EXPERIENCE NEW YORK’S PREMIER DANCE COMMUNITY
Master Salsa in the Heart of Midtown
From absolute beginners to social pros. No partner required to get started tonight.
37 WEST 37TH STREET, 2ND FLOOR New York, NY 10018
Studio Contact Info
Salsa Classes for Every Level. No Partner or Experience Needed!
No matter your age, fitness level, or experience, you belong here. The salsa you’ll learn here will have you confident on any dance floor.
Here’s everything you need to know about salsa classes, including what makes Dance With Me Midtown the top-rated choice.
BEGINNER
intermediate
You’ve got the basics — now it’s time to stand out. Go deeper into technique, musicality, and confidence on the floor. We’ll help you find your style — and own it.
ADVANCED
Why Midtown Manhattan Is the Perfect Place to Start Salsa
Midtown offers the ultimate convenience for both NYC locals and commuters. Located within walking distance of major subway lines, Penn Station, and Grand Central, it’s the perfect place to drop in for a class after work before heading out into the city. The NYC metro area is the global epicenter of NY-style salsa
What Is New York Style Salsa And Why Does It Matter?
New York style salsa (also called ‘On2’ or ‘Mambo style’) was born right here in the city. Danced ‘on 2’ (break step on beat 2), it has a smooth, sophisticated, and highly musical feel. It is the absolute standard for social dancing at NYC Latin clubs, events, and socials. While LA-Style Salsa (On1) is common on the West Coast, knowing NY-style salsa (On2) is essentially a prerequisite for navigating Manhattan’s Latin dance floors with confidence.
Dance With Me Midtown explicitly teaches authentic NY-style salsa. This class will focus on basic patterns, leading and following techniques, and the required musicality to dance On2 like a true New Yorker.
Salsa Classes and Lessons for Couples and Singles in Midtown – What We Offer
Salsa is not just one dance style. It has evolved into several distinct forms, each with its own rhythm and personality. At our Dance Studio, our instructors teach the styles most commonly danced in social scene.
LA-Style Salsa (On1)
Often called On1, this is the most common style taught in beginner salsa classes and seen at clubs and social events. The dancer “breaks” on the first beat of the music, creating an energetic and flowing style that’s easy to learn and highly social.
Most beginners start with On1 because it provides a clear structure and quickly builds confidence on the dance floor.
New York-Style Salsa (On2)
On2 salsa shifts the timing so the break step happens on the second beat of the music.
This style is often considered more musical and rhythm-focused, and many experienced social dancers prefer it.
While beginners usually start with On1, students who continue training often explore On2 to deepen their musicality and technique.
Cuban / Casino Style
Cuban salsa, also known as Casino, emphasizes circular movement and group interaction. While may be less common in social venues, it’s part of salsa’s historical roots and influences many modern styles.
What’s the difference between salsa On1 and On2?
On1 breaks on the first beat of the music and is the most common beginner style in clubs and studios. On2 breaks on the second beat and emphasizes musical interpretation and rhythm. Both use similar steps — the difference lies in timing and feel.
Learn with the best Salsa Teachers in Midtown
Meet Your Midtown
Salsa Instructors
At Dance With Me Midtown, you’ll learn from a team of certified professionals mentored by Dancing with the Stars champions Maks and Val Chmerkovskiy. Unlike general studios, our instructors combine a 30-year brand pedigree with elite competitive experience to simplify complex Latin rhythms.
MarquezAlejandro
DANCE INSTRUCTOR
AvlonitiDanai
Studio Manager
DANCE INSTRUCTOR
Marquez Alejandro
Studio Manager
Avloniti Danai
What to Expect at Your First Salsa Class in Midtown
If you’ve never taken a dance class before, you might wonder what the experience is actually like. Here’s what typically happens during your first salsa lesson at DWM Midtown.
- Arrive at 37 WEST 37TH STREET, 2ND FLOOR New York, NY 10018
- Receive a welcome from the DWM team and an NDCA-certified instructor greeting.
- Your instructor assesses your level and goals.
- Learn the NY-style salsa basic step (On2 – break on beat 2).
- Experience partner rotation – absolutely no partner needed.
- Practice your basic patterns to salsa music.
- Wrap up with a debrief, questions, and recommended next steps (group program vs. private).
Why Dance With Me Midtown's Salsa Authority
Not all dance studios are created equal. DWM dance studios stands apart because of its unique combination of expertise, atmosphere, and community.
The studio was founded by Maks & Val Chmerkovskiy, world-renowned dancers known for their performances on Dancing With the Stars.
At our Dance Studio in Midtown, you’ll find:
Why Students Love Us
At DWM, couples dancing is more than steps—it’s confidence, connection, and self-expression. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, increased energy, or a vibrant community, our dance studio in Midtown help you reconnect with yourself through movement.
I wasn’t sure how my fiancé was going to react to the lessons and after our two hours he booked another session for us he enjoyed it so much! We will continue now with group lessons in our future! Thanks, Wesley!
I first attended a group class, since DWMM has classes every day of the week and it's nice that they're at the same time too! It took me a while for dance to grow on me and really get good. But the instructors and everyone who not only works here, but who dances here is wonderful!
I have Srna and Milijan who are both amazing at what they do and are very funny and caring. Mariam who works at the front desk is an absolute sweetheart!! Everyone is so supportive of each other and fun to talk to, this really became my second family ❤️
DWMM even invited me to come watch their Nationals competition in December, which was Winter Ball ❄️ I was so sad I couldn't compete, but I wasn't dancing long enough and they wanted to make sure I was totally prepared.
When I had to take a break from dance and couldn't dance for a while, my instructor called me just to check in on me and see how I was doing. As I wasn't dancing I felt like something was missing and I just wasn't the same person (as cliche as that might sound)!
Now I've just finished competing in my 1st ever dance competition winning 2nd place 2x in the Championship rounds!! They have a gala, theme for the competition, and it's a whole experience 😍 The competitions all have different themes. This one was 50's.
I always wanted to have something be my thing and devote all my time and energy into it and compete, and now I finally got my wish ❤️
FAQ – Salsa Classes in Midtown
Where can I take salsa classes in Midtown??
Dance With Me Buckhead offers beginner and advanced salsa classes at its studio in Phipps Plaza. Students can choose from group classes, private lessons, and social dance events designed to help them practice what they learn.
How much do salsa classes cost in Midtown?
At Dance With Me Buckhead, you can start with a $49 Intro Special
Can I learn salsa without a partner?
Yes. Most students attend salsa classes without a partner. In group classes, dancers rotate partners so everyone can practice leading and following.
How long does it take to learn salsa?
You can learn the basic step in a single class. Most students feel comfortable dancing socially after five to eight beginner classes. With regular practice, many become confident social dancers within three to six months.
What is the difference between salsa On1 and On2?
On1 breaks on the first beat of the music and is the most common beginner style. On2 breaks on the second beat and emphasizes musicality and rhythm interpretation.
Is salsa or Bachata easier for beginners?
Bachata is often slightly easier because its rhythm is simpler. Many dancers begin with salsa and add bachata later to expand their skills.
What should I wear to salsa classes?
Wear comfortable clothes that allow movement. Smooth-soled shoes are best for turning and spinning.
Do you offer salsa lessons for weddings?
Yes. Dance With Me Buckhead provides private choreography sessions for weddings and special events, creating routines tailored to your song and style.
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Visit Our Midtown Dance Studio
Ready to start gliding across the floor? We are conveniently located in the heart of New York, easily accessible.
Don’t wait for the next special occasion to learn how to dance. Discover the joy, elegance, and fun of the Dance Classes today.
