Downtown Pittsfield Summer Music Series – Free Latin Dance Instruction!

Sunday, July 21, 5 to 7 pm: Zumba® with Sandra Zarate in Dunham Mall

Sandra has been a Zumba® instructor since 2016. She is from Colombia and has her own Zumba® studio in South County. Follow her on Instagram @sandrapatriciazumbazin

Sunday, July 28, 5 to 7 pm: Salsa and Brazilian Samba Classes with Luana Dias David in Dunham Mall

Luana Dias David is a performing artist and choreographer based in the Berkshires. With over two decades of experience, Luana embodies a profound passion for dance and a steadfast commitment to cultural preservation and community engagement. Hailing from São Paulo, Brazil, Luana excels in various dance forms including Samba, Capoeira, Break dancing, Latin dance, Jazz, and Classic Ballet. Her rich cultural heritage is evident in her teaching and choreography, ensuring that every performance is an authentic blend of tradition and innovation.

5 pm: Salsa Class
60 minutes

Dancers will focus on basic footwork, body lagging, spinning techniques, and partner work. Additionally, this class will explore salsa choreography, timing & musicality, and performance skills. Be ready to learn fun routines that you can take on the dance floor!

6 pm: Samba for Beginners 
60 minutes

This class will teach you Brazilian Samba from the ground up. You will learn the technique for the basic Samba step including the foundation footwork and hip movement. You will also learn arm placement, basic body movement, and simple transitions. Luana will teach and break down the timing and movements in fine detail to ensure that everyone in class learns at a comfortable pace.

This class is ideal for absolute beginners (no dance experience required) or beginner level Samba students who want to refresh their basic skills.

Sunday, August 4, 5 to 7 pm: Latin Dance Lessons by BSKE Dance Community Group in Dunham Mall

Neil Von Flatern will lead a quick lesson in salsa and bachata which will be followed by open dancing! Enjoy a live DJ and have fun! No experience is necessary!

Sunday, August 11, 5 to 7 pm: Latin Dance Lessons by BSKE Dance Community Group in Dunham Mall

Neil Von Flatern will lead a quick lesson in salsa and bachata which will be followed by open dancing! Enjoy a live DJ and have fun! No experience is necessary!

Sunday, August 18, 5 to 7 pm: Capoeira Lesson with Tarcísio “Taz” Ramos in Dunham Mall

Suitable for all levels, ages 12+

Discover the essence of Afro-Brazilian martial art with a captivating Capoeira class. Experience acrobatic movements, dance, powerful kicks, and the enchanting rhythms of traditional Capoeira music. This dynamic practice cultivates strength, flexibility, rhythm, and coordination. Come and embrace the spirit of Capoeira with us!

Tarcísio (Taz) is a Brazilian artist living in the Berkshires. His interdisciplinary approach to the arts gives him the ability to navigate through different art forms. He is a member of the Brazilian percussion group Berkshire Bateria and the founder of Quarteto de Samba. He performs often with both groups. He has published two books: a poetry book called “Point of Departure” and a children’s book titled “Quinho, a Kid Out The World”. Tarcisio has worked in Upstate New York at Art Omi, teaching theater and percussion. Presently he works for a not-for-profit organization, also in Upstate NY, providing individuals with autism with artistic and practical avenues to live an expansive life and to self-express. Out of all art forms that he practices, he has practiced Capoeira the longest. Capoeira was part of his upbringing in Brazil and he started it at the age of 10. He is excited to share it with the Berkshires.

Sunday, August 25, 5 to 7 pm: Andres Ramirez from the Funk Box Dance Studio teaches hip-hop in Dunham Mall

Andres Ramirez is a professional Breakdancer, instructor, and owner of The Funk Box Dance Studio in Pittsfield. He travels and competes frequently as well as hosts his own Hip Hop festival in his hometown. Andres trains and coaches young athletes and dancers who compete at both national and world-level events. His biggest passion, besides being a dad to 2 boys, is passing down knowledge to his students and promoting the positive influence that Hip Hop culture can bring to communities. Andres also performs and choreographs many pieces for his studio which have been displayed in theaters and stages across the region including Jacob’s Pillow.

Sunday, September 1, 5 to 7 pm: Zumba® with Sandra Zarate in Dunham Mall

Sandra has been a Zumba® instructor since 2016. She is from Colombia and has her own Zumba® studio in South County. Follow her on Instagram @sandrapatriciazumbazin

Sunday, September 8, 5 to 7 pm: Andres Ramirez from the Funk Box Dance Studio teaches hip-hop in Dunham Mall

Andres Ramirez is a professional Breakdancer, instructor, and owner of The Funk Box Dance Studio in Pittsfield. He travels and competes frequently as well as hosts his own Hip Hop festival in his hometown. Andres trains and coaches young athletes and dancers who compete at both national and world-level events. His biggest passion, besides being a dad to 2 boys, is passing down knowledge to his students and promoting the positive influence that Hip Hop culture can bring to communities. Andres also performs and choreographs many pieces for his studio which have been displayed in theaters and stages across the region including Jacob’s Pillow.

Follow along with @downtownpittsfield on Facebook for updates including cancellations due to weather.