About
I am a competitive ballroom dancer. I have a podcast about the aging dancer and all of the ins and outs of competitions. Instruction with me whether it be in Zumba or ballroom is intense. I like to keep the energy up but I will say that most of my students have been over 40 and enjoyed it very much.
I enjoy seeing the smiles on peoples faces when they feel like they've acheived something. Helping people reach their daily goals as well as they're dance goals is what it's all about.
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JD A.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
For Zumba, we will have new students sign a liability form and as soon as everyone shows we will introduce them and begin the class.
For dance lessons or classes, I will ask your dance goals and access your level of dance. Then we can move forward with the dances you like best at the first level. If you are certified from a different teacher at a higher level, please bring the cerificate and we will start there.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have 3 years of competitive ballroom dance training. I've been in dance teacher training since April 2021. I have 5 years of training in Salsa. 2 years of training in Ballet Folklorico. I did go to college off and on for dance where I learned beginning ballet, jazz, and modern dance. My first few years in dance as a child were in hip hop. I spent most of my dancing days in hip hop and funk. I do not have a favorite dance. I started in ballroom because I was fascinated with WDSF on YouTube. I do not teach WDSF. I have trained in WDC and WDO. I teach DVIDA and have extensive knowledge in other syllabi. I watched every day and practiced by myself at home before I decided to take lessons. If that sounds familiar than you're in the right place.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
For virtual classes, the first class is $5 and it is $20 for 45 minutes thereafter. For private lessons $60. For couples, it is $80. If you have a camera or a phone and tripod, I do allow you to take video as long as you do not post a whole lesson. I also give dance consultations. If you are not sure where you need to start or who to turn to after a bad experience or where the best teachers are in the city for you specific needs. Consultations are $20. I do not get paid to advertise or promote anyone else. My recommendations are based on personal experience at different levels of dance.
How did you get started teaching?
I started dancing ballroom because I wanted to teach. I actaully thought that being a student would give me the advantage to get the job. Unfortunately, that isn't the way it works in all studios. They don't really like the idea of losing a paying student regardless of your level of dance. So, I decided to enter a teacher training course and go independent. My phylosophy as a teacher is to support and help you exceed your own expectations.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with students from all over the world and mainly people who just want to learn social dancing and lose weight. If you are at a higher level of dance, I could definitely offer my knowledge of the dance scene in Sacramento and help you get the training you are looking for. Consultations are $20 for 1 hour.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I love all of the events. I often go to ballroom events for different studios and performances for dance teams just to observe. Competitions are probably my absolute favorite events. Sometimes I'll go just to spectate.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I give dance consultations more specifically in ballroom. I will tell you what you need to ask and what you need to know. I'd love to help you along your way.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
I would ask about their experience. How long they've been dancing is not the only thing you should be looking for and the questions you should ask depends really on your goals as a dancer. It also depends on your personal way of learning. There are different styles of teaching as well as different philosphies. I offer consultations so you don't have to waste a year with a teacher or a string of teachers that are not trained, qualified or willing to give you the experience you expected.