About
I started dancing at 4 years old. I attended Booker T. Washington High School for the performing and visual arts. I discovered ballroom and latin dance shortly after graduation and knew immediately it was for me. I have been teaching competitive and social dance now for over 29 years. I am certified through my masters level in ballroom, latin and CW dance. Throughout my career I have had the privilege of competing and teaching students from beginner level to advanced. I also love working with couples wanting to learn social dance for fun. In addition, I enjoy working with couples who are getting married and looking for that special wedding dance. What I truly love about teaching is figuring out unique ways in which each student learns best. I love watching my students grow in their confidence on the floor and believe that anyone can learn to dance with the right instructor.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I first start working with new student by evaluating the dances they are interested in learning, their dancing goals and the timeline they have allowed for learning. Based on that information, I develop a learning plan for them. I typically like to stick to no more than 2 dances. We start with the very basic steps and work from their. Everything is catered to the individuals style of learning and the time and goals they have.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I first started dancing in jazz and modern and competed as a soloist. At 16 I was trained in ballroom, latin and country western with Arthur Murray dance studios. After 6 years there I started teaching on my own. I have been teaching now 29 years. I am certified through both Arthur Murray and DVIDA and am a member of the NDCA. I co-own a large dance competition that has been going strong for 30 years now. I have earned the highest level of certifications and continue to learn and grow as a dancer and a teacher.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $50 per hour online, and $70 in the studio or the client's home.
How did you get started teaching?
I started at Arthur Murrays when I was 16.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all types of student. I have had the pleasure of working with world champion country students, ballroom student, couple looking for social dance and also wedding couples. I have also taught students who have had serious health issues and were looking to get stronger.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I always love working with my wedding couples! I just choreogrpahed a great swing routine for a couple getting married and they loved the experience! Their guests gave them a standing ovation :)
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would say to make sure you find someone who has experience! There are so many teachers out there that have just gotten out of training. Don't be deterred by a teacher charging a bit more. In the long run, if you find a competent and experienced teacher, you will not need as many lessons and will end up spending less. You will also have better technique and an overall better feel to your dancing.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
How much time are you willing to give your learning? How much are you willing to spend? Have you thought about where you will use your dancing? This will help to figure out the dances that will fit the best.