Recognition Evening: ESBQ honors its long-serving employees
Each year, the École supérieure de ballet du Québec (ESBQ) holds a recognition cocktail party to honor the involvement and contribution of the members of the ESBQ and its Foundation's boards of directors.
In the special context of the ESBQ's 60th anniversary, the 2026 edition took on a very special significance: six employees with more than 30 years of service were honored!
The Recognition Evening is an opportunity to take the time to thank those who voluntarily support the mission of the École supérieure, both on a daily basis and in the long term. Through their expertise, availability, and sense of responsibility, the members of the boards of directors of the ESBQ and its Foundation play an essential role in the sustainability and development of the institution.
This evening reminds us of a simple idea: the transmission of dance relies on a human chain, made up of listening, rigor, know-how, and collaboration.
This year, the ESBQ took advantage of the recognition cocktail party to honor six employees—including five pianists—who have been working at the institution for over 30 years. Their long-standing commitment illustrates the strength of a team that supports students with sensitivity and professionalism, year after year.
In the spotlight
• Margarita Aouslender, pianist – employed since January 1996
• Isabelle Bruneau, pianist – employed since September 1980
• Elaine Gaertner, pianist, head of pianists and musical accompaniment – employed since September 1986
• Martin Plante, pianist – employed since July 1986
• Danielle Plamondon, pianist – employed since September 1989
• Christine Williams, associate director of education and regional partnerships – employed since September 1985
The tribute paid to five pianists highlights the importance of musical accompaniment in classical dance training. In the studio, music structures the work, supports listening, musicality, and precision of movement. It also helps to create a stimulating, coherent, and deeply vibrant learning environment.
Among those honored, Elaine Gaertner, head of pianists and music education, particularly embodies this dimension. In addition to her mastery of the piano, she has trained pianists from around the world to accompany ballet classes!
The ESBQ also recognized the commitment of Christine Williams, whose expertise helps structure teaching and promote regional partnerships. An artist, teacher, rehearsal coach, examiner, and educator with a long track record, she has played a particularly influential role in passing on the skills needed to teach classical dance. In addition to the large number of dance teachers she has helped to obtain a diploma, we should also highlight her key role in their rehearsals of Les Grands Ballets Canadiens' The Nutcracker, where she has accompanied thousands of children since 1984.
In the year that ESBQ celebrates 60 years of training and knowledge transfer, this recognition of long-serving staff highlights what underpins excellence on a daily basis: solid career paths, expertise built up over time, and loyalty that spans generations.
Did you know that the École supérieure has a dedicated team of nearly 100 people?