Salsa Ithaca presents weekly classes, series, and workshops with professional, guest, and new instructors, including: resident artists from Cuba, Adolfo Castillo and Lisbet López, line dance instructors Becky Sydney and Loretta Darling, Hip Hop instructor G-Quan Booker, and director Michael Ristorucci.
Current Schedule
Policies & Attire
• Afro-Cuban Percussion: no experience necessary, all levels and drop-in welcome; own instrument not necessary and recommended for continuing students.
• Afro-Cuban Dance: no experience necessary, all levels and drop-in welcome.
• Salsa Casino and Bachata: no partner necessary; new students begin in Level 1, or higher with prior instructor or admin permission; drop-in welcome through second week, and in third and after with instructor or admin permission.
• Attire: dress comfortably for all classes and bring water bottle. When dancing in shoes, wear fitted light shoes, flats, dance sneakers/shoes, or worn sneakers, with low-to-medium level grip. No loose or clunky sandals, flip flops, or open-toed shoes. Heels above 1/4″ in partner dance require instructor permission. Afro-Cuban dance is conducted in bare feet; traditional skirts are recommended for women but not required, and are made available to all.
• Minimums: registration minimums must be met for some series to move forward; registered students are notified if a class is cancelled; those who prepaid will be reimbursed.
• Discounts: punch card discounts are available and not combinable with series discount; sliding scale or PWYC (Pay What You Can) is available by arrangement. We will not turn anyone away for lack of funds.
• First Time Students: please pay in advance, options available in registration form. Registration for class is an expectation of payment.
• Contact Us: for questions and arrangements, message us by text or WhatsApp at 607-375-7090, or email info@salsaithaca.com.
Classes
Afro-Cuban Percussion
Instructor: Adolfo Castillo
Schedule: Every Monday 6-7:15pm
Location: Foundation of Light, 391 Turkey Hill Rd, Ithaca NY. 1st Mondays of the month at FoL Schoolhouse, 399 Turkey Hill Rd, Ithaca NY.
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.
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!
Minimum 6 students.
Salsa Casino
Level 1: March 4 Week Series: Wednesdays 6:30-7:30pm on March 11th, 18th, 25th, April 1st
This series introduces Casino, aka Cuban Salsa, preparing new and experienced dancers alike for a journey into one of the world’s most dynamic social dances. The areas of focus are: 1) Posture, body movement, and style; 2) Rhythm, coordination, and projection; 3) Basic step, variations, dance positions, and movement; and 4) Core figures. Once students have achieved these objectives, they will be ready to progress to the next level, where more complex and stylish content will be introduced. They will also be well-prepared to dance correctly and elegantly in social settings. Three levels are offered: 1, 2, and 3.
Level 2: March 4 Week Series: Tuesdays 6:15-7:15pm on March 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st
Students will strengthen their foundation from Level 1 while learning traditional Casino figures and modern variations. They will also learn how to combine multiple figures smoothly, using clear transitions and spatial awareness, guided by the instructor’s demonstrations. Finally, students will develop the ability to improvise by combining traditional figures naturally and spontaneously, taking into account their partner, the structure of the music (verse vs. montuno), and the mood of the moment. By mastering these objectives, students will be ready to learn more advanced and eye-catching content and will gain a higher level of skill for social dancing.
Level 3: March 4 Week Series: Thursdays 6:30-7:30pm on March 12th, 19th, 26th, April 2nd
Students will begin learning the foundations of Rueda de Casino, integrating previous content with new figures and coordinated group formations. Students will perform figures involving partner changes, group movement, use of dance elements from other Cuban and international styles, off-beat (contratiempo) rhythm, and surprise transitions.
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.
Minimum 5 students.
HipHop Shape
Instructor: G-Quan Booker
Description. A fitness class with Fun energetic environment. Great music and great dance moves. Learn hiphop dances with a collective of adults. Dance for fun, dance for your fitness and join the growing community of movers here in Ithaca.
Line Dance
Instructors: Loretta Darling, Becky Sydney
Description. Come learn the latest and greatest country and pop line dance routines, with some timeless classics to boot. Expect to have tons of fun! Watch your memory improve. Exercise while having a blast. Activate brain serotonin – the happy hormone!