, he was asked to perform with the Ballet Society and three years later he joined the New York City Ballet. Just one year later he made his European debut at London's Covent Garden. As Balanchine's protege, d'Amboise had more works choreographed specifically for him by "the Ballet Master " than any other dancer, among which include "Stars and Stripes ", "Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux", "Episodes", and "A Midsummer ' s Night' s Dream " . As a choreographer his credits include almost twenty works for the New York City Ballet, including the "Tchaikovsky Suite No. 2", and "Irish Fantasy". He has also starred in numerous films among which include "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers", "Carousel", "The Best Things in Life are Free " and the Disney film, "Offbeat " . He has additionally written and directed for theater, film and television. Jacques d 'Amboise is also the recipient of numerous honorary degrees including the 1998 Medal of Arts, and in 1995, he was a Kennedy Center Honoree. Recently, he has been appointed Distinguished Professor of Arts Pedagogy at SUNY New Paltz, where he is developing a graduate program which focuses on the teaching techniques practiced in National Dance Institute 's Programs. National Dance Institute National Dance Institute (NDI) was founded in 1976 by Jacques d'Amboise with the belief that the arts have a unique power to engage children and motivate them towards excellence. Each year, the programs of NDI inspire thousands of children, reaching across social, ethnic, and economic boundaries and including children facing physical and emotional challenges. Using professional artists and a distinctive combination of dance classes, performances, and educational materials, NDI fosters a love of the arts, a pride of achievement, and a curiosity about the world in all of the children that it touches. NDI 's programs help children understand the s -` hard work and dedication necessary to achieve success, a lesson they are able to apply to all aspects of their lives.Beginning in May of this year, d 'Amboise will hike the 2,157 mile Appalachian Trail, step by step, each step bringing more support for Arts Education to America's Children. Gathering pledges and contributions, Jacques will ensure that NDI will be funded into the millennium with a goal of training 2,000 teachers throughout the United States. Beginning in Maine in May, and ending in Georgia at the turn of the century, Jacques will teach classes in small towns and in big cities along the way bringing his special brand of inspiration to local children. Jacques d 'Amboise will tackle the challenging Appalachian trail step by step- just the way he teaches young people to dance. For further information about National Dance Institute contact: 594 Broadway, Room 805 New York, NY 10012 Tel. (212) 226-0083.