Pete Pierantozzi
Pronouns Used: He/Him/His
Hometown: Madison, Wisconsin
Major: Contemporary Dance
Describe your favorite Berklee experience so far.
My favorite Berklee experience so far has been getting to take class with the other dance majors. Every time I watch my peers move and create, I am reminded of how amazing it is to be at this school and to be constantly surrounded by inspiring, hardworking artists.
When you think about your favorite class so far, what is one example of why you enjoyed it?
One of my favorite classes so far was my Horton Technique class with Jim Viera. I loved this class because I consistently felt seen, challenged, valued, and artistically enriched. I also loved the unique choreography that we would use to approach the technique.
What is your favorite part about studying and living in Boston?
The liveliness of the city. There are so many places to go, things to do, and people to meet.
What is one piece of advice you would give to someone applying to Berklee College of Music or Boston Conservatory at Berklee?
One piece of advice I would give to applicants is to not shy away from the things that make them special. Oftentimes, in the arts, people want to achieve success by dancing/singing/playing/acting like others. When holding auditions, Berklee faculty don't want to see what they've seen before—they want to see you!
Where is your favorite place on campus?
The 003 dance studio, nicknamed "The Fishbowl." Especially at night, this studio is a great place to vibe.
Why did you choose Berklee?
When researching colleges, I loved how the Conservatory's dance curriculum was not set in stone, but rather allowed students to choose their own paths and form the educational and artistic experience that they wanted. Additionally, out of all the auditions I attended, I had the most fun at Berklee's because the faculty wanted to get to know me as an individual rather than just another number, which was so refreshing.
What are your plans for after graduation?
After graduation, my ultimate goal is to impact the world in a way that has never been done before, whether that be through a contemporary dance collective I form, commercial choreography I create, my love of Gaga methodology, or performance opportunities that come my way. Regardless of where dance takes me, I look forward to exploring the powerful and unique capabilities of art for the rest of my life.
What have you enjoyed most about the live shows you’ve been involved in at Berklee?
Performing at the Conservatory is such an amazing experience, and the passion and professionalism that goes into every live show never fails to blow me away. The thing I have enjoyed the most about the shows I have been a part of is the feeling I get while on the Conservatory's main stage. I am overwhelmed with gratitude and pride for my school and my friends dancing alongside me. There's nothing like it!
Where do you hope to perform this coming year?
I am very excited to perform on the main stage, and I hope to be able to dance in the 401 theater as well.
Your social media channel/web URL?
Instagram: @whoispeteanyway