Adryhan

In my point of view, there're two ways to dance Salsa: the "street way" and the "formal way" (or school way). The "street way" is to do whatever comes to your mind, loosen your body, feel the music, and be yourself. If you walk you have rhythm. If you have rhythm you become a street dancer. Got my point?

The "formal way" your moves are organized, because you have to step forward or back at a very precise moment, while you do different patterns at the same time. When you combine these two worlds, you will have grace, synchronization, precision, control of your body, and style. It's so enjoyable to hear every beat, every instrument, and every compass of a song and translate them into movements. You are not just dancing. Salsa for me is like flying without leaving the ground.

So I like Salsa, Merengue, and Bachata, but my favorite is of course "SALSA." I started dancing the "formal way" on February 21st, 2002 when I walked into the now defunct "Red Brick Dance Studio". I said to myself "Cheese whiz! This is good!" So I started taking lessons with Tee and Jessica who later invited me to be part of the studio family. ( I really appreciate what you taught me, the advices that you gave me and the footwork that you shared with me. Thanks again and wherever you are, and whatever you do, God bless both of you!)

At the same time I met Yang and Erin. (Thanks Yang more than millions for helping me out during my beginner and intermediate classes. I also appreciate Erin for helping me with my timing.) They played a very important roll when I first learned Salsa. One thing that you'll like about Yang is that he is patient, willing to teach, and disciplined, which are good elements in a teacher. So thanks again to this dynamic duo!

My advice to those who just started dancing: ladies, when you go into a dip, don't throw yourself back too far, otherwise you might end up on the floor. Gentlemen, protect your partner at all times, and try to move or stay away from Kamikaze dancers who throw kicks and punches when they dance. So stay out of the missile zone!!@@!!

For "street dancers" the transition could be hard, because I've been through that. This is a critical moment because you have to get rid of certain ways of dancing and start counting to get the steps. This may sound like a living hell or torture, but after you kick into gear, counting will become a breeze or barely noticeable.