Why I Teach

I have devoted my whole life (thus far) to the art of dance and dance education. I've worked hard for over 20 years to absorb as much as possible through training, studying, and practicing everything that I have been taught and learned about dance and from the dance community. I have been fortunate enough to learn from some real giants in the dance world and have gained irreplaceable knowledge about the impact that dance has on those who surround themselves with it and chose to witness its power. Everyone's interpretation of dance is different and unique. I work to create movement that allows both dancers and observers to feel something, anything so they are able to take something away from every class and performance. I teach dance because I have never experienced anything more captivating, empowering, or humbling. It has shaped my entire life, providing opportunities that I could only find through the exploration of movement. Even after decades of studying, I am still constantly learning and growing in the art form. Dance requires devotion, time, and drive to absorb even a fraction of what it has to offer. Dance exposes human qualities and vulnerabilities while surpasses the ordinary to allow for pure magic to take place. It is what I chose to share with as many people as possible in hopes that they too will experience the wondrous and limitless possibilities of dance. Not only does dance allow for self-expression, storytelling, and joyous physical activity, but it also enables the psychotherapeutic healing process through the use of dance and movement. The National Core Arts Standards for pubic schools at both the state and national level recognizes dance as an important standard in education. It stresses that "students need specific knowledge and skills in a particular arts discipline to a degree that allows for fluency and deep understanding." For dance, "this means discovering the expressive elements of dance... being able to reflect, critique, and connect personal experience to dance." (NDEO) I intent to share the technique, styles, knowledge, and most importantly the passion and love for dance with everyone that I have the honor of teaching and leading through the boundless art of movement.

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Limitless Creativity Awaits,

Melina