Skip to content

Able Quote by George Balanchine

“One is born to be a dancer. No teacher can work miracles, nor will years of training make a good dancer of an untalented pupil. One may be able to acquire a certain technical facility, but no one can ever 'acquire an exceptional talent.' I have never prided myself on having an unusually gifted…” quote by George Balanchine
Download Open image
“One is born to be a dancer. No teacher can work miracles, nor will years of training make a good dancer of an untalented pupil. One may be able to acquire a certain technical facility, but no one can ever 'acquire an exceptional talent.' I have never prided myself on having an unusually gifted pupil. A Pavlova is no one's pupil but God's.”

George Balanchine

About This Quote

Talent is innate; training can refine skill but cannot create brilliance where none exists.

In simple terms: Talent is innate, training refines.

Key Takeaway

Recognize natural gifts.

Themes

talent training limitations

Mood

analytical inspirational

Type

philosophical advice

When to use this quote

  • dance education
  • career counseling
  • team building
  • creative projects

Key Concepts

nature vs nurture artistic excellence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you nurture talent without overtraining?
  • What role does innate ability play in your field?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on training may ignore innate ability.

2.2 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by George Balanchine

Explore all 42 George Balanchine quotes

More Able quotes

Browse all 17,257 Able quotes