Who Is Steffi Nossen?

Steffi Nossen, a passionate pioneer, paves the way for the future of modern dance.

A native of Berlin, Steffi Nossen was born in 1905 and began ballet at age three. Influenced by modern dance pioneers such as Mary Wigman and Rudolph von Laban, she eagerly embraced the new dance form. Steffi’s passion for dance and movement education led her to establish a college to train dance instructors. The school became officially recognized and certified, awarding diplomas to teach the STEFFI NOSSEN METHOD.

In 1935, Steffi came to the United States and settled in Larchmont, New York. She established SNSD two years later, built upon her conviction that the experience of dance should be a part of every person’s life. Steffi was closely associated with the great pioneers of American modern dance such as Ted Shawn, Ruth St. Denis and Alvin Ailey. Jess Meeker, a composer and accompanist for Ted Shawn and his Men Dancers, was the school’s Music Director. Mark Morris set a piece for the Steffi Nossen Dance Company and Norman Walker taught Master Classes.

Steffi Nossen has made significant contributions to the rich history of American modern dance and her legacy continues to positively influence the art form. Her carefully developed curriculum has informed the creative and artistic development of countless dancers over the generations, many of which have gone on to successful careers in dance. More than 30 years after Steffi’s death, the school continues to carry on her educational vision, unique teaching method and love for dance.