Dance Lessons for Couples and Singles in Fort Lee
Salsa Classes in Fort Lee, NJ
Looking for Salsa Lessons in Fort Lee?
Founded by Dancing with the Stars champions Maks and Val Chmerkovskiy, our studio features NDCA-certified instructors and is a proud recipient of the Fort Lee Chamber of Commerce Merit Award.
2029 LEMOINE AVE #201 FORT LEE, NJ 07024
Studio Contact Info
2029 LEMOINE AVE #201 FORT LEE, NJ 07024
No Partner or Experience Needed, Start at Any Age!
No partner needed to get started! The salsa you’ll learn here will have you confident on any dance floor – from Fort Lee to the Jersey Shore to Manhattan’s Latin clubs.
Here’s everything you need to know about salsa classes in Fort Lee, NJ, including what makes Dance With Me Fort Lee Bergen County’s 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 Fort Lee Is the Perfect Place to Start Salsa
Fort Lee offers a unique position: minutes from Manhattan via the George Washington Bridge, yet with the space and parking that NYC can’t offer.
Fort Lee’s diverse community, including significant Korean-American, Hispanic, and NYC-commuter populations, creates natural demand for Latin social dance.
The NYC metro area has one of the most vibrant salsa scenes in the world, and Fort Lee residents can participate without going into the city, provided they have proper instruction locally.
Dance With Me Fort Lee serves all of Bergen County, including Cliffside Park, Edgewater, Palisades Park, Englewood, Alpine, and Leonia, making it the most convenient salsa studio for North NJ.
Check the benefits of start to learn Salsa:
What Is New York Style Salsa And Why Does It Matter?
New York style salsa (also called ‘On2’ or ‘Mambo style’) is the dominant salsa style in the NYC metro area.
Danced ‘on 2’ (break step on beat 2), it has a smooth, sophisticated feel and is the style most commonly danced at NYC Latin clubs, events, and socials.
LA-Style Salsa (On1) is danced ‘on 1’, more linear, slightly more beginner-friendly and common on the West Coast.
As a Fort Lee/Bergen County resident attending NYC-area events, knowing NY-style salsa (On2) is the key to fitting in on Manhattan and NJ Latin dance floors.
Our salsa instructors teaches NY-style salsa. This class will focus on basic patterns & allow you to have a better understanding of the required musicality to dance NY style Salsa.
Salsa Styles We Teach in Fort Lee — On1, On2 & More
Salsa is not just one dance style. It has evolved into several distinct forms, each with its own rhythm and personality. At Dance With Me Fort Lee, our instructors teach the styles most commonly danced in New Jersey’s 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 it’s less common in some 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 Fort Lee
Meet Your Fort Lee
Salsa Instructors
At Dance With Me Fort Lee, 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.
DiazYavet
Dance Instructor
RussoElena
Regional Manager
Dance Instructor
Diaz Yavet
Yavet is originally from Miami FL and started dancing at the age of 10. He was always very drawn to music and dancing, and has always been a very expressive person. He’s trained in various styles such as ballet, jazz, hip hop, and salsa. At age 17 he took an apprenticeship with the Fred Astaire organization and was trained and certified in their syllabus of American Styles.
Yavet has competed in Pro/Am divisions for Rhythm, and has led his students to win numerous championships. He enjoys choreography, and exploring the science of movement. “My favorite thing about dancing is that there’s always more to learn.” He would describe his dancing style as versatile, and there’s no doubt that his dynamic and contagious spirit helps craft a fun and productive learning environment.
Regional Manager
Russo Elena
Elena Russo grew up in upstate NY, competing in commercial and concert dance style and training in latin-social dance styles. She went on to further her career at Montclair State University, earning her BFA in Dance Performance and graduating Summa Cum Laude with distinction of Outstanding Performer. Post graduation, Elena completely turned her focus to the ballroom world. At Dance With Me, Elena strives to make every student feel welcomed into the studio & has made it a goal to help all students, beginner or professionals, achieve their dancing goals.
What to Expect at Your First Salsa Class in Fort Lee
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 Fort Lee.
- Arrive at 2029 Lemoine Ave, Suite 201, Fort Lee - parking is available.
- Receive a welcome from the DWM Fort Lee 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 Fort Lee — New Jersey’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.
Dance With Me Fort Lee won the Fort Lee Regional Chamber of Commerce Merit Award in 2014 for having a “significant impact on the borough.” Mayor Mark Sokolich even performed the official ribbon-cutting. We’ve taught over 10,000 people to dance!
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 Fort Lee, 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 Fort Lee help you reconnect with yourself through movement.
Dance With Me Fort Lee is an exceptional ballroom dance studio with an outstanding team of professional instructors and staff. From the moment I walked in, everyone made me feel welcome, comfortable, and confident.
I would especially like to recognize Alina, my dance instructor. She introduced me to the world of ballroom dancing by teaching me my very first steps. She is incredibly talented, patient, encouraging, and passionate about what she does. Her ability to explain techniques and build confidence has made every lesson enjoyable and rewarding.
One of the greatest benefits I’ve experienced is that my shyness has decreased significantly, and I now feel much more comfortable dancing with friends. Every lesson has helped me become more confident, relaxed, and eager to continue learning new dance styles.
I also want to sincerely thank Elena, Adam, and all of the other instructors and staff for creating such a positive, friendly, and supportive environment. Their professionalism and dedication make every visit a pleasure.
If you’re looking to learn ballroom dancing, improve your skills, or simply have fun while gaining confidence, I highly recommend Dance With Me Fort Lee. It’s truly an amazing place to learn and grow as a dancer.
Thank you, Alina, and the entire Dance With Me Fort Lee team, for making this such an unforgettable experience!
However, I was disappointed with the misinformation regarding the introductory session. I initially reached out to inquire about group classes and was encouraged to book a private intro session for $49. When I asked about the session length, I was told it would be around 40 minutes, which I was happy with. Unfortunately, the actual lesson lasted only about 15 minutes. The remaining time was spent discussing private lesson packages, which I had assumed would take place after the full 40-minute session.
While I understand and respect that businesses promote their services, it shouldn’t come at the expense of the customer experience. Had I known the session would be just 15 minutes of instruction followed by a sales conversation, I would have opted not to proceed. Poor business ethics.
FAQ – Salsa Classes in Fort Lee, NJ
Where can I take salsa classes in Fort Lee?
Dance With Me Fort Lee offers beginner and advanced salsa classes at its studio. 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 Fort Lee?
At Dance With Me Fort Lee, 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.DWM Fort Lee provides private choreography sessions for weddings and special events, creating routines tailored to your song and style.
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Visit Our New Jersey Dance Studio in Fort Lee
Ready to start gliding across the floor? We are conveniently located in Fort Lee, easily accessible for residents across the greater area.
Don’t wait for the next special occasion to learn how to dance. Discover the joy, elegance, and fun of the Dance Classes today.
