Private Coaching Program

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Melinda Neal is a true ballet professional, an incredible mentor for my teenage daughter and skillful in knowing what each dancer needs to excel.  Grace has been dancing with Ms. Melinda for over five years.  Ms. Melinda skillfully prepared Grace for a summer dance intensive audition three years ago and Grace was awarded a position in the program. My daughter’s relationship with Ms. Melinda has been a positive and transformational one.  Three years ago, Grace was diagnosed with a genetic connective tissue disorder called Ehlers-Danlos.  While this disorder makes Grace very flexible and a beautiful dancer, it has caused issues with her back and right hip.  Through private coaching with Ms. Melinda, Grace fully recovered from back surgery and returned to ballet - her passion.  Grace will have hip surgery this November, so Ms. Melinda has created Pilates reformer and strength training routines, so Grace can remain in shape and have a quicker recovery. Grace has learned a lot about resilience and recovery from Ms. Melinda who has successfully overcome her own injuries to have a long professional career.  Our family is very fortunate to have Ms. Melinda and MCD in our lives!  We are forever grateful to her.  

Whitney Bardwick

daughter Grace

Former MCD Student 

Pre-Med Tulane student 

"Melinda is a rare teacher.  She offers disciplined, classical ballet training with an expert eye for proper technique.  Melinda offers a program with a clear syllabus that provides a measurable progression that really motivates dancers.  With a long and successful professional resume, Melinda serves as a role model and valuable resource.  My daughter has taken classes with Melinda since she was in third grade (now in middle school and en pointe) and is constantly complimented by other instructors on her technique.  I attribute this to Melinda's ability to give corrections in a kind and genuine way that students respond to quickly and retain.  We are thankful to call Melinda a mentor and a friend."

Holly Nissalke 

daughter Caroline

Former Marin Ballet student current Ballet West student

"Ms. Melinda is one of the most influential ballet teachers I have worked with. She pushes, motivates, and supports me through my journey with ballet. Each day she inspires me to stay positive and be the strongest I can be.

She cares not only about the physical health and performance of her students but also their mental state as she takes into account teaching the dancer holistically. I am so grateful to have met and worked with Ms. Melinda and I definitely would not be where I am without her!"

Ashley Dubord 

Discount Dance Ambassador

Former San Francisco Ballet Student

Pre- Med UC Berkeley Student  

"Tessa had been taking dance since she was very young. She always loved dance, but it wasn't until she met Melinda that her passion for dance, and ballet in particular, really ignited. Melinda's expertise and years of experience dancing, coupled with her gift for coaching really influenced Tessa to want to become a better dancer and to reach new levels. Melinda is a dedicated and patient mentor, and really impacted our daughter's goals and love for dance. Thank you Melinda!!"

Katie Ulvestad 

daughter Tessa

Former San Francisco Ballet student 

My daughter Sadie was recovering from a knee injury and looking for a new studio to continue pursuing her ballet career.  Luckily for us, Melinda Neal opened a studio in Marin.  Her beautifully remodeled studio is in a central location offering a concise program for all dancers.  Sadie is healthier, more inspired than ever, and excelling on a whole new level. Melinda cares not only for the student’s professional progression, but also their personal growth.  The students work hard because they are happy to be there working with her.  Melinda knows how to get the best work out of them in a positive, uplifting manner.  Melinda is one of those rare teachers who not only has an impressive resume and credentials, but she works intuitively with each student.  This allows the dancers to be themselves and have pride in their work.  Sadie is blossoming at Marin Conservatory.  She is a stronger and more confident dancer and person, thanks to having Melinda as teacher and coach.  Much love to Melinda and the Conservatory!

Diane Mateo 

daughter Sadie

Former MCD student 

Former San Francisco Ballet and City Ballet student