El Taller Latino Americano 2710 Broadway, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10025
(212) 665-9460
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Salsa Dance Classes
NY Style Salsa/Mambo "On2"

Salsa Classes This salsa course is designed to help students at a beginner level understand the music and timing while developing the basic fundamentals and skills of dancing Salsa/Mambo "On2."

No prior dance experience or dance training required.

Learn the basics of Salsa/Mambo, including: turning technique, styling, musicality, shines (open footwork), body control, partnering skills (leading and following), and heighten the overall Latin social dancing experience. Great for those learning how to dance "On2" for the first time or interest in developing their foundations in the basics of Salsa/Mambo.

Every class will begin with a quick group warm-up and/or re-cap. Afterwards students will be introduced to a new "Shine" (open footwork) with a break down and drill for the first half of class. This will give students a chance to learn and practice new moves as well as review material they already know. For the second half of class we will split into partner work and continue with instruction in holds, frames, leading/following technique and turn sequences. Students are encouraged to ask questions throughout the class so they may better understand and apply the instructions being given.

WHAT TO BRING TO CLASS: A dance partner is not necessary as this class will be highly interactive and social. Students will meet new people and rotate from person to person during the partner work segments. Students are advised to bring a comfortable pair of shoes. Preferably shoes with leather or suede bottoms. A short sleeved t-shirt or tank top and comfortable pants are recommended. Bring a high level of energy, a positive attitude, and a smile.

What is dancing "On2"? The music we dance to is counted in 2 four beat measures (4/4 time). A "break step" is the step in which you change the direction of your momentum. When your break step falls on the second and sixth beat of the music, then you are dancing "On2". This is why we use the wording "On2" when describing the NY style salsa/mambo.

Where can I dance "On2"? The largest concentration of "On2" dancers is in New York City and New Jersey. There is a prominent subculture that takes dancing to a high level, and has fun doing it. However, the popularity of Salsa/Mambo "On2" has grown immensely over the years and there has been an increasingly high volume of students dancing "On2" across the globe. For example, California, Puerto Rico, Italy, Israel, Toronto, Chicago, DC, etc., all have largely popular Salsa/Mambo "On2" dance scenes. Most people find that once they get hooked to dancing "On2," its their method of choice.

Salsa Classes

Garry P. Portugal

In Garry's short professional dancing career, he has been able to dance both nationally and internationally. He has graced many stages across the country including one of the largest in the world − Madison Square Garden. His performance credits with Salsa superstars include Johnny Pacheco, Ismael Miranda, Cheo Feliciano, Eddie Palmieri, Jerry Rivera, La India, Eddie Santiago, Tito Rojas, Larry Harlow and his Latin Legends Band, and The Spanish Harlem Orchestra. In addition he has also had the opportunity to showcase his talents in musical theater and on national cable television.

Summer Schedule

Mondays and Wednesdays

6:30 to 7:30


Fall/Winter Schedule

Mondays and Wednesdays

Beginner 1: 6:30 to 7:30
Beginner 2: 7:30 to 8:30

$12 per class
$20 for 2 classes on the same day
$100 for 12 classes

Please pre-register as space is limited



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