Salsa Ithaca presents class offerings with professional instructors, including our resident artists from Cuba, Adolfo Castillo and Lisbet Lopez, and Sandra Tomás Roig of Latin Dance by Sandra. Walk-ins and new students are welcome in all classes, including series. See details below.
Description & Schedule
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Afro-Cuban Percussion
Instructor: Adolfo Castillo
Schedule: Every Monday 6-7:15pm, except 1st Monday of the month
Location: Foundation of Light, 391 Turkey Hill Rd, Ithaca NY
Cost: $15 per class
Description. In our beginner percussion classes, participants will learn drumming and percussion technique, drawing on traditional and contemporary Afro-Cuban rhythms. These rhythms are rooted in the traditions of the West African slaves brought to Cuba and the Caribbean starting in the 17th century, and continuing through most of the 19th century. Some of the rhythms we learn maintain close similarity to their African antecedents, while others are more uniquely Cuban, Haitian, and Caribbean, influenced by the mix of African cultures as well as indigenous islanders and Europeans.
Salsa in Partner with Rueda de Casino: Level 1 & 2
Description. Salsa with Rueda de Casino is a fun way to learn Salsa timing, repertoire, and lead-follow. In Rueda, dancers change partners in a Salsa “wheel,” while performing steps and combinations to the arrangement of a caller. Rueda allows students to dance with various partners in fluid motion, and in a relaxed setting. In our Level 1 series, we start in line format, then progress into single couple format, and at the end, introduce the circle (Rueda) format, which takes us into Level 2, where we add, review, and build Salsa technique and repertoire.
LEVEL 1: 6:20-7:20PM + 15 mins of practice
Level 1 is for new students and those seeking review. In this class, we teach a set of 20 steps needed to dance Salsa individually, as a single couple, and amongst multiple couples in a Rueda de Casino. These include what we call “The Scales of Salsa” & “The Octagon,” a set of turns and sequence drills, and the cross-body lead combinations “Dile Que No” and “Dile Que Si.”
LEVEL 2: 5:15-6:15PM
In Level 2, we review and refine Level 1 content, and begin Rueda de Casino with the lead-follow basic “Guapea,” and the partner change call of “Dame” (pronounced “da-me”). We then teach a set of standard Salsa turn patterns, and Cuban style combinations built off of the open break such as “Adios” and “Enchufle,” and integrate these moves into single partner and rueda formats.
Afro-Cuban Traditional & Folkloric Dance with Live Music
Description. Connect to the rich traditions of Afro-Caribbean rhythm. Move your body with passion and flow. Learn from accomplished professional dancers and carriers of Afro-Cuban culture. Join an inspired and welcoming community. No experience necessary. Class is for all levels. Get ready to move, play, and challenge yourself!
Beginner Bachata
Description. Bachata is a music and social dance form with origins in bolero, and made widely popular in the Dominican Republic. Its slow tempo, high pitch and pop creates a distinct sensual feel. Like Salsa, Bachata works off of a three-four step timing and relies on strong lead-follow connection. In this series, students will learn to recognize the classic 4/4 measure of Bachata, and build a foundational repertoire and techniques including lead-follow communication, timing, footwork, body movement, frame and posture.
Latin Dance with Sandra: 3 Series
Latin Dance Popurrí 5:15-6:15pm
In our popurrí series you’ll learn the four most popular Latin dances: Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, and Cha Cha Cha. Our fun choreographies will help you master basic steps, techniques, and rhythm.
Bachata Lady Styling 6:20-7:20pm
These classes prioritize grace, poise, and personal expression within the music and dance of Bachata. The emphasis is on developing confidence, flair, and the distinctive, stylized movements that characterize a feminine approach to dance.
Salsa Choreography 7:25-8:25pm
Join our Salsa Choreography class! Master the steps, feel the rhythm, and dance with confidence. Fun, energetic, and engaging. Let’s salsa!