Benjamin Harkarvy: A Person of Quality, Integrity, and Passion

David Briskin

Benjamin Harkarvy and David Briskin at a reception following the dance concerts at the Juilliard Theater in February. Photo by Nan Melville

There he was. Standing at the bottom of the escalator next to Alice Tully Hall. Arms open wide, a grin of delight across his face; his red fedora perched on that bald head at just the right rakish angle. Ben Harkarvy was on his way to what would, sadly, be his last rehearsal at Juilliard. He was going to do what he loved most: to observe, listen, and respond—the things which helped turn movement into dance, students into artists, and colleagues into friends.

Benjamin Harkarvy was a man of strong beliefs. He believed in the soul. He believed in the power of art to change how we looked at the world. Ben has always been a teacher—to his students, friends, and colleagues. He was a man of wisdom and passion. Nothing was inconsequential to him. He felt deeply and could be profoundly moved—whether by the shape of an outstretched hand bathed in light, or by the sound of the human voice raised in song. Sharing a meal after attending a concert with him was one of the great pleasures of being his friend.

Ben cared deeply about Juilliard—not only about the Dance Division, but about the Juilliard community as a whole. He spoke often about Juilliard's commitment to excellence and the importance of maintaining the highest artistic standards. He inspired everyone who worked with him to strive for excellence and, time and time again, under his gentle guidance, it was achieved. This is what made him happy. This is why he loved Juilliard.

While Ben worked with many companies during his long career, his legacy is not one of a particular time or place. It is one of people—dancers, choreographers, and directors all around the world whom he trained and encouraged. But, in truth, his influence is even greater. For Benjamin Harkarvy reminded each of us who knew and loved him that being a person of quality and integrity and passion was the greatest expression of the human spirit.

David Briskin has been conductor for the Juilliard Dance Division since 1993.