Barns - Albany, NY area

[kbennett322]

Hello all,
I’m considering relocation to the Albany area for work - i have no idea where to even start when it comes to looking for a barn for my beast. So, I thought that The COTHers may be able to point me in the right direction.

I’m an AA. My gelding and I are lower level dressage enthusiasts. Quality care and trustworthy barn staff are of the utmost importance. I also like access to an onsite pro, but prefer a more relaxed environment, i.e., we are enjoying the journey and having fun along the way and do not have very high ambitions for showing. I want to take lessons and continuously improve, but do not like an environment where there is pressure.
I know that sounds strange for me to point out, but too many trainers have expectations for clients showing, etc.

All day t/o, access to trails, and an indoor are high on our list of wants. Any input is appreciated! Thanks!

[GRPDressage]

Kbennett322:
I am from the Albany area but I have recently moved away for work. Before I left I boarded at Margie Hutchinson’s farm Larkin’ Hill:
http://www.larkinhill.com/page/page/8715144.htm
Margie is a well respected eventing trainer that also teaches lower level dressage. Her barn has EXCELLENT care and her staff is knowledgeable and friendly. She has an on-site XC course which was a great place to ride out with my dressage horse. Also has an indoor and all day T/O. i CANNOT say enough good things about Margie.

I have never ridden with her, but Laura Fay has always been friendly to me at shows and has good reviews: http://www.aeringgreen.com/

Good luck!

[kbennett322]

Thanks so much!

[SomedaySoon]

Larkin Hill is great, it’s just south in Old Chatham. If you are on FB you should join the Capital District Horse Source group. There are always lots of postings on barn recommendations.

[flynride]

When I lived in the area, I trained with Emily Gershberg Wyman and her brother, Adam Gershberg, at Apple Hill in Claverack (Hudson). Both are USDF-certified instructors, and they are excellent. Lovely farm, excellent care. They are low-key, no-drama people with high standards – a great combo for dressage.
https://www.facebook.com/applehilldressage/timeline

If you contact them, feel free to use my name. Jennifer Bryant

[boosma47]

Both mentioned are highly reputable and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend either. For a low key instructor who focuses on a more classical philosophy, I recommend Tess Meyer who teaches out of Chestnut Ridge Farm in Center Cambridge NY, north east of Albany. It is a meticulous facility surrounded by breathtaking farm land. Tess is a certified Alexander practitioner, among other things, is very knowledgeable, encouraging and correct.Biomechanics and softness and, of course, kindness characterize her lessons.
PM me if you want her contact info.