What Can You Expect During Your First Salsa On2 Lesson?
Your first week begins with a warm welcome at our studio located at 4820 W. Irving Park Rd. in Chicago. You can easily find free parking nearby in the Irving Park and Six Corners neighborhood. Once you step inside, you will check in and meet your instructor and fellow students. We start right on time, so arriving a few minutes early helps you get settled comfortably before we turn on the music.
The first major step in week one is learning how to count Salsa On2 timing. Salsa On2 is also known as Mambo timing, where the main emphasis and break steps happen on the second beat of the music. We break down the musical rhythm into simple counts of eight. You will listen to selected Salsa tracks, clap to the rhythm, and practice identifying beat two together as a group.
Next, we focus on basic footwork without worrying about partners. You will stand in front of the mirrors and learn the core Salsa On2 basic step. Your instructor demonstrates every step clearly, showing you how to transfer weight smoothly from one foot to the other. We practice forward and backward basic steps slowly at first, then gradually build up to the normal tempo of the music.
After everyone feels comfortable with the basic steps alone, we pair up to practice lead and follow concepts. You do not need to bring a partner to join our classes because partners rotate continuously throughout the lesson. Rotating partners gives everyone a chance to dance with different people. This practice builds adaptability and accelerates your learning process in a supportive social environment.
During the partner portion of week one, you learn basic frame, hand connection, and gentle lead and follow mechanics. Leaders learn how to guide movement using clear chest direction and soft hands, while followers learn how to maintain tension and respond to cues smoothly. We keep the movements fundamental so that everyone builds confidence right away without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.
Towards the end of the lesson, we put the basic footwork and partner connection together into a simple short combination. You will practice doing the basic step with a partner on the On2 timing. We repeat the sequence several times to help your muscle memory take over. This quick review ensures you leave the very first class feeling accomplished and ready for week two.
Our beginner group classes run as a 4-week series for $95. For your first week, wear comfortable clothes that allow easy movement and smooth-soled shoes that let you pivot easily on the wood floor. You do not need any special dance background or prior experience. We guide you step by step through every movement so you feel successful from day one.
Questions people ask
Do I need a partner for the first week of Salsa On2?
No, you do not need to bring a partner for week one or any other week. Our group classes rotate partners frequently so everyone gets to practice with different dancers. This rotation helps you learn much faster and meet friendly people in class.
What should I wear to week one of Salsa On2 class?
Wear light, comfortable clothing that lets you move freely without restriction. Smooth-soled shoes or leather-bottomed shoes work best on our dance floor so you can turn easily. Avoid rubber-soled sneakers that grip the floor too hard.
How do I sign up for the 4-week Salsa On2 series?
You can sign up easily by contacting Dennis PaSamba Dance Company directly. Simply text or call 717-PaSamba (717-727-2622) to save your spot in our upcoming group series. Our 4-week group series costs $95 per person.
Visit the studio
Dennis PaSamba Dance Company
4820 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL 60641
Six Corners · Portage Park · Irving Park
dennispasamba.com · Text/Call 717-PASAMBA ((717) 727-2622)