Whether you enter Level 1 or progress to Level 12, our Salsa classes offer new challenges to every dancer. We work with a clear structure: from basic patterns and simple combinations to complex figures, musicality and improvisation. You learn not only how to move fluently with a partner, but also how to respond creatively to the music, how to add styling and how to dance with confidence at every social and festival.
Our classes are interactive, energetic and always connected to the music. We pay a lot of attention to technique, partner work, connection, rhythm and body language. This not only gives you control over your technique, but also a dance style that tells your own story.
Casino – known as Salsa – originated in Cuba in the 1950s and 1960s. It developed from a blend of Son, Mambo and Rumba, supplemented by influences from jazz and other Latin American styles. Unlike styles such as LA, New York or Mambo, in Cuba people mainly dance in circles, with partners constantly changing positions.
This playful style is often used in rueda de casino danced, with multiple couples in a circle performing figures on command. This makes Salsa Cubana not only technically challenging, but also incredibly social and a style that brings people together, just like in the streets of Havana.
Do I need a partner to join?
No! You can also register alone. You do not need a partner. In our classes, we provide a good mix of leaders and followers, using rotation and extra helpers to ensure the best possible balance.
What should I bring or put on?
The most important thing is that you feel comfortable! Wear comfortable clothes you can move in, the higher the level, the more you will sweat! Keep in mind that personal hygiene is also essential, so come to class with clean and fresh clothes. For Salsa and Bachata, trainers with smooth bottoms are best, so preferably no studs! It is also handy if you bring a bottle of water, we don't want you to get dehydrated, ow and bring a snack for after class, this is recommended.
Do I need special dance shoes?
Not for beginners. Trainers are fine, though useful if they are smooth soles, studs are not so nice. As you progress, dance shoes or heels with suede soles are useful for turns and smoother movements.
How early should I be present for class?
Try to arrive 10 to 5 minutes before class starts. This will give you time to change your shoes, warm up and sign in.
What if I am late for class?
If you are a few minutes late, you can still join. But please be respectful to the group and be mindful of disturbing the class, you might not be able to join until the first part of the class is over. This is because we do not have eyes on the door during our classes and for safety reasons we close the door to unwanted guests.
Can I switch roles? (lead/follow)
Yes! When you register, you can choose your preferred role: lead or follow. Would you like to try the other role later on? Let us know and we will look at the possibilities together. You cannot spontaneously switch roles during the lesson itself, as this may cause confusion and disrupt the lesson structure. We want to make sure that everyone can participate in a pleasant and clear way.
Are the lessons gender-specific?
Not at all. Everyone is welcome to lead or follow, regardless of gender identity. We support an inclusive community.
Am I always taught by the same teacher?
It depends on the course. Many courses are taught by a permanent teacher, but some are taught by several teachers or have occasional substitutes. We always ensure quality and consistency.
Can I bring a friend to class?
Yes, friends are of course always welcome to try a class. Just make sure they register in advance for a Try-out, this is only not possible in lessons 3 to 8 of Level 1 this disrupts the lesson too much.
Never danced salsa before? No problem. In our Salsa Level 1 course, you will learn the basics of salsa step by step from top teachers with academic backgrounds. In 8 weeks, you will develop a sense of rhythm, partner connection and self-confidence on the dance floor.
Enrolling within the first week of the season? Then use discount code UNAFAMILIA and receive €20 off your course.
Still in doubt? Sign up for a try-out and discover how much fun learning salsa can be!
Learning to dance is like learning a new language: it takes time and dedication, but once you master the basics, you can dance salsa anywhere in the world. In this course, we strengthen your foundation with new figures, rhythms and combinations. Your salsa will become more fluid, your connection with your partner stronger and your fun on the dance floor greater.
Do you already have some salsa experience? Then this course is perfect for you! We will work on the details that will take your dancing to the next level: posture, technique and natural flow. You will learn to dance with more control and confidence, as you begin to discover your personal style.
In Level 4, we refine your basics and bring more flair to your dance. You will learn more complex combinations, add new figures to your repertoire and discover how to integrate improvisation and expression. Time to really grow your confidence.
This course is all about precision, styling and control. We delve deeper into body posture, turning, timing and leading/following advanced figures. You will develop musicality and learn to fine-tune your movements to your partner and the music.
Level 6 is all about the interplay between technique and expression. You will learn dynamic combinations and work on smooth transitions, flow and dancing at different tempos We put extra emphasis on the interplay between partners and how to make each dance tell a story.
Level 7 is for the dancer ready to experiment with their own style. We introduce choreography, musicality drills and more challenging partner figures. Here you will learn to really make your dance your own and take your expression to the next level.
Level 8 is all about refinement and performance. We work on presentation, timing, speed and clean execution. The figures are more complex and there is a lot of focus on dynamic interplay. This course is perfect for those who want to shine on the dance floor.
This level is for the ambitious dancer who likes a challenge. We combine musicality, technique and partner work at a high level. You will learn figures with impact, tempo changes, and styling under pressure. Here, everything you have learnt melts into powerful, fluid dance.
Level 10 is for dancers who want to master the smallest nuances. It's all about control, creativity and connecting to the music. We will challenge you with tempo and direction changes, expressive breaks and intricate partner changes. For those who really want to get the most out of their dance.
The highest level within our school. Here you dance with confidence, master technique in detail and play freely with rhythms, figures and styling. Perfect for those who want to keep developing themselves without losing the magic of partner work. This level is expressive, musical and above all: pure dance fun.
Have a question, want to share something or just get in touch?
Gerrit van der Veenstraat 99,
1077 DT Amsterdam
E-mail: info@salsadistrict.nl
Phone: +31 (0)6 42298137
