About
My business is about my students. As an extremely conscious teacher I make it my focus to figure out how the students learn best. I am extremely versatile and can handle different levels and bring everyone to a beautiful place in dancing. Whether it's a private lesson to learn a particular dance or wedding choreography for a large group Latin Connection Dance will your guide.
I love meeting different people who come to this point in their life admitting they have never learn to dance. You see that longing in their eyes and expression. I love taking that hope and making it into a reality. It's very difficult to explain to newcomers how much dancing will change their life. You will have new found confidence, expression, poise, coordination, conversation and dance skills. I get the most joy out of seeing my students progress and reach their dance goals.
Reviews
mel M.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I take time to chat with students and make sure we are a good fit. I explain all the details of how long the lessons are how the lessons will be structured and scheduling. We make sure we have a plan and as I get to know the students we design a more specific plan for their needs and skill sets
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been dancing since the age of 4 and grew up in Los Angeles where I had a lot of opportunities to join Studios, choreographers and other dancers. I am educated in ballet, jazz, hip hop, modern, Latin and Ballroom styles.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
The first introductory lesson is $50 per hour. I do not do 50-minute hours. The next lesson is $90 per hour. If you take a package of 5 it is $400 making it $80/lesson. If you take a package of 10 it is $750 per lesson. Depending on where you live in proximity to Oakland we can either meet at a ballroom or at your home or office space if agreed upon. The ballrooms will charge $15 per hour for shared space. If I travel to your home or office there may be a $5 to $15 travel fee applied.
How did you get started teaching?
I've been around a lot of dance studios and been on competitive teams. I worked with several instructors in LA to learn how to teach. I've been teaching for 22 years.
What types of students have you worked with?
All types of students who have no experience, some were partially handicapped, some have injuries or other exceptions. I've taught children, teenagers adults. Some of my students are business professionals and working adults who have not had the chance in their life to dance yet . Many people come to dancing looking for a partner . I have taught all around the world on cruises as well.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Last Saturday night at space 550 in San Francisco I taught the salsa lesson and got to impart a lot of my special technique advice to new students. Space 550 is the premiere salsa club in the Bay Area.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure you get someone who is patient. You do not want to hire someone who gives 50 minute hours either. Be aware if they have students back-to-back that you get all your time you paid for.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Let the teacher know if you have experience or not. Let the teacher know if you have a frenetic or high vibration personality or are more low-key. Sometimes this helps with the learning process. And it also helps to set reasonable goals if there is a wedding or performance to produce.