Teaching Philosophy
As director of dance at The Aaron Tolson Institute of Dance, Aaron Tolson leads the charge. He is a teacher and mentor to many. His philosophy on support and hard work has helped dancers achieve success and happiness in their careers.
Here are a few testimonials from former students on how he has influenced their careers and lives.
Lauren Barkman
Cast of Tangled on the Disney Cruise Line
"I've had the privilege of studying with Aaron Tolson for several years at The Boston Conservatory and I can confidently say that he is an exceptional teacher and mentor. Aaron has a unique ability to connect with his students and meet them where they are in their artistic journey. He’s able to tailor his instruction to their individual needs and pushes them past what they think they are capable of.
Each time I stepped into his class, I gained confidence in my abilities because of the inclusive and positive learning environment he was able to cultivate. His passion for his craft is contagious and that joy extends past dance itself.
Because of his guidance, my career has flourished and I have the skills, knowledge, and drive to approach each project with the dedication Aaron exemplifies each and every day. I’m beyond grateful for his mentorship and I implore everyone to seek opportunities to learn from him.”
Kaitlyn Frank
Broadway Performer
“Aaron Tolson is not only an expert in his field, but also an incredibly supportive and encouraging teacher! His positive spirit motivated me to do my best as well as challenged and pushed me to grow.
I was able to apply the tap skills he taught me to book Funny Girl on Broadway as well as My Fair Lady on Broadway, Newsies National Tour and White Christmas National Tour.
I am so grateful to have had Aaron as my tap teacher through my college years. I felt extremely prepared to enter the world of professional theatre and dance. “
Alexandra Frohlinger
Off Broadway Performer, Adjudicator, Choreographer, Actress
Aaron’s focus on technique, musicianship and the history of Tap Dance has influenced not only the way I tap, but how I approach all styles of dance. His enthusiasm and passion are contagious. I am forever grateful for his mentorship and would not be the dancer I am today without him!
Ramone Owens
Broadway Performer, Dance Teacher
“Aaron is a master teacher! I learned a variation of time steps from him my sophomore year of college. Everything that I’ve done in my twelve-year performance career has been based on the foundations of rhythm, tempo and style that he laid for me years ago.
He taught me what musicianship of the heart and feet looks like. I can’t thank him enough.”
Ashley Ruperto
Dance Teacher
“There is no one quite like Aaron Tolson. His positive approach to teaching really shaped who I was as a performer and now who I am as a teacher. When I graduated from the Boston Conservatory, I moved to New York City and had a successful tap dance career performing in shows like 42nd Street, The Producers, and The Will Rogers Follies to name a few.
I credit much of this wonderful experience to the skill and confidence gained from my training with Aaron. Currently, I teach dance and strive to emulate to my students the same amazing example I was fortunate enough to have from him.
I will forever be grateful to Aaron for nurturing my love of dance, and look forward to dancing with him in the future. St. A’s is so lucky to have such an incredible teacher and person!”
Sadiyah “Dyce” Stephens
Broadway Performer
“The minute I took my class with him [Aaron Tolson], I noticed 3 things.
1) The hoops were worth it, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
2) This is not a “follow the leader” dance class. Every step we did, he’d tell us about the history of it and the people who influenced it. These weren’t just steps to Aaron, Aaron is ‘people first’. By the end of the class Aaron knew our names, gave us nicknames, had inside jokes with us, and more importantly learned about us as individuals.
3) Which leads me to: this is who I want to spend my 4 years with. I don’t want to do a semester without him.”
Derek Taylor
Broadway Performer
“[Aaron Tolson is] One of the most genuine and talented humans around. A leader and a mentor for all that step into his class, and always willing to lend a hand. A true Jedi of his own craft.
No one more deserving of their own wing of dance at the collegiate level.
Continue to inspire!”