Classes

Salsa Level 1

No previous dance (or salsa) experience required. Start this class at any time. Each class starts with an explanation and review of the basic Salsa step and the timing and rhythm of Salsa music, followed by a new beginner level turn. Learn the basic steps, simple turn patterns and proper technique for leading and following — all while having fun and meeting new people! No partner required. Everyone rotates partners throughout the class.

Prerequisite: None

Recommended time to learn the Level 1 curriculum: At least 10-12 classes. But don’t rush it! This is the most important level to build good habits, understand timing, ask for feedback and set yourself up for success in future levels.
Students must book a free level assessment to see if they are ready to enter Salsa Level 2.

Salsa Level 2

Geared to those who are comfortable with the basic Salsa step, timing, basic right and left turns and Cross Body Lead. Build on Level 1 material and learn new turns and combinations, add footwork (i.e. Salsa shines) and reinforce your timing and partnering skills. Learn proper posture, frame, weight transfer and connection. Learn how to link steps into short turn patterns to look good on the dancefloor.

Prerequisite: Completed Level 1 at Steps Dance Studio and/or been assessed for entry in this level.

Recommended time to learn the Level 2 curriculum: 3-4 months.
Students must book a free level assessment to determine if they are ready to enter Salsa Level 3.
 

Salsa Level 3

Cross body lead patterns, travelling turns, back breaks, checks and different hand hold variations will be linked into fun turn pattern combinations. Start developing a flow of motion between different moves. There will be further focus on timing and musicality, partner skills, connection, balance, improving muscle memory and dancefloor etiquette.

Prerequisite: Completed Level 2 at Steps Dance Studio and/or been assessed for entry in this level.

Recommended time to learn the Level 3 curriculum: 6-9 months.
Students must book a free level assessment to determine if they are ready to enter Salsa Level 4.
 

Salsa Level 4

This course will focus on high intermediate level turns and turn pattern combinations, how to maintain balance and connection with your partner while incorporating directional changes & intricate moves, improving musicality, how to remember shines and turn patterns and use them in different combinations, tips on how to be a better leader and follower, adding styling to your dancing — in short, how to be a more complete dancer!

Prerequisite: Completed Level 3 at Steps Dance Studio and/or been assessed for entry in this level.

Recommended time to learn the Level 4 curriculum: 8-12 months.
Students must book a free level assessment to determine if they are ready to enter Salsa Level 5.
 

Salsa Level 5

Step up to the challenge! This course focuses on taking your dancing to the next level. Advanced level turn patterns, technique and skill development. Execute double spins, multiple turns and variations, intricate choreography and advanced-level syncopations. Adapt and combine your moves to suit the level of your partner. Learn how to accent beats in the music, be more playful with the song and with your partner and express yourself through styling.

Prerequisite: Completed Level 4 at Steps Dance Studio and/or been assessed for entry in this level.

Recommended time to learn the Level 5 curriculum: Endless! We teach new turn patterns and variations every week!

Bachata Level 1

Bachata is a seductive and flirtatious dance that originated in the Dominican Republic and is played in all Salsa nightclubs. Learn the basic Bachata footwork and how to lead and follow some fun and simple Bachata turns and turn pattern combinations.

Prerequisite: None

Recommended time to learn the Bachata Level 1 curriculum: 10-12 classes.
Students must book a free level assessment to determine if they are ready to enter Bachata Level 2. 

Bachata Level 2

If you have already learned the basic components of Bachata, now it is time to have fun! Learn new turns and turn pattern combinations while focusing on the correct connection, tension and movement of Bachata dancing. Learn body isolation exercises and drills to help make this dance look smooth and sexy.

Prerequisite: Completed Bachata Level 1 at Steps Dance Studio and/or been assessed for entry in this level.

Recommended time to learn the Bachata Level 2 curriculum: 3-4 months.
Students must book a free level assessment to determine if they are ready to enter Bachata Level 3.

Bachata Level 3

Learn more intricate and complex Bachata turn pattern combinations. Learn how to execute syncopated Dominican style footwork. Learn body isolation exercises and drills to help you to incorporate the sensuous Bachata body movement needed to make this dance look effortless. 

Prerequisite: Completed Bachata Level 2 at Steps Dance Studio and/or been assessed for entry in this level.

Recommended time to learn the Bachata Level 3 curriculum: 6-9 months.
Students must book a free level assessment to determine if they are ready to enter Bachata Level 4.
 

Bachata Level 4/5

Time to spice it up! Learn more intricate and sexy Bachata turn patterns. Add syncopated Dominican style footwork into your partner dancing. Learn how to incorporate the sensuous Bachata body movement needed to make this dance look effortless as well as adding sensual Bachata moves and patterns to your repertoire. Refine your leading & following technique in order to build a connection with each dance partner.

Prerequisite: Completed Bachata Level 3 at Steps Dance Studio and/or been assessed for entry in this level.

Recommended time to learn the Bachata Level 4/5 curriculum: Endless! We teach new turn patterns and variations every week!
 

Casino Rueda

A Cuban form of Salsa, often described as "Salsa in a Circle". Combine new turn patterns while exchanging partners throughout the song with moves called out by the caller. Each month new Casino calls/steps will be taught so we ask students to begin at the beginning of the month for this class. For Salsa students in Levels 2-5.

Performance Class

Learn an entire choreographed routine and then perform it at a studio party and other nightclubs or events in Toronto. Performance classes are taught throughout the year in Salsa and Bachata and are sometimes offered in Cha Cha, Latin Hustle and Casino Rueda. A performance class will help to improve your memory of turn patterns and shines, enhance your styling, improve your timing and musicality and learn dips and tricks. Unleash your inner performer, increase your confidence on the dance floor, meet new people and have fun!

* Performance classes not included with the membership. Members do get a great discount!
 

Styling Class

Geared to students in varying levels, depending on the specific class. Learn the basic elements of styling - simple things you can add from head to toe that will improve the look of your dancing. Learn how to add simple styling elements to both your shines and your partnerwork to make you look better and feel better on the dance floor. Improve your posture, get fit and have fun. For men and women.

Prerequisite: Completed Salsa Level 1 at Steps Dance Studio and/or has been assessed for entry in this class.
 

Technique Class

Improve your dance technique and improve your confidence. Each week's class will focus on a specific are of dance training including upper body technique, frame, hip motion technique, footwork technique and spinning technique. Open to men and women in varying levels.