The good teacher explains.

The superior teacher demonstrates.

The great teacher inspires.”

- William Arthur Ward

Hi there!

I hope you are having a fantastic summer no matter what you’re doing. I just thought I’d stay in touch and share a little about my summer on the dance floor. I’m proud to say that many wedding couples have stepped out with confidence and finesse in front of their friends and family this summer thanks to dance instruction at Dance With Liza!

I’ve also had the joy of helping a wonderful couple, Paul and Laura, learn to waltz together just for fun. Stick with it you two, you’re doing great! I’ve also had a few surprise dates where the guy keeps it a secret and surprises his girlfriend or wife with a Salsa dance lesson. One time, one of these surprised women actually cried! Dancing is clearly something women wished they could do more often with their partners.

Finally, on 4th of July, I taught at a private birthday party. Could you believe I taught Greek dancing! I also showed the party goers a couple line dances and Merengue, but they really had fun with the Greek dances. Something about folk dancing that gets families out of their chairs, I guess. I hope you enjoy the rest of summer and remember to get out and dance when you get the chance!

With sincere gratitude,
Liza Dalyot,
Dance With Liza

–
Liza Dalyot,
Caring and Experienced
Ballroom, Swing, Latin, Country,
Wedding Dance Instructor
In-home or studio lessons
(619) 861-6260

http://www.dancewithliza.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gc4HGQHgeFE

This May there’s a lot of fun events going on.  If you haven’t been yet, make it to Gator By the Bay, a Zydeco and Cajun festival, on Mother’s day, May 9 from 10:30am-7pm.  Keith Frank, one of my favorite Zydeco singers, is performing from 2-4:10.  Go to http://www.gatorbythebay.com for details.  I love this festival and go every year.  It’s $25 to get in, but includes free dance lessons all day by various teachers, like my buddy Greg Benusa, not to mention fantastic live music.

On May 16, come to the FREE North Park Festival of the Arts from 10am-6pm at University Ave. and 30th Street (right by my studio!)  Go to:  http://www.northparkmainstreet.com for more details.

Thank you Lisette, Randy, Sue, and Jaime for being dedicated students from January through April.  I hope you’ll go practice Salsa soon so it’s not forgotten!

In addition to offering private dance lessons and parties, Dance With Liza is now offering group dance classes by request only.  Create your own group dance class on your schedule for you and your friends, family, or associates.  Learning to dance is more fun when you’re learning with your buddies.  Here’s how to create your own group dance class:

1. Gather at least 4 people who want to learn to dance Ballroom, Swing, Latin, Country, & Nightclub dancing
2. Choose at least 2 different days and times when everyone is available
3. Contact Dance With Liza (preferably by phone) to match your group’s availability with ours
4. Register in advance for a session which can last as long as you want, but generally 4-12 weeks
5. Come to class and have fun learning to dance with your buddies

Hi everyone,

Spring is here and the sun is shining brightly in America’s finest city. Now is a terrific time to get out, be active, and tone those bodies in time for summer. How about supplementing your usual workout routine with a dance class or lesson? Partner dancing not only tones both upper and lower body muscles, but improves our core strength and balance. So resolve to banish the excuses this month and make time to dance!

Here are some fun partner dance classes and events this week:

Country Dancing taught by Liza Dalyot
Mondays 6:30-7:30pm
March 1, 8, 15, 22
Chula Vista Woman’s Club
357 G Street (in between 3rd and 4th Ave.)
Chula Vista, CA 91910

This class is an introduction to laid back Country-Western Two-Step and more.
Each class includes a review of basic steps followed by fun new moves.
The small class size ensures you’ll receive lots of one-on-one attention
to improve your dancing skills. Partners are not required, we rotate
partners so everyone can practice. Walk-ins welcome.
$10 per person, $35 for all 4 classes
(First class is FREE)

Salsa Dancing taught by Liza Dalyot
Mondays 7:30-8:30pm
March 1, 8, 15, 22
Chula Vista Woman’s Club
357 G Street (in between 3rd and 4th Ave.)
Chula Vista, CA 91910

This class is an introduction to sizzling Salsa and more. Each class includes
a review of basic steps followed by fun new moves. The small class size
ensures you’ll receive lots of one-on-one attention to improve your dancing
skills. Partners are not required, we rotate partners so everyone can practice. Walk-ins welcome.
$10 per person, $35 for all 4 classes
(First class is FREE)

Salsa Dancing taught by Liza Dalyot
Thursdays 6-7pm
March 4, 11, 18
The Wood Room
3800 30th St. (on corner of North Park Way one block South of University Ave.)
San Diego, CA 92104

This class is an introduction to sizzling Salsa and more. Each class includes
a review of basic steps followed by fun new moves. The small class size
ensures you’ll receive lots of one-on-one attention to improve your dancing
skills. Partners are not required, we rotate partners so everyone can practice. Walk-ins welcome.
$10 per person, $26 for all 3 classes
(First class is FREE)

Ballroom Basics taught by Liza Dalyot
Saturdays 5-6pm
March 5, 12, 19
The Wood Room
3800 30th St. (on corner of North Park Way one block South of University Ave.)
San Diego, CA 92104

This class is an introduction to timeless classics like Waltz, Foxtrot, and Jitterbug Swing. Each class includes a review of basic steps followed by fun new moves.
The small class size ensures you’ll receive lots of one-on-one attention to improve
your dancing skills. Partners are not required, we rotate partners so everyone can practice. Walk-ins welcome.
$10 per person, $26 for all 3 classes
(First class is FREE)

~~~~
Here are some other fun dance classes and parties that I’ve tried myself and highly recommend:
~~~~

Zydeco Dancing taught by Greg Benusa
Tuesdays 7:00-7:30pm beginner lesson
(and) 7:30-8pm intermediate lesson
Riley’s at the Quality Inn by the airport
2901 Nimitz Blvd, San Diego (Point Loma), 92106
Rileys web site is www.rileysmusiclounge.com
RileysPhone number: 619-255-8635
Greg’s cell: 619-857-8409
8:00pm – 10:00pm – Zydeco DJ’d dance with Gator-Boy
10pm – Swing/ Jitterbug / West Coast Swing
Cover – $5 price… (first visit free)

http://www.zydecoach.com/

West Coast Swing taught by John Daugherty
Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30pm
(and)
Various Couples Dances (2-step, Waltz…)
Fridays 6:30-7:30pm
Wagon Wheel
8861 North Mangnolia
Santee, CA 92071
Cover – $5

http://www.jddance.com/home.html

Private or Semi-Private Lessons
As always, I teach private or semi-private in-home or in-studio lessons if you wish to accelerate your learning or prepare for a special event, such as a wedding or cruise. Contact me today so you can dance better tonight!

only backwards and in high heels!”
- Ginger Rogers

Hope you all had a lovely Valentine’s Day and holiday weekend.  I had a nice time squid fishing on the ocean, except that my lunch ended up in the wavy waters!  As for dancing, Thursday nights in North Park are shining brightly thanks to many referrals by students Randy, Lisette, Sue, and Jaime.  Thanks you guys!  Monday nights in Chula Vista are picking up too.   Way to go Ann and Quito for not missing one class!  Also, thumbs up go to Maria and Antonio for smiling way too much during class, and to William for keeping a firm dance frame.

Remember that your first class is free to try, so if you know anyone that wants to come dance, please let them know.  Also, let me know if you have any special requests.  For example, what genre do you want to learn that isn’t being taught?  Which days and times are best for you if you can’t make the existing classes?  Which part of town is closest to you if the classes are too far  (North Park, La Mesa, Chula Vista, or other)?  What else is standing in between you and learning to dance?  I will consider your requests when creating future classes.

Below are some opportunities for you to spend quality time together and meet new people while learning to maneuver on the dance floor.  Happy dancing!

Upcoming Classes and Events
Salsa Dancing taught by Liza Dalyot
Thursdays 6-7pm
February 18, March 4, 11, 18 (no class on the 25th of Feb. or Mar.)
The Wood Room Performing Arts Studio
3800 30th St.
San Diego, CA 92104

This class is an introduction to Salsa and other fun, popular Latin dances.
Every class starts with a review of basics and then introduces fun new moves.
Partners are not required, we rotate partners so everyone can practice with each other.
Walk-ins welcome.
$10 per person, $35 for 4 classes, or FREE if you use your gift certificate.
(First class is FREE)

Country Dancing taught by Liza Dalyot
Mondays 6:30-7:30pm
February 22, March 1, 8,15,22
Chula Vista Woman’s Club
357 G Street
Chula Vista, CA 91910

This class is an introduction to Country-Western Two-Step and other fun couple dances done to country music.
Every class starts with a review of basics and then introduces fun new moves.  Partners are not required,
we rotate partners so everyone can practice with each other.  Walk-ins welcome.
$10 per person, $35 for 4 classes, FREE with gift certificate
(First class is FREE)

Latin Dancing taught by Liza Dalyot
Mondays 7:30-8:30pm
February 22, March 1, 8,15,22
Chula Vista Woman’s Club
357 G Street
Chula Vista, CA 91910

This class is an introduction to Salsa and other fun, popular Latin dances.
Every class starts with a review of basics and then introduces fun new moves.
Partners are not required, we rotate partners so everyone can practice with each other.
Walk-ins welcome.
$10 per person, $35 for 4 classes, or FREE if you use your gift certificate.
(First class is FREE)

~~~~
Here are some other fun dance classes and parties that I’ve tried myself and highly recommend:
~~~~

Zydeco Dancing taught by Greg Benusa
Every Tuesday, 7:00-8:00pm lesson (beg. at 7, int. at 7:30)
Riley’s at the Quality Inn by the airport
2901 Nimitz Blvd, San Diego (Point Loma), 92106
Rileys web site is www.rileysmusiclounge.com
RileysPhone number:  619-255-8635
Greg’s cell: 619-857-8409
8:00pm – 10:00pm – Zydeco DJ’d dance with Gator-Boy
10pm – Swing/ Jitterbug / West Coast Swing
Cover – $5 price…  (first visit free)
(Gift certificate not applicable cause managed by Greg.)

http://www.zydecoach.com/

West Coast Swing taught by John Daugherty
Every Wednesday, 6:30-7:30pm
Wagon Wheel
8861 North Mangnolia
Santee, CA 92071
Cover – $5
(Gift certificate not applicable cause managed by JD.)

http://www.jddance.com/home.html

Ballroom, Swing, & Latin Dance Party
Every Friday, 8-11pm
Synergy Dance Zone
(above Green Music by pyramid)
7480 Miramar Road
San Diego, CA 92126

These parties are a fantastic way to apply what you’re learning in Ballroom, Swing, Latin, & Salsa.
The dancers are generally friendly and many are well-trained.  It might be challenging at first,
but that will only make you better, so come out and get inspired!
$5 per person (free pizza and snacks included)
(Gift certificates not applicable cause it’s managed by Synergy.)

Private and Semi-Private Lessons
As always, I teach private and semi-private in-home or in-studio lessons at reasonable rates if you wish to receive one-on-one attention and accelerate your learning or prepare for a special event, such as a wedding or cruise.  Contact me for a FREE trial lesson today so you can dance tonight!

Latin Dancing

So many students have come to us struggling to learn Latin dances, like Salsa or Merengue. They become frustrated after making the same mistakes over and over again, without understanding the underlying technique. We provide students the individual attention and feedback they need to advance as dancers.

We have learned that students benefit by focusing intensely on proper form and technique. Once our students master the basics, they can easily advance to learning different combinations and executing them with confidence and finesse.

Latin dance includes a wide range of dances originating in Latin America and Cuba. Latin isa a faster-paced, more sensual, rhythmic expression.

Latin Dance Lessons

• Beginner Salsa Dancing & Intermediate Salsa Dancing
• Latin Dancing
• Cha-Cha
• Merengue
• Rumba

Basic Latin Steps

Side–To–Side
The side-to-side is the basic that our students experience the most success with, so it’s a good place to start. It is most commonly danced in social settings in Latin America and therefore the most useful.

Back Basic
The back basic is the foundation piece of British salsa. Eventually the back step provides the wind-up for the anti-clockwise spin that is the trademark of the British turn combinations.

Turning Basic
The turning basic is just a variation of the back basic with a turn of the body included. It’s easier to learn after the back basic, and it provides a change of scenery. If possible, align yourself facing one direction with objects that you can focus on ninety degrees to both your left and right e.g. walls in a square room. You can use these objects as reference points to help you learn.

Latin Basic
The Latin basic is commonly used in Latin America, and is also the foundation piece of North American salsa, giving rise to the single right turn combinations. The Latin basic is taught here as a simple variation of the back basic, where the left leg steps forward instead of backward.

Cross Basic
The cross basic is used often as it covers a lot of ground, usually to circle around a partner who is turning on the spot or spinning. This basic gets its name because it is a cross between the back basic and side-to-side, and also because one leg moves across the other.

Single Right Turn (SRT)
The single right turn (SRT) is derived from the Latin basic, where a right turn is performed during the forward phase of the Latin basic; the backward phase remains unchanged. The SRT is the foundation piece of most North American turn combinations. Like the turning basic, try to align yourself facing one direction with objects that you can focus on ninety degrees to both your right and behind your starting position e.g. walls in a square room. You can use these objects as reference points to help you learn.

Wedding Dance Lessons

You’ve planned every detail of your wedding. Don’t leave your first dance up to chance. Many couples are so busy planning their wedding that they forget about their first dance in front of all their family and friends. We can help you prepare so you may relax and enjoy the moment.

Whether you dance frequently or have never danced before, Dance With Liza can give you and your fiancé the confidence, experience and knowledge you need to enjoy the romance of your first dance as a married couple! Avoid the unnecessary awkwardness most couples feel doing the “bear hug sway” for three long minutes. Let us show you just how much fun and how easy dancing together can be!

See why our bridal couples say that taking Ballroom Dance Lessons with us made their first dance one of the highlights of their wedding. Many wedding couples tell us that they are still receiving compliments months later. We love helping couples start off on the right foot. Testimonials >>

First Dance Wedding Songs

Click here to see a list >>

Our Ballroom Wedding Dance Lessons Will Help You:

1. Create a beautiful dance for less than the price of your wedding cake!
2. Teach you to dance all night long to a variety of music styles.
3. Assist you with a custom song & dance selection.
4. Design a personalized dance with easy patterns so you glide around the floor effortlessly.
5. Give you styling and technique for a polished image.
6. Choreograph an elegant entrance and a closing dip that is sure to be a crowd pleaser and provide added sparkle to the festivities!
7. Give you a social activity the two of you can enjoy for a lifetime.

Ballroom Dance Lessons

Learn how to ballroom dance with grace and finesse. We will teach you how to master the steps so you look like a pro on the dance floor.

Ballroom dance is also known as social dance because it encourages social interaction between dance partners. Learning how to ballroom dance may prove not only to be an excellent form of exercise and entertainment, but you may even meet your mate. Ballroom dancing provides an ideal social climate.

Basic Ballroom Dancing

• Waltz
• Tango
• Foxtrot
• Quickstep

How To Ballroom Dance

There are three main rhythms in ballroom dancing…

Slow
The first rhythm is known as a slow. A slow is equivalent to two beats. A slow is danced by stepping on the first beat and killing time for the second beat. When you are dancing, count it as “slow, slow”, or “one-two, one-two.”

Quick
The second rhythm is called a quick. A quick is equivalent to one beat. A quick is danced as one step for each beat. When you are dancing, count it as “quick, quick, quick, quick,” or “walk, two, three, four.” Quicks are generally done in sets of two.

Triple
Triples are used in patterns as part of basic dancing. For example, in the Swing, you might see this pattern: “triple step, triple step, rock step.” Triples consist of three steps taken in quick succession, “one-n-two…stomp-your-feet.” One triple step movement occupies two beats (the same as a slow). The extra step is crammed in between the beats so it still equals two: “one-and-two.”

Learn To Swing Dance

Are you ready to be cool? If so, the Swing is a “must learn” dance. You will love our Swing dance classes.

The history of swing dates back to the 1920’s and recently has enjoyed resurgence. Even people with two left feet have been able to master the basics of this improvisational dance. Swing dancing is wonderful exercise because it is set to up-tempo music, and therefore, keeps moving rather quickly. Learn the basic swing step and you will feel comfortable dancing with anyone from a beginner, to an expert!

Swing Dance Instruction

• East Coast Single-time
• East Coast Triple-time

Swing Dance Styling Instruction

There are some basic styling points that should be mentioned. The Swing is a fast, exuberant dance, so you must maintain control or you’ll wind up sprawled out on the dance floor! To maintain balance, a firm hand grip is essential.

In Two-Hand Position, the man extends his arms forward with palms up. The woman then places her hands palms down in her partner’s hands. Think of your fingers as a hook. By cupping in with your fingers, a firm hold can be achieved and adequate tension and control will be maintained. In addition to a firm hand grip, it is essential that the forearm is held firmly for better body communication between the dancers.

Remember, the Swing is fast and lively. Think of your arms as rudders. They must be firm in order to know which way to go. If you have floppy arms, you won’t be able to respond to your partner’s lead quickly. Don’t be flustered if you don’t “get it” the first time. Read through and practice. The “feel” of the rhythm will come and you’ll be swinging before you know it.

Master The Back Rock

You will come across terms like “back rock” and “triple step” during the Swing. A back rock will either follow a step, a step-touch or a triple step. The man, who always begins his sequence on the LF (left foot), will always rock back on the LF as well. The woman will begin and rock back on the RF (right foot).