Meaning: Merce Cunningham was a renowned American dancer and choreographer known for his avant-garde approach to modern dance. The quote, "I was told that I had to give grades to the students, which I wasn't particularly interested in doing," reflects Cunningham's resistance to the traditional educational system and his focus on artistic expression over formal assessment.

In the world of dance, where creativity and individuality are paramount, the concept of assigning grades can be seen as antithetical to the philosophy of many artists. Cunningham's reluctance to give grades to his students suggests a desire to prioritize the development of their artistic abilities and personal growth over the imposition of external evaluations.

Cunningham's approach to dance education was deeply influenced by his own experiences as a dancer and choreographer. Throughout his career, he sought to challenge conventional norms and push the boundaries of what was considered possible in the realm of dance. This included reimagining the role of the dancer, the relationship between movement and music, and the dynamics of space and time within performances.

In the context of traditional educational institutions, grading systems are often used as a means of quantifying and evaluating students' progress. However, Cunningham's quote suggests a reluctance to reduce the complex and multifaceted nature of artistic expression to a simple letter or number. Instead, he seemed to value a more holistic approach to teaching and learning, one that prioritized creativity, experimentation, and the cultivation of an individual's unique artistic voice.

It's important to note that Cunningham's perspective on grading does not necessarily imply a dismissal of feedback or critique. Rather, it speaks to a desire to engage with students in a way that fosters their creative potential without the constraints of a rigid grading system. This aligns with his broader artistic philosophy, which emphasized the exploration of new possibilities and the rejection of established conventions.

In the realm of dance education, Cunningham's approach has had a lasting impact, inspiring generations of dancers and educators to rethink the ways in which they assess and support the development of young artists. By prioritizing artistic exploration and personal growth over the assignment of grades, Cunningham's philosophy encourages a more inclusive and nurturing environment for aspiring dancers to thrive and express themselves.

Ultimately, Cunningham's quote serves as a reminder of the importance of cultivating an environment that values artistic expression and individual growth. By challenging the traditional notions of assessment and grading, he encourages us to consider alternative approaches that prioritize the development of creativity and personal expression in the pursuit of artistic excellence.