Learning Salsa together
Read about learning Salsa as a couple, including leading, following and practising together.
PRIVATE LESSONS WITH DOMINIC BOYER
Salsa Dance Lessons in Vancouver
I teach private Salsa lessons for one or two people at my studio in Mount Pleasant, Vancouver. You can come on your own or with a partner.
Where would you like to begin?
New to Salsa
No experience necessary. You'll learn the basic steps and practise dancing to the music. As you become familiar with the dance, we'll add turns and other movements.
Already dancing
If you already dance Salsa, we can build on what you've learned. Lessons can focus on technique, musicality or particular steps and combinations you'd like to work on.
How I teach Salsa
I pay attention to how you learn. For some students, an explanation helps; for others, it makes more sense to see the movement or try it several times. I adjust my teaching as we go.
Alongside the steps, we work on timing and dancing with a partner. You can learn to lead or follow. There is time to practise, ask questions and go over movements again.
“Going from 0 to being able to salsa was immensely enjoyable with Dominic. … the individualized dance lessons helped me improve more quickly.”
Dancing Salsa together
In social Salsa, you and your partner make up the dance as you go. You can dance a whole song with just a few steps, adding turns as you learn them. Sometimes you let go of hands for a little footwork, then dance together again. The music ranges from energetic songs to softer, romantic ones.
Practising between lessons
A little practice between lessons helps you get used to what you've learned. Try a step or turn a few times, then practise it to music. We can go over it again in your next lesson.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Your first Salsa lesson
Limited Introductory Lesson
$50 + GST
55 minutes for one or two people.
For new students, subject to availability.
You don't need to buy a package to take your first lesson. If you'd like to continue, I'll explain the options and prices before you decide.
Packages never expire, are transferable and are non-refundable. Cancellations require 36 hours' notice.
How to book
- Send me a message. Tell me whether you're coming alone or with a partner, what you'd like to learn and when you're usually available.
- I'll reply personally. We can talk through your questions and arrange a time for your lesson.
- Come to the studio. We'll start dancing and take time to work through the steps together.
5 W 4th Ave, Unit 214
Vancouver, BC V5Y 1G2
Questions about Salsa lessons
Do I need a partner?
No. Private lessons are for one or two people. You can come on your own or bring a partner.
Can I learn if I have trouble with rhythm?
Yes. Learning to hear the beat and move with the music is part of the lesson. We'll take time to practise it along with the steps.
What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that stay securely on your feet. If you're unsure whether your shoes are suitable for dancing, ask me before the lesson. Bring a favourite song if there's one you'd like to work with.
How many lessons will I need?
There isn't a fixed number. It depends on your experience, what you'd like to learn and how the lessons progress. We can discuss continuing lessons after your first visit.
Salsa’s history
Salsa grew from Afro-Cuban music and dance, including son and mambo. These styles brought together African rhythms and Spanish musical traditions. Cuban and Puerto Rican musicians later developed the music in New York, where jazz was another influence.
In the 1960s and 1970s, singers such as Celia Cruz and Héctor Lavoe helped bring Salsa to audiences around the world. Fania Records played a big part through its recordings and concerts. Today, Salsa includes several dance styles, with distinct traditions in Cuba, Colombia, New York and elsewhere.
More about learning to dance
Do I Need Rhythm to Dance? Not Really
How listening and practice help you learn to dance with the music.
Get in touch
Tell me what you'd like to learn, or ask a question about the lessons. I'll reply personally.