MARIO LUIS ALABI

Biography:Mario Luis has been teaching the "Popular Salsa-Merengue" class at Mission Cultural center for several years. Born in Santa Ana, El Salvador, Mario Luis went on to receive his Bachelor degree from University of Illinois at Carbondale. As a talented singer/author he offers melodies of Salsa, Meringue, Cumbia, Ballads, Pop and other rhythms on his 2 self-produced albums, "Un Poco de Todo" and "Fusion Total". Mario Luis maintain a huge performance repertoire and is currently the stage manager for Community Festivals sponsored by SAFEWAY. Mario Luis is the proud Father of National and International Salsa Dance Champions Junior and Emily. Visit Mario Luis at:

Class Description:Come and learn the hottest dance craze on this side of the border. A whole lot of Salsa with a touch of Meringue, this fun-filled class will teach you the basic steps needed to get you dancing. The instructor will provide guidance and handouts. Students of all ages need to bring enthusiasm and a desire to learn and have fun!

Class Schedule:
Class: Salsa-Merengue Popular
Day: Fridays
Time: 7:30 - 9:00pm
Studio: A
Age: All
Price: $10

Website: www.MarioLuis.com

“JENAY” ANOLIN

Biography: Jennifer "JenAy" Anolin was born and raised in Oakland, Ca and has been dancing since the age of 3, trained in ballet, hip-hop, jazz and house dance styles under dance pioneers, Ronn Guidi, Corey Action, Rennie Harris and friends Nicole Klaymoon & Jardy Santiago. Before receiving her Dance & Child Development degrees from UCLA in 2006 she worked professionally with bay area dance companies, The Oakland Ballet and New Style Motherlode. She also danced for the Dance Production class at Skyline Senior High with Dawn James, class of 2002. She has taught throughout Oakland’s public school district through Destiny Arts Center & the City of Oakland Parks & Rec. She currently teaches Hip Hop & House fused dance classes at Skyline Senior High, Far West Academy, the Partners Summer Program at College Prep High School, and also at dance studios in both Oakland and in SF. She is a company member of Nicole Klaymoon's Embodiment Project and is also the Founder/Director for both the all-female dance collective Mix'd Ingrdnts and the youth Hip Hop dance and nutrition group, "The GroovLings".

Class Description: PROJECT HOUSE w/JenAy
An 8-week performance workshop series for ages 13 and up. In project house we will explore basic house foundational footwork, different rhythmic patterns, practice in repetition, engage in movement across the floor and learn fun and dynamic choreography and most importantly introduce the element of freestyle. This will be an 8 week workshop and ending with a Spotlight Performance on April 6, 2012.

Class Schedule:
Beginning on February 15, 2012 – April 4, 2012
Class: Project House w/JenAy
Day: Wednesdays
Time: 6-7:30
Age: 13+
Price: $10 (13-17 yrs old)
$12 (18+ yrs old)

Website: groovlings.weebly.com/jenay.html#

BAY AREA BEATSHOP

Biography: Ko Wong-Horiuchi was born and raised in the Excelsior district of San Francisco. Together with Noah Frank they have a combined experience of 20+ years playing and producing music. After both Noah and Ko attended San Francisco School of the Arts High School they went on to study music in Boston at Berklee College of Music studying "Contemporary Production and Writing" and "Electronic Production and Design" respectively. Becoming immersed in creating and using alternative musical instruments/controllers to play music, designing custom software for music production, and programming synthesizers gave them a new outlook on production and music in general. After being awarded a grant and a sponsorship from software company Propellerhead in 2010, Ko started a music class for youth at the Community Music Center of Boston.

Class Description: We teach a class that introduces students to composition, piano, music theory, music production and sound design using computers. Although the class is pretty individually intensive, we place a lot of emphasis on collaborating in the studio, making group beats and playing together. We apply some of our software design experience to make collaboration easier and more exciting. In this class you will learn some piano skills, and music theory, as it applies to composition like creating bass lines, melodies, chord progressions, drum parts and synthesizer parts.

Class Schedule:
Class: Digital Recording Music Workshop
Day: Tuesday & Thursday
Time: 5:00 - 7:00pm
Studio: Digital Recording Studio (DRS), 3rd Floor
Age: 12-20
Price: $5

Website: www.beatshoplabs.com/signup./

ZENON BARRON

Biography:Was born and raised in Guanajuato, Mexico where he began his training and love of dance at the age of 12. He studied dance with America Balbuena at the Universidad Autonoma de Guanajuato in 1976. He was honored with being selected to participate in the Cultural Exchange program with Casa Cultural Florencia Italia in 1980. He later became a member of the Ballet Folklorico de la Universidad de Guadalajara under the direction of Carlos Ochoa before deciding to expand his professional dance training by moving to Mexico City. He attended summer classes at the Escuela Nacional de Bellas Artes in 1984 while a earning a degree as a Dancer, then auditioned and accepted to the world famous Ballet Folklorico de Mexico of Amalia Hernandez. He became a member of the resident company in September 1983 and later was promoted to the fist company in January 1984 where he performed throughout Europe, South America and United States of America. In 1992 Mr. Barron moved to San Francisco and the same year he founded and ensemble the Ballet Folklorico of San Francisco.

Class Description:Folkloric dance, like its equivalent English term “folk dance” means dances of the people. It is dance that reflects the traditions, customs, legends, beliefs and lifestyles of people in particular countries or regions. Folkloric dance expresses the life and spirit of people though its movement and music, and with a vitality and immediacy that instantly transport the viewer to the heart of that culture. It is both historical and current, preserving tradition yet shifting with the present times.

Class Schedule:
Class: Mexican Folk Dance
Day: Friday
Time: 5:00 - 7:00pm
Studio: E
Age: 5+
Price: $10

DANNHAE

Biography:Dannhae has been studying and practicing Egyptian style Belly Dance for the past 16 years. She has studied and performed with various Bay Area professional Belly Dance instructors in different settings. In order to expand her knowledge and appreciation of this art form, Dannhae has also attended numerous workshops and lectures given by many nationally and internationally known professional Belly Dancers. She has also collaborated professionally with the well-known Bay Area Middle Eastern musician and band leader Georges Lammam. She currently continues to develop her passion of Middle Eastern dance and music by studying the Arabic language as well as enjoying trips to the Middle East.

Belly Dance for Fitness and Fun! is both a celebration of Middle Eastern dance and music and a call to the dancing spirit of each individual in the class.
In this class students learn the basics of this ancient dance form, from the slow and gentle undulations to fast pulsating rhythms. Through good posture, muscle control, body rolls, hip thrusts, shimmies and turns, students get to experience a holistic way of keeping fit both physically and mentally while having fun!

Class instruction is bilingual (Spanish and English) and previous experience in any other type of dance is not required. Students should wear comfortable clothes suitable for workout and a scarf to be worn around the hips. Shoes are not recommended, however ballet slippers are acceptable. The class is structured in three parts based on the speed of the rhythms - Slow, Medium and Fast — and the total duration of the class is 1 hr and 15 minutes.

Class Schedule:
Class: Belly Dance for Fitness and Fun!
Day: Fridays
Time: 6:15 - 7:30pm
Studio: A
Age: All
Price: $12

MANOLO DAVILA

Biography: Manolo has been a musician in San Francisco for over ten years. His youth was spent in the Mission District, listening to his parents play Bomba, Plena, and musica Jibara from Puerto Rico. From then on he picked up on the Guitar and Percussion along with a whole other set of stringed instruments. He has performed with various groups in the Bay Area scene, such as Mara Reggae (Brazilian), The Next Level, Loco Bloco Percussion Ensemble, Rara Tou Limen, and continues to teach music to urban youth.

Class Description: I will be teaching a beginner/intermediate guitar class geared towards learning basic music theory, guitar technique, and interpretation of classical and popular songs. Students must bring their own guitar and handouts will be regularly given to supplement aspiring guitarists’ development. The minimum age requirement is 10+. Younger students must audition. We will learn 5 songs which will be presented and played at the End of the Semester Show.

Class Schedule:
Days: Thursday & Saturday’s
Time: 6:00-7:00 (Thu)
10:00-11:00 (Sat)
11:00 – 12:00 (Sat)
Studio: C
Ages: All
Price: $15

FERNANDO DESANJINES

Biography:Fernando DeSanjines, has been playing drums professionally for over 40 years. His first Brazilian teacher was Paulo Farias in his native La Paz -Bolivia. In 1986 Fernando joined the Bay Area "Escola Nova de Samba" where he studied and performed for several years with the extraordinary percussionist Chalo Eduardo, as well as other amazing Bay Area musicians such as Dennis Brougton, Michael Spiro, Claudio Amaral, Eddy Soleta, Kim Atkinson, Carolyn Brandy, Carlos Aceituno and the Great Brazilian Master George Rum Alabe.
In 1991, Fernando co-founded his own "Samba do Coracao", awarded best Brazilian Samba School in SF Carnaval 1997 and 1998. The group also performed extensively, including the San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival 1996 and 2000, Alaska State Fair, New Orleans by the Bay Festivals and the International Music Carnival 2005 in Shanghai China among many other events.
Fernando has been teaching in the Bay Area since 1992 and in the MCCLA since 2002 and has trained dozens of drummers over the years.

Class Description:Beginning to Intermediate.
The class focuses on the Samba feel and groove as much as possible. You will learn basic drumming techniques and the fundamentals of Samba and other Brazilian Rhythms. This knowledge with time and dedication will aloud you to develop on your own.
You will also learn the clave concept and some Brazilian songs that make the classes even more interesting and fun.

Instruments: Tamborim, ganza, ago go bell, pandeiro, surdos, caixa, reco-reco, repinique, timbal, congas and triangle. Some instruments available. Intermediate students encourage to bring their own instrument. The class has been performing for the MCCLA end of semester shows for the last four years. Everyone welcome!

Class Schedule:
Class: Samba Jam Brazilian Percussion
Day: Wednesday
Time: 7:15 - 9:00pm
Studio: C
Age: 15+
Price: $10



Other Classes: www.sambadocoracao.com/classes.html
Website: www.fernandodesanjines.com

KERENSA DEMARS

Biography: Kerensa DeMars was captivated by the art of Flamenco while earning her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at the San Francisco Art Institute. With a background in Tribal Style and Butoh dance, her passion for Flamenco led her to Madrid in 1997 where she caught the eye of the renowned world music group Radio Tarifa and toured with them as a featured dancer through 2003. In those six years she continued intensive Flamenco studies with some of Spain's foremost Flamenco artists including the great maestro Toni ‘El Pelao’. Upon returning to San Francisco in 2004 Kerensa became artistic director of the Flamenco Room, a weekly Flamenco show now in its eighth year. Kerensa has performed with Bay Area Flamenco companies including: Theatre Flamenco, Caminos Flamencos, Flamenco Live, Dance Ensemble, and she performed in the San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival. In 2010 Kerensa received a grant from the Azahar Dance Foundation to present ZAHARA, a fusion of Flamenco and Moroccan music and dance at the Cowell Theater and the Mountain View Center for Performing Arts.

Class Description:Beginning Flamenco Dance
Beginning Flamenco dance class is designed to instruct basic techniques including footwork, brazeo, postures, and marking steps. Students will learn about different flamenco styles (palos) as well as rhythm (compas). Heeled shoes required (flamenco shoes, character shoes or low heeled street shoes - check with the instructor if you have questions.)

Class Description:Tribal Belly Dance “Al Andalus”
Tribal “Al Andalus” is a Tribal Style Belly Dance with a Flamenco Flair. This basic belly dance class focuses on Tribal Style technique incorporating Flamenco elements like turns, arm work and posture. A sensual and fun style, this class is a great workout that combines technique with combinations that will culminate in a full choreography.

Class Schedule:
Class: Beginning Flamenco
Day: Monday
Time: 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Studio: E
Age: All
Price: $12

Class: Tribal Belly Dance “Al Andalus”
Day: Monday
Time: 8:00 – 9:00pm
Studio: E
Age: All
Price: $12

NORA DINZELBACHER

Biography:Nora Dinzelbacher received her Master of Dance degree at the National School of Dance, Buenos Aires. Upon graduation in 1973 she joined the Argentina Folk Ballet and was invited to form a dance partnership with the company's Artistic Director, Raul Dinzelbacher from whom she learned Tango and later married.
Nora teaches extensively at universities, colleges and tango associations throughout the United States and Europe and in 1999 was invited to Japan and Germany. She is the co-founder of the Bay Area Tango Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the traditions of Argentine culture.
In 1998, following the termination of Stanford University's Tango Week, Nora teamed up with Bob Moretti as business partners and launched their first Nora's Tango Week. After co-founding Nora's Tango Week — and five years of production — Bob retired from Nora's Tango Week.

Class Description:As a native of Argentina, it is Nora’s mission to share the Argentine culture through tango, one of the most romantic and elegant of the social dances. You’ll learn not only the steps, but also the history, music and etiquette of the dance form, and even some lumfardo (Argentine slang). The technique classes focus on exercises that will improve your balance, posture and style of Tango walking. Men and women will separate for one-hour, followed by half an hour of mixed dancing. You will learn everything from the very basics to the newest colgadas, volcadas and changes of direction.
Please bring your dancing shoes: high heels with straps suggested for women, tango or character shoes with a leather sole for men. Dance sneakers are ok. No tennis shoes please. No partner required.

Class Schedule:
Class: Argentine Tango - Beginner
Days: Monday 6:00 – 7:00pm
Saturday 10:30 – 11:30am
Studio: B
Age: 15+
Price: $12

Class: Argentine Tango - Intermediate
Days: Monday 7:30pm – 9:00pm
Saturday 11:30 – 1:00pm
Studio: B
Age: 15+
Price: $12

BIANKA DOMINGUEZ

Biography: As a lifelong tap dancer, I will be delighted for you to join my class. My fascination with tap dance continues to grow and throughout my dance career I keep current with the latest tap dance steps. During the mid-1800 black slave dances such as the Juba dance was the rise of minstrel shows. The art of tap dance was mixed with the Lindy Hop foot wok during the 1930's. After the 1950's, Jazz dance evolved out of tap dance. I welcome you to take the opportunity and show up for tap dance lessons. Tap shoes can be bought at most dance shops.

Class Description: I offer a unique artistic background in American Tap Dance. Throughout my dance career I have proven to myself that I am able to teach a fun and enjoyable class. I offer two major variations on tap dance such as the Rhythm Jazz tap and Broadway tap. Broadway tap focuses more on the dance, and is widely performed as a part of musical theater. Rhythm tap focuses more on musicality, and is considered to be part of the Jazz tradition. The sound of tap dance is made by shoes with a metal tap on the heel and toe.

Class Schedule:
Class: Tap Dance
Day: Saturday
Time: 12:30 - 1:30
Studio: E
Ages: All
Price: $8

MAISA DUKE

Biography:Born in the America's capital of the African Diaspora, Salvador, Bahia Brazil and as far as she can remember, dancing is what she enjoyed most. She started entering and winning dance contests when her was 10 years old. she immigrated to the U.S. in 1998. she has been teaching dance for over 10 years at MCCLA and in USA. In 2000, she founded Energia do Samba Dance Company. and was crowned the Queen of S.F Carnaval in 2002. Her dream is to share Samba with the world.
She has performed at many celebrity functions, including Robin Williams' 50th birthday and events for the late Christopher Reeves, and former San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown at City Hall, Warriors basketball team, San Francisco Giants games, Academy of Sciences in S.F., California Music World in Oakland, Ethnic Dance Festival, The Queen Mary in L.A, for Pele, The Most Famous Soccer Player in The World, and many, many other events. and today many people and friends all call her The Samba Queen Maisa Duke.

Class Description:In this class, students will combine the fundamentals of the traditional Brazilian samba dance with a full body workout. Students need only exercises clothes and jazz shoes.

The Brazilian Samba Dance Workout technique, requires coordination of many body parts, plus it is rather fast. Yes Samba does require as much coordination of you body parts as posible. So here are some tips for brazilian samba basic technique.

1) Bouncing action is the key for samba basic characterization. Bouncing action is created from bending and straightening of the knees (and compression of ankles) and also raising and lowering of the heel in between the whole counts!

If you want to burn a ridiculous amount of calories while learning how to dance samba like the fit girls in Brazil? Just in time for Carnaval S.F. So come to my Dance Classes in San.Francisco/Oakland and l will be teach you the real Brazilian Samba "no pe" technique and authentic Samba choreography. Samba no pé (literally "samba on your feet") is a high energy dance style that is the most common samba style in Brazil. It is a solo dance that moves with the beat of the bateria drums. This is sure to be the most fun you will have ever experience. Just come a try it out! a great workout!!

Class Schedule:
Class: Brazilian Samba
Day: Friday
Time: 6:30 - 8:00
Studio: B
Ages: All
Price: $12

Class instruction is bilingual (Portugues, English and Spanish)

Website: www.energiadosamba.com

NEO GARCIA

Biography: I was born in Mexico City in a small neighborhood where every weekend was a party. I always loved dancing since I was a young boy. I started with disco, later rap, and then eventually breakdance. At 15 years old, I was attracted to Latin music: salsa, merengue, cha cha, cumbia and more. At 18 years old, I started as choreographer for ‘quinceañeras.’ I later taught aerobics and today, I teach zumba.

Class Description: I love teaching Zumba classes. The reason is simple: every class feels like a party! Come join me and you’ll see what I mean. You don’t even have to know how to dance. Just move your body and follow my lead. It’s easy! Check out my class, you’ll have a blast!

Class Schedule:
Class: Zumba with Neo
Days: Tue/Thu/Fri
Time: 9:00am – 10:00am
Studio: B
Age: All
Price: $10

METZI HENRIQUEZ

Biography:Ms. Henriquez is a graduate of San Francisco’s School of the Arts Dance Department with extensive training in Modern Jazz Blues, Ballet, Jazz,Modern, Pilates and Dance Kinesiology. After years of formal and classical training, Metzi found inspiration in Afro-Latin dances and began training in Afro-Brasilian dance and folklore with Mestre Carlos Aceituno at Mission Cultural Center and performing with Fogo Na Roupa performing company. Currently she is co-artistic director and choreographer of Fogo Na Roupa Grupo Carn avalesco and teaches weekly classes at Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts.

Class Description:Students of all ages and levels are invited to learn the many varieties of Brazilian dance. Accompanied by live percussion, you will dance to the rhythms of Samba Reggae, Samba, Freno, Afro-Bloco and Afro-Brazilian musical forms. Students will learn the fundamentals through warm-up, progressions and exciting Carnaval choreographies.

Class Schedule:
Class: Brazilian Carnaval Dance & Percussion
Days: Saturday
Time: 1:15 – 3:00pm
Studio: B
Age: All
Price: $10

DORA LUZ SANABRIA

Biography: Dora Luz Sanabria M. A. Is a credentialed Creative Arts teacher with the State of California who has taught older adults and adults with disabilities in the Oakland Unified School District and Senior Centers throughout the East Bay. She has also taught children using art, dance, storytelling, music, song and art-therapy for personal growth, use of cognitive skills, joy and healing. She has brought cultural awareness into her classrooms, especially with the art forms of sculpture, paper-cuts and flower making to enhance her students’ understanding and meaning of Altars for the Day of the Dead festivities. As a performing artist, she has used many cultural dance modes to perform in many venues, including MCC cultural parades. She works diligently and creatively with the Spanish speaking community supporting art and music/choral events and currently teaches art at the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts.

Class Description:
We’ll be working with multimedia creative art methods using a variety of materials i.e. paints, textiles, paper, clay, flour (for paper machete), paper-cuts, flower making, and other type of art forms.

Class Schedule:
Class: Art & Crafts for Children
Day: Saturday
Time: 10:00 – 11:00
Studio: D
Ages: 5-12
Price: $10

Class: Creative Growth through Art
Day: Saturday
Time: 11:00 – 12:00
Studio: D
Ages: 13+
Price: $10

JAIME MARTINEZ

Biography:Jaime Martinez has been a professional dance artist and teacher for over 15 years. He is one of San Francisco's most sought after instructors. Jaime Martinez is a Certified Aerobic Instructor from CSU-Hayward, a member of International Dance Exercise Association and Aerobics and Fitness Association of America. He is the designer and owner of Latin American Workout headquartered in San Francisco, CA.
Jaime conducts master classes and training workshops throughout the United States, Central America and Europe. He has also founded and directs Pan American Dance Company, which offers a full repertoire of dance entertainment, popular, modern, folkloric, ballroom and extravaganza performances.

Class Description:Jaime A. Martinez's Personal Training Service provides a one-on-one workout in a supportive and non-competitive atmosphere. He will teach you how to use exercise equipment, free weights and the body's own resistance to improve flexibility, increase endurance, strengthen muscles and improve your metabolism.
Jaime will help you to develop proper form, breathing, warm-ups, cool downs, flexibility and injury prevention.
Dance! – An alternative to Conventional Person Training: Jaime A. Martinez is a professional dancer and choreographer as well as a certified aerobics instructor. He can fashion a workout program tailored to your personal tastes incorporating dance steps and the exercise techniques used by professional dancers to stay limber and prevent injury. Learn dance steps while you get in shape: Jaime teaches samba, cha cha cha, rumba, salsa, mambo, tango and more. Jaime can also design a program similar to the barre or center exercises used in ballet, modern or jazz dance disciplines.

Class Schedule:
Class: J'aime Salsa International
Days: Tuesday
Time: 7:30 – 8:30pm
8:30 - 9:30pm
Studio: A
Age: All
Price: $10

VICTOR MIJANGO

Biography:From over 27 years of experience in providing knowledge in the art of tae kwon do. Especially for all who want to know and practice, physical training both mental and especially full of philosophical values such as respect, integrity, morality and so is the discipline of true martial art. The practice has both theoretical and practical, given in practice for the personal use and self defense. The Monday class is 5 to 7 pm and Wednesdays from 4 to 6 pm. There are also degrees or gradations of color change of belts according to their progress in practice.

Class Description:The class is theoretical in the sense of teaching principles of morality, and in particular respect and practice. I would like to teach my students what the name of tae kwon do means and the history in general.

Class Schedule:
Class: Tae Kwon Do
Days: Monday 5:00 - 7:00pm
Tuesday 4:00 - 6:00pm
Saturday 3:00 - 5:00pm
Studio: A(Mon & Tue), E(Sat)
Age: All
Price: $10

MOISES ANTONIO MORA

Biography:Moises Antonio Mora was born in Managua, Nicaragua on October 12, 1978 to Filomena Marcela Mora and Manuel Salvador Mora. He grew up in Masaya and Granada, Nicaragua until the age of 7 when his family moved to California. Moises has shown a love for art since his early childhood, a love that has led him to study Fashion Design at CCSF in San Francisco, CA. During his teenage years, he started to dance Nicaraguan folk dance and learned dance teaching techniques by traveling to Nicaragua. With the help of his mother, Filomena, he formed the Group Sacuanjoche. With this group, Moises has had the opportunity to teach both children and adults and has been able to give perfomances throughout all of California. Now, with 15 years of teaching expereience in various styles of dance, he is focusing on teaching Nicaragua's traditional dances. Moises always strives for excellence in all aspects of his life including school, work and teaching.

Class Schedule:
Class: Nicaraguan Folklore
Days: Friday
Time: 7:00 - 8:30pm
Studio: E
Age: All
Price: $10

RAUL NEVAREZ

Class Description:This class focuses on an introduction to Capoeira through movement and traditional rhythmic steps. The first 40 minutes will be spent learning the basics and fundamentals. The next hour is spent exercising and practicing the movements and kicks, the most important aspects of this art form. Students will learn a series of attack sequences and improve self-defense. Each class will conclude with a group circle where students clap, sing, play music and rehearse the movements they have just learned.

Class Schedule:
Class: Nicaraguan Folklore
Days: Tue / Thu
Time: 6:30 - 8:00pm
Studio: B
Age: 17+(Tue) 13-17(Thu)
Price: $10

CAMILLA GURUN

Biography: Gurun received an MFA in Printmaking from Pratt Institute and two BA degrees at the University of California at Santa Cruz; one in Art History and Visual Culture and the other in Studio Art. She worked at the Lower East Side Printshop in Manhattan, New York, editioning prints and teaching classes. She has extensive knowledge of screen, intaglio, letterpress, mono-print and relief printmaking. Gurun currently lives and works in San Francisco, California.

Class Schedule:
Class: Beginning Screen-Printing
Days: Monday
Time: 6:00 - 9:00pm
Studio: MG
Age: All
Price: $15

MOMO LEBAU

Biography: Momo Lebeau – a dance instructor, performer and choreographer throughout the Bay Area -- teaches packed classes at the popular New Style Motherlode dance studio in Oakland, and at multiple venues throughout the Bay Area. Momo’s dynamic and electric style is generating a buzz – so much so that he was selected for The Vegas Week in “So You Think You Can Dance” (Season 8), auditioned for and invited to join the cast of Cirque de Soleil, “Michael Jackson Immortal Tour” (2012 Season), and was also selected from a pool of many talented dancers at the audition to be the understudy dancer for Lady Gaga.

Class Description: I teach a high energy class that challenges students with choreography while making hip hop fun. The class begins with a set warm-up to increase blood flow, gain knowledge of basic steps and body alignment, and to increase strength and flexibility. We then move into a dynamic routine which is continuously broken down throughout the class. As class winds down, we wrap up with a cool down and stretching.
I’m known for my passionate teaching style which makes my classes very popular and my goal is to teach in a non-intimidating way so that all levels of dance abilities can relate and enjoy my class. I also incorporate performance techniques and tips on most effective ways to engage an audience in my curriculum. I not only teach the dance steps, but also the art of performance itself.
My hope is that students will learn fresh technique involving the most current dance trends and popular hip-hop music and to ensure the experience makes a positive impact in their lives.

Class Schedule:
Thursdays 6:00-7:30pm in STUDIO B
8 Week Workshop beginning February 16, 2012 through April 5, 2012.
$10/class (13-17 yrs old)
$12/class (18+ yrs old)
Advanced registration is encouraged and students should attend all 8 classes if they want to perform.
There will be a special Spotlight Performance after the Workshop TBA.

ALFONSO OCHOA

Class Description:This class aims to teach piano basics. With an emphasis on rhythm, harmony and note-reading, students will gain a grasp on the musical beauty of the piano. Students will learn techniques for playing both alone or in groups or orquestras. The class focuses on both classic and contemporary music.

Class Schedule:
Class: Keyboard / Piano
Days: Monday
Time: 4:00 - 6:00pm
Studio: D
Age: All
Price: $5

RUSSEL PACHMAN

Biography:Russell Pachman received a BFA from California Institute of the Arts. He has been teaching at MCCLA since 2007. He is represented by Geras Tousignant Gallery in San Francisco.

Class Description:In this class, students may learn a variety of printmaking techniques including mono-print, etching, and linocut. Printmakers of all levels are welcome. No prior printmaking experience is necessary. Participants work independently at their own pace with individual instruction. All participants will receive basic studio and press safety instructions prior to printing.
For monoprint, students are required to bring suitable cotton rag printmaking paper.
For etching and linocut, in addition to printmaking paper, students are required to bring a zinc or copper plate to etch, or a piece of regular or battleship linoleum. If the linoleum hasn't been carved yet, personal tools must be brought to work with.

Class Schedule:
Class: Etching & Mono Printing
Days: Tuesday
Time: 6:00 - 9:00pm
Studio: MG
Age: 18+
Price: $15

BRENDA PERDUE

Biography: Hey Zumba fans! My name is Brenda Perdue. I am excited and always energized to provide a Zumba fitness workout for my students. I was born and raised in San Francisco, 1st generation Salvadorian, and bilingual. I have a strong background in music, instruments, dance, and grew up performing. I incorporate a variety of ethnic beats when providing my Zumba fitness routines. My most important goal is that my students have fun and don’t realize the hour long work out.

Class Description: Zumba class integrates Latin and internationally inspired music and dance movements, creating an exciting, truly universal fitness routine. Zumba fitness combines fast and slow rhythms that tones, sculpts the body, and burns calories and fat using an aerobic/fitness approach to achieve a unique blended balance of cardio and muscle-toning benefits. Adults/Couples/ Families (mature youth 10+) serious about having fun, getting your body, mind, and souls back to health are welcome. Cross training or dance tennis shoes, water, and a towel/wash cloth recommended!

Class Schedule: Zumba for Fitness & Fun
Day: Monday
Time: 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Studio: A
Age: 10+
Price: $10

SERGIO RANGEL

Biography:Sergio Rangel is an experienced weight-lifter and fitness Instructor. In 2007, he earned his Zumba teaching credential in Mexico City, and he’s been teaching Zumba ever since. His most dedicated students have discovered how to move in new ways, cross-trained for other sports, and above all, have smiled throughout these sweaty workouts. Sergio is dedicated to creating enjoyable workout sessions and helping his students improve their lifestyles.
His e-mail is: latinserch@hotmail.com

Class Description:Zumba is a dance fitness program. The class combines a fusion of Latin and International music that creates a dynamic, exciting and effective fitness system. The Zumba workout provides fitness benefits because its routines feature interval training sessions with fast and slow rhythms in addition to resistance training: intended to tone and sculpt the body while burning fat. Music is the key ingredient to Zumba classes. The score, created with specific beats and tempo changes, transitions the workout from one toning, strengthening or cardio move to another, thus targeting every major muscle group in the body. The Zumba program borrows Latin flavor from dance styles such as, Cumbia, Salsa, Merengue, Mambo, Reggaeton, Samba, and Hip hop music, it is offered through a licensed instructor. There is no material requirement for this class. Students only need exercise clothing and tennis shoes.

Class Schedule:
Class: Mix Zumba
Days: Tuesday
Time: 6:00 - 7:00pm
Studio: A
Age: 10+
Price: $10

JOSE RIVERA

Biography:Jose Rivera began his studies of Afro-Latin music and culture in his native Lima, Peru. He encompasses various forms of folkloric rhythms of Latin America, Africa, and the Caribbean. Jose Rivera is currently directing Fogo Na Roupa Grupo Carnavalesco Cultural dedicated to the legacy of founder, Mestre Carlos Aceituno. The award winning Fogo Na Roupa consists of a performing company and a Grupo Carnavalesco (Carnaval Contingent) of upto 200 participants of all ages, and backgrounds.

Class Description:The class will focus on Afro-Brazilian percussion and movement techniques to prepare students for parading. The instructor will provide all instruments. By the end of the term, each student will have an introductory understanding of the various rhythms and dances of Afro-Brazilian culture, with a strong emphasis on the styles from the annual celebration of Brazilian Carnival. All ages and levels welcome!

Class Schedule:
Class: Brazilian Carnaval Dance & Drum
Days: Tuesday
Time: 8:00 - 9:30pm
Studio: B
Age: All
Price: $10

CALIXTO ROBLES

Biography:Calixto Robles was born in Oaxaca, Mexico. He is a painter, printer, and sculptor .. His work, which is inspired by the myths and symbols of the ancient traditions of Mexico, has been exhibited in galleries in Mexico, America, and France. Robles has been a member of the Society of Printmakers of California since 1993 and has taught silk – screen at Mission Grafica since 1992. For more information check, www.calixtorobles.com

Class Description:This class is open to everyone from beginner to advanced screen printer working on paper and textiles. Students will learn all the aspects of screen printing from preparation of positives, to screen preparation, burning of images, registration and printing of one or multicolor images. Students should bring paper or textiles, masking tape, and water soluble inks. Studio provides instruction, reclaiming area, screens (used on site), emulsion (for one small screen), exposure unit, and studio space.

Class Schedule:
Class: Screen-Printing - Textile/Paper
Days: Thursday
Time: 6:00 - 9:00pm
Studio: 14+
Age: All
Price: $15

Class: Screen-Printing - Paper
Days: Saturday
Time: 11:00 - 2:00pm
Studio: MG
Age: 14+
Price: $15

LOUIE ROMERO

Biography:Latin percussion legend Louie Romero first came to salsa fan’s attention on recordings with Willie Colon, Hector Lavoe, Ruben Blades, Celia Cruz and on dozen’s of other classic Fania record releases. Now living in San Francisco, Romero leads Grupo Mazacote, one of the areas most respected Salsa and Latin Jazz ensembles. He and his group just released an album, Timbalero.
Make sure to bring your own Instruments.

Class Description:Basic Latin percussion is a class based on the fundamentals of playing congas, bongos, timbales, maracas, claves and guiro. Students must bring his or her own instruments to class.

Class Schedule:
Class: Basic Latin Percussion
Days: Thursday
Time: 7:00 - 8:30pm
Studio: C
Age: All
Price: $12

Website: www.louieromero.com

MERCEDES ROMERO

Biography:Mercedes Romero, is the instructor for the Digital Photography Fundamental Workshop. Mercedes has a BA in Communications; she has worked as a photojournalist, commercial and clinical photographer and has being teaching Digital Photography for over 8 years.

Class Description:Digital Photography Fundamentals is a 12 hour Workshop. This class is designed for beginning photographers. It will cover the principles of composition and lighting, basic settings and functions, understanding ISO, f/stops, shutter speeds, lenses, exposure basics, flash and color temperature, and do's and don'ts in picture taking. All types of cameras, compacts, and DSLR are suitable.

Class Schedule:
Class: Digital Photography
Days: Monday
Time: 7:00-9:00pm
Studio: D
Age: All
Price: $150 (paid in advance for 12hrs/6wk)

NORM ROSENBERGER

Biography:Norm Rosenberger is the instructor for the Friday Night Life Drawing class at MCCLA. Norm’s brief list of interests include the studies of drawing , composition, painting , sculpture, printmaking , Screen print , photography, filmmaking and artistic materials, all of which have provided him with the basics to understand the visual language of art. After working towards a BFA at the University of Oregon , and spending a summer with the Yale Music and Art program, Norm completed his MFA in painting and drawing at Stanford University.

Class Description:Life Drawing is for beginning to advanced students who want to sharpen their abilities to see and draw through an artist’s perspective. The creative and challenging poses of live models will allow students to improve and perfect their drawing skills. Each drawing session begins with several one-minute and two minute gesture poses followed by a break to view work and stretch. Next we will work with 5 minute and 10 minute poses, followed by another break which should be utilized as an opportunity to criticize one’s own work. The remaining time will be filled with twenty-minute poses. While students generally direct their own exploration of drawing, the teacher provides advice upon request.

Class Schedule:
Class: Life Drawing
Days: Friday
Time: 6:00 - 8:30pm
Studio: D
Age: 18+
Price: $8

MARSHA SHAW

Biography:Marsha Shaw received her MFA in printmaking in 2007 at California College of the Arts in San Francisco. She has lectured and taught courses in bookmaking and printmaking at California College of the Arts, San Francisco Center for the Book, Museum of Children’s Art, Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Center for Visual Arts at Stanford University, Richmond Art Center and is an adjunct faculty member at De Anza College in Cupertino California and is currently the coordinator for Mission Grafica. Shaw’s prints and artist books have been exhibited both nationally and internationally.

Class Description:This workshop will introduce students to the stencil printmaking method of screen-printing. Students will learn various image making methods including paper stencils, monotype techniques, drawing fluid techniques, screen filler, frottage and direct emulsions photographic stencils.  Students will work with color in multi-run editions and become familiar with the mark-making possibilities of screen-printing, while expressing and expanding on their personal style and conceptual concerns.  This class will include printing on paper and textiles. Beginning and advanced students are welcomed.

Class Schedule:
Class: Screen-Printing - Textile/Paper
Days: Tuesday
Time: 6:00 - 9:00pm
Studio: MG
Age: 17+
Price: $15

DANICA “La Mora” SENA

Biography:Danica Sena Gakovich is an internationally-known performer and teacher of Flamenco and Spanish dance. She has performed throughout the U.S., Asia, Europe and South America receiving critical acclaim for work. She is the founder and artistic director of Andanza Spanish Arts company and since 2000 has premiered over 50 original programs/works including the highly-acclaimed sold out performance of "Aire y Gracia" at Theater Artaud/ODC in 2008 and "Pergoleto" at Dance Mission Theater in 2009. In 2009 Ms. Sena Gakovich performed at the SF Opera's Opening Night Season Gala celebration at City Hall and was one of the featured performers in Counterpulse's "Performing Diaspora" festival. She appeared as featured soloist in Kansas City Ballet's 2009 version of "Carmen."

Class Description:Class is focused on an in-depth understanding of Flamenco rhythms and music through basic exercises, combinations, vocabulary and styles.  Technical aspects include: palmas and taconeo (percussive hand-clapping and footwork), hand, arm and torso placement, turns, emotion, energy and expression.  Beginners welcome.  Adult men/women.  Please wear Flamenco shoes/boots, character shoes or low-heeled dress shoes.  Women please bring a skirt.

Class Schedule:
Class: Flamenco
Days: Tuesday
Time: 7:00 - 8:00pm & 8:00 - 9:00pm
Studio: E
Age: All
Price: $12

ELIZABETH SOBERANES

Biography:Elizabeth Soberanes holds a bachelors degree in Dance Ethnology from SFSU; and has been teaching Rhythm and Motion's fusion rhythms dance workout since 2001. She is a graduate of the Performing Arts Workshop Artist-in-Residence Program and a student of Dunham Technique, modern, Hip Hop, Jazz, Haitian, Brazilian and Cuban dance forms. She has worked with several local dance companies, performed on stage in Carnaval San Francisco and in 2001 was crowned Queen of SF Carnaval. She traveled to Brazil in 2000 and to Cuba in 2001 & 2008 to study dance and participate in their Carnaval celebrations. She regularly travels to New York and Miami to study dance, and most recently, began studying Patricia Moreno's IntenSati Mind/Body Workout.

Class Description:Immerse yourself in an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary Latin dance and music certain to stir your soul! Experience a variety of exhilarating Latin Dance generes including Brazilian Samba, Afro-Cuban, Salsa, Timba, Reggaeton, Mambo, Cha Cha, Meringue, Jazz and more, all in a fun and supportive atmosphere!  Classes begin with a juicy warm-up, that includes core abdominal work and stretching to prepare the body to move. The class continues with luscious center floor combinations and rhythmic isolations which eventually build into sizzling sequences drawing from a variety of spicy Latin dance styles. The class concludes with a yoga-inspired cool-down.  All students are welcome to this multi-level, Spanish bi-lingual class.

Guest Instructor:- Bianca Coleman has been dancing since the age of 7 when she began studying classical ballet at the SF Academy of Ballet. By the age of 9 she began studying and performing Brazilian dance and since then discovered that dance was her true passion. She participated in SF Carnaval for 11 years and performed and choreographed with various Brazilian dance companies in the Bay Area. For 10 years, Bianca has been studying Afro-Cuban dance and performing in SF with various instructors. She is a founding member of Emese: MOTAD, an Oakland based dance collective founded 1998. Bianca has 15 years of teaching experience and currently co-teaches Afro-Cuban dance on Sundays at the Malonga Center for the Arts.

Class Schedule:
Class: Latin Dance Grooves
Days: Monday
Time: 6:00 - 7:30pm
Studio: B
Age: All
Price: $12

JUAN DE DIOS SOTO

Biography: Peruvian dancer, musician, and founder of Tradicion Peruana Cultural Center, Juan de Dios Soto has taught and performed Cajon and Afro-Peruvian percussion since came to the United States in 1991 from Lima, Peru. As part of his cultural traditions Juan was raised playing the Cajon with his family and community. Today he is the musical director of Jaranon y Bochinche dance Performance Company and teaches classes to students and musicians throughout the Bay Area. Juan has led his group to participate in San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival, Theater Artaud, Encuentro Popular, and at many other Bay Area venues. Juan also created and directed two well received dance and music performances, “Windows to the World” and “Raices Negras”. Juan teaches Cajon classes and workshops to all ages throughout the Bay Area, at schools, Universities, community and cultural centers. His dynamic teaching style and passion for sharing his cultural roots and music comes has inspired students to study with Juan and develop their percussive skills under his direction.

Class Description: The Afro-Peruvian percussion class with Juan de Dios Soto includes learning basic and intermediate rhythms on the Cajon drum and minor percussive instruments. Through use of the Cajon, percussive rhythms, songs and choreography are taught allowing students to begin to embrace the music of Afro-Peru. Students have the opportunity to learn a variety of Afro-Peruvian genres, including Festejo, Lando and Zamacueca. All levels welcome. The class participates in the end of semester performance.

Class Schedule:
Class: Afro Peruvian Cajon
Day: Saturdays
Time: 3:30-4:30
Studio: C
Age: All
Price: $10

LYDIA SOTO

Biography: Lydia Soto is a choreographer a dancer in “Jaranon y Bochinche”, an Afro-Peruvian dance group that belongs to a well-known non-profit organization called Tradicion Peruana Cultural Center.
Lydia was born in Lima, Peru. She was introduced to dance by her older sister at a very young age. She moved to San Francisco, California in 1993 and became the choreographer and co-founder of Tradicion Peruana Cultural Center, a center dedicated to promote Peruvian Culture.
As a choreographer, Ms. Soto has staged most of the genres of Afro Peruvian dance in different theaters. She has performed extensively as a soloist for Jaranon y Bochinche and with other Afro Peruvian dancers and musicians. Lydia has performed at a variety of venues including La Pena Theater in Berkeley, Artaud, San Francisco State University, Black Repertory Theater, ODC Theater, etc.
Lydia has and continues to inspire children, youth and adults at MCCLA and everywhere else she has danced and taught dance.

LATIN RYTHMS FOR KIDS: This class is a combination of salsa, merengue, reggeton, cumbia and other Latin dances. This class begins with some warm-up exercises to develop muscles and technique. It is followed by rhythm exercises and instruction to specific dance choreography to Latin rhythms.

AFRO-PERUVIAN CLASS: This class teaches students Afro-Peruvian dance. It begins with warm-up exercises, and continues by teaching basic dance moves of different Afro-Peruvian dances, such as Festejo, Lando, Alcatraz, etc. It also teaches coordination techniques and movements. This class can be for beginners and intermediate Afro-Peruvian dancers.

Class Schedule:
Class: Afro-Peruvian Dance
Day: Thursday
Time: 8:00-9:00pm
Studio: A
Age: All
Price: $10

Class: Latin Rhythms for Kids
Day: Saturdays
Time: 2:30-3:30pm
Studio: A
Age: 6-15
Price: $8

OMAR VAZQUEZ

Biography:Professional Ballet Dancer and Choreographer. Graduated of Cuban National Ballet School, in 1978. Grand Prix in the International Ballet Competition, Varna, Bulgaria in 1979.Trained in Saint Petersburg, Russia until 1985. Worked with some many ballet companies of world as soloist and guess Dancer and played some many important rolls. In 1989 get bachelor degree diploma in Ballet and Choreography direction in The Superior Institute of Art, Habana, Cuba. Ballet teacher and ballet Master for some many years.
Joined as Ballet Instructor of MCCLA in 2004 until actually days. He founded owner Ballet Company in 2009 “Omar’s miniature Ballet”. The Ballet Program was divided in four sections: Pre- Ballet Group A for children with 6 and 7 years old Pre – Ballet Group B for children with 4 and 5 years old, Ballet Level I and II for children at 8 to 14 years old and OMBC. The OMBC program was created for student with Ballet Level III and advanced, with exceptional talent for to dance.
For more information visit the webpage: www.omrminballet.com where you can read more about complete OMBC’s program.

Class Description:Classes are divided into two sections. The first consists of physical training which will help the student strengthen the muscle groups necessary for ballet. The second section focuses more on academic technique, or the actual steps and positions of the dance form. The class primarily focuses on positions of the hands, feet, legs and head. In more advanced levels, students will learn turns and jumps through impersonation and other visual instruction. Please bring: a leotard and ballet slippers. For women with long hair: please wear it up and in a tight bun.

Class Schedule:
Class: Pre-Balle
Days: Thursday
Time: 6:00 - 7:00pm
Studio: A
Age: 4-5
Price: $10

Class: Balle
Days: Thursday
Time: 7:00 - 8:00pm
Studio: A
Age: 4-14
Price: $10

Class: OMB (Mini-Ballet)
Days: Saturday
Time: 10:00 - 11:00am
Studio: A
Age: Level 3
Price: $10