Eugene Modern Dance

Contemporary Dance is a broad term describing the evolution of modern and post modern dance into several strands of dance styles developed by choreographers in the end of the 20 th century. This form generally aims to democratize dance practice and allow for individual freedom of expression.

Modern dance was born in opposition to the formal conventions and elitism in classical ballet. The two main strands of modern dance stem from Germany, and the USA in the mid twentieth century. German modern dance developed as theatrical form embracing improvisation, introspection, and set design.

Classes explore the basic concepts of choreography (shape, space, quality and time/rhythm), to create an individual/solo piece. Direction and encouragement will be offered throughout the creation of the piece. Students will be encouraged to find their own content and expression. Option to perform dance piece for family and friends. Free rehearsal space outside of class. Open to all levels.

Classes offer exercises that draw from Gilbert (originally created exercises for injured ballet dancers) and Pilates. The classes encourage a meditative approach by using imagery and breathing to accomplish your goals. Open to all levels.

Classes offer conditioning exercises based on pre-Pilates Gilbert Technique (created for the Joffrey Ballet for injured ballet dancers). This will lead to simple dance movements performed first in place, then moving across the floor. Inspiring music will motivate movement.

Classes offer inspired dance combinations that build over time. They draw from Cunnigham, Limon and Graham techniques. Some experience necessary.

Classes offer exercises and guided movements that will build strength, flexibility, coordination and rhythm. These exercises lead to dance combinations that promote movement memory, spacial awareness, use of breath, balance, flexibility, strength and joy of movement. No experience necessary.

Learn the art of creating movement and dance pieces in the Choreography classes available at the studio.

Explore the spontaneity and creativity of dance through Improvisation classes offered at this inspiring studio.

This studio offers Dance for Seniors, providing a welcoming environment for older adults to engage in the art of dance.

The Art of Dance is studied at this studio. Dance Technique is a core offering for those interested in developing their skills.

Instructor for the New York Public Schools from 1962-1964. This involved teaching dance to students in public schools.

Instructor at the Herbert Berghof Actors Studio in New York City from 1963-1974. This provided movement training for actors.

Instructor at Cooper Union College in New York from 1965-1975. This offered dance instruction as part of the college curriculum.

Guest Artist at New York University in 1968. This involved special lectures or workshops.

Guest Artist at the University of Wisconsin in 1969. This involved special lectures or workshops.

Guest Artist at the William Paterson College in New Jersey in 1970. This involved teaching or performing for students.

Instructor at the Don Farnsworth Dance School in New York City from 1971-1972. This was a professional dance school.

Instructor at the Papakonstantis Dance School in New York City in 1972. This was a professional dance school.

Founder, Director and Instructor for the Peggy Soomil Dance Studio in New York City from 1972-1976. This studio offered various dance classes.

Instructor for the Acting Department at The Juilliard School in New York City from 1975-1976. This role provided movement training for actors.

Artistic Director of the Fairmount Dance Theater at the Fairmount School for the Performing Arts in Cleveland, Ohio from 1976-1977. This included directing the theater and performing own works.

Guest Artist at the University of Colorado in Boulder, Colorado from 1977-1979. This involved giving guest lectures or master classes.

Guest Artist at the University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa in 1979. This involved special workshops or performances.

Shared the Directorship and was Assistant Professor at Western Washington University in Bellingham, WA. from 1980-1981. This involved both administrative and teaching duties.

Assistant Professor at Oregon State University in Corvallis, OR from 1981-1982. This was a faculty position teaching dance.

Instructor for Student Health Services at UCLA from 1982-1984. This program likely focused on movement and well-being.

Teaching assistant at UCLA from 1983-1984. This role involved assisting professors with teaching duties.

Instructor for The Bethune Ballet / Dance Outreach Program in L.A (disabled children) from 1984-1989. This specialized dance program was for disabled children.

Instructor for “The Bethune Ballet / Step Up on 2nd Street” in L.A. from 1985-1987. This offered dance instruction and programs.

Instructor at the University of California in L.A. from 1985-1987. This involved teaching dance at a university level.

Instructor at Cowan Elementary School and Parent Elementary School in L.A. from 1990-1991. This involved teaching dance to elementary school students.

Instructor at The Jewish Community Center and Montessori School in L.A. from 1990-1991. This offered dance instruction in a community setting.

Instructor at College Hill Montessori School in Eugene, OR (3-6 yrs.) from 1992-2000. This focused on early childhood dance education.

Instructor in her own studio in Eugene, OR from 1992-2021. This involved teaching dance to students of various ages and levels.

Eugene Modern Dance performs original works choreographed by Teens and Adults in Peggy’s Dance Studio, Eugene OR. This includes a variety of modern dance pieces.

Ballet, Tap, Jazz dance classes are offered at The Juilliard School in New York City. This is a professional training program for dancers.

She also studied ballet with Alfredo Corvino (Ceccetti (Italian) technique, and other professionals such as Anthony Tudor and Margaret Black.

Peggy Soomil offers a classical and rich approach to modern dance. She has studied and been influenced by major players in the field.

Instructor at El Camino College Arts Conservatory Program in L.A. from 1990-1991. This program provided intensive arts training.

Participate in Workshops in Self Enrichment, designed to foster personal growth through artistic expression and dance.

Instructor of the Choreographers’ Workshop at Continuing Education, Loyola Marymount University (two 10 week sessions) from 1988-1989. This focused on developing choreography skills.