Neophyte

neophyte \NEE-uh-fyt\, noun:
1. A new convert or proselyte.
2. A novice; a beginner in anything.

I was a complete neophyte and knew nothing about the choreographic process, but seeing the steps pour out of this man was a revelation.
-- Edward Villella, "Remembering Balanchine as the Boss", New York Times, January 26, 1992