Mary Ann Holmes
Supervisor of Dance & Movement
Since the age of 3, dance and movement have been major focus of Mary Ann's life. A graduate of Westfield State University, she continued her studies in dance while obtaining a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, and later a Master's in Special Education. After graduating Mary Ann served as SPED Educator/Inclusion Specialist in the Easthampton, Northampton, and Hampshire Regional school districts.
Coming to BHMA 12 years ago was a dream come true. She found a place where she could combine all her interest, passions, education, and talents. Mary Ann started at BHMA by teaching one class, one student each week. Since then, she has helped blossom the music and movement program into many more individual lessons and classes including dance ensembles, musical theater, yoga, Zumba, and the Vocational Dance group "SHINE'. Mary Ann uses movement to help activate and create new neuropathways in the brain, while incorporating a variety of physical motor skills that boost coordination and spatial awareness. Mary Ann continues to further her education by continuously attending workshops and conferences throughout the year. She currently holds certifications in Aerobics, Pilates, Kripalu Yoga, Shake Your Soul, and Life Coaching. She has also served in the past as a licensed Director and Instructor of Music Together for Families. In addition, she has had the extreme pleasure as serving for 8 years as the Choreographer for Amherst Leisure Services Community Theater, as well as for PVPA.
Mary Ann also holds fond memories of community, in owning and directing her private studio of 23 years, The Holmes Studio of Dance, Music, and Wellness. If you still see her in the afterhours of BHMA, you'll find her teaching private and group classes in Dance, Yoga, Reiki Healing Arts and Life coaching.
Throughout all facets of her work Mary Ann's goal is to promote and help instill self-confidence and pride, perseverance and respect for oneself and others.