Salsabor Tropical

This is for all of us who have given up.

For all of us who have already decided we don't have the time, the talent, or the patience to learn to dance.

Quietly, we want to be part of that atmosphere; to escape to the rhythm of the music and share its unique experience with friends. But we know enough about ourselves to know it's never going to happen...

We'd love to find someone who could change the way we think. Someone with a genuine belief in his ability to teach and our ability to learn - without nightmarish embarrassment or struggle. Someone whose methods could overcome the hesitation and frustration we have experienced in the past.

This is Tony Duarte. This is Salsabor Tropical. And this is salsa for everyone who wants to dance regardless of their skill level.

All you need is a "great attitude" and an "open mind" Tony said.

I thought it was all hype at first.

Then I watched how he focused on the basic step, teaching class after class, constantly reminding all of us there were no time limits, rules, or requirements to learning.

Tony already knew most of us had reservations about our ability that might limit our initial progress, so he taught by breaking down even the simplest moves. He structured his class levels and lessons so each of us could progress at our own pace, building our confidence at the same time we built our foundation in technique.

Remarkably, those of us with absolutely no natural ability who learned at the slowest pace were continually entertained by Tony's teaching style. He made everything about the process fun. You wanted to go to the next class - especially if you had questions - because you felt comfortable in the environment.

That comfort was a product of Salsabor Tropical's belief that you treat your fellow dancers as part of an extended family. No one gets turned away at practice; no gets turned away on the floor. Everyone - regardless of their individual progress - gives their new friends encouragement and the full opportunity to enjoy the experience.

It creates more than dancers; it creates friends.

I would have told anyone this was impossible. I had an endless supply of excuses to avoid dance lessons. I took the first few classes just as a distraction from a horrific work schedule. I knew I couldn't learn this. I knew I wouldn't learn this.

"You can and you will," Tony said, "you just have to want to."

That is the only question.

"Do you want to?"

If the answer is "yes", regardless of your reservations, Salsabor Tropical is the answer.

When I think of Salsabor Tropical I think of all the friendly smiles, the laughter, the joy, the good times, the new friends and what feels like my new family. Like many others that I've had the pleasure of meeting, I was introduced to this class to bring my spirit back to life. I was at a point in my life where I hit rock bottom. I was going through a divorce, my father passed away, my son wasn't doing well in school as a result of all that was going on... I had simply lost it.

Attending classes with Tony Duarte, founder and director of Salsabor Tropical, has been like chicken soup for my soul. Tony's class was highly recommended to me by my mother's co-worker. As soon as I stepped foot on Tony's class and he began the Salsa lingo, I began to regain my consciousness. That first hour (sixty minutes, 3,600 seconds) brought me back to life. I am now in the intermediate class and I can honestly say that Tony, and all the Salsabor Tropical team members, are friendly, patient and excellent teachers. Not only do they give exceptional detailed lessons, they ensure you have FUN while learning (and it is a great way to lose weight). For all those looking for the best place to learn Salsa, I recommend that you give Tony a call right away. You won't regret it. Salsa/Mambo on 2 is a very sensual salsa. It will fill your heart with joy. Oh, and my son is doing much better now and can’t wait to begin his lessons with Tony.

Yadira
05/26/09

I started taking dance lessons only about four years ago; and during that time, I have had many dance instructors from Hustle, Salsa and Cha-cha to Foxtrot, Waltz and Tango spending literally thousands of dollars. Not only was I getting an education on how to dance, but I was also getting an education about the quality of instructors out there. I found that there are many instructors who like to call themselves instructors; but if you look at their credentials, they are nothing more than advanced students looking for a way to make money. It’s true. Not many dance students actually look into credentials before choosing a dance school, including me. I found myself going to some classes week after week wondering why I wasn’t progressing. Learning to dance is certainly a big investment of time and money, so I eventually learned that it’s important to choose your instructors wisely.

In my quest to find a reliable, qualified experienced dance teacher, I came upon Tony Duarte of Salsabor Tropical. This time I did my homework. I was not about to waste another dime or another minute of my time on mediocre teachers. Tony is more than qualified in his 20 plus years of teaching dance. He started to train with Arthur Murray Dance School, and became a certified Member and Bachelor Professional Ballroom Dance Instructor. He has a long list of accomplishments from television to competitions to choreography to his many years of instruction at places that include colleges and universities.

My point is that this man knows his stuff. He knows how to conduct a class professionally and gives each and every student 110%. His undivided attention is never wavered within the group setting. He makes the newcomer feel comfortable and welcomed.

Bottom line is that your money will be well spent with Tony Duarte and the Salsabor Tropical team. Just read all the reviews about how much fun it is to learn Salsa with Tony. It’s no wonder that many come back week after week no matter what venue Tony teaches at.