About
Ballroom dancing has absolutely transformed my life. I love sharing the joy of ballroom/partner dancing with people of any level. I am passionate about finding ways that power of learning how to dance can be channeled to fulfilling the specific goals and dreams of my students.
I've been dancing for 20 years and teaching for over 10. I am a world champion dancer in the international latin style of ballroom and am one of the few world class dancers who still enjoys dancing for fun and attends social dancing events to meet new people and dance with students and friends.
I'd love to help you make a meaningful impact on your life by experiencing the joy of ballroom/partner dancing. Whether it be ballroom, salsa, swing, tango or any other form of partner dance, I'd be happy to help you live your dance dream!
I love helping my students experience the joy that dancing can bring to their lives. I love it when my students experience the many benefits learning how to dance can offer like getting in better shape, increasing their confidence and poise, making them approach their days with a more positive attitude and feeling of connection.
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Abbey J.
Bernadette H.
Hermelinda A.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I spend a few minutes or longer if necessary having a conversation about the students specific goals. Then if we both decide that we are a good fit for each other, I usually have an introductory lesson where the number one goal is to have them experience the joy of ballroom/partner dancing. Then if both of us are feeling good about continuing, we put together a plan based on the students goals and desired focus.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I've been dancing for 20 years. I've co-written a book on the ballroom dance industry called the Insider's Guide to the World of Ballroom Dancing. During my 20 years of dancing and 10 years of teaching, I've constantly prioritized my on-going training attending workshops, camps, and taking private lesson to improve my own dancing and ability to teach.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Lessons are $85 for 45 minute private lesson. Blocks of 10 lessons can be purchased in advance for $700.
How did you get started teaching?
Around 2010, I was working as a dance host for a local ballroom in the bay area. I had for many years prior received inquiries from potential students about teaching dance but always declined because I had another full time job. Then one student in particular refuse to stop inquiring until I agreed to teach her. When I started, I found I not only enjoyed teaching but also was uniquely skilled as a teacher.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with all types of students from brand new beginning couples looking to learn a dance for their wedding to social dancers looking to improve their skills for dance parties, to serious commited dancers looking to create a performance piece or improve for competition.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I just recently was teaching a newer couple the waltz. After teaching them a basic pattern, one of my students asked for something new. I taught her a step that we call "passing twinkles" and she exclaimed, "Oh my God, it feels like I'm flying." I've had so many moments of joy like these over the years but this one just happened so it is fresh in my mind!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Remember that you are the customer, and that you have the right to try different instructors until you find the right fit. Ballroom dancing can be an intimate activity and often instructors will use this connection to obligate a student to continue taking lessons even when they are not a good fit. Treat dance lessons like any other business. If you are not happy, ask for what you want and if the teacher cannot deliver, try someone else.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Clarify what it is you really want out of your journey learning how to dance? Are you interested in exercise, fun, meeting new people, being in the spotlight, stimulating your mind and body, of self development? All of these things can be accomplished through studying partner/ballroom dancing but if the student identifies their personal focus, the lessons can be given in a way to deliver maximum benefit.