Frequently Asked Questions

What is SalsaCraze?

SalsaCraze is one of the largest student organizations at the University of Miami. It was founded over a decade ago and our primary objective is to instruct anyone and everyone in the ways of Casino style Salsa. We have a fun loving inclusive culture and want to enable people to implement what they learn relatively quickly while still achieving technical mastery over the dance.

What’s a typical lesson like?

We arrange into 5 circles (ruedas) depending on level. The group lesson begins. There are 4 to 5 songs played per hour. Then, we repeat the same structure for the intermediate hour.

How much does it cost?

$25 per semester. Approximately 13 weeks, two lessons per week. Average dance school prices range from $8-$12 per lesson depending on membership type.

Do I have to be a student to join?

Officially, I think so. Unofficially our membership has been open to everyone.

Do I need a partner?

No, since we dance in a big circle and are constantly switching, no partner is necessary. If you want to bring someone, great, but you won’t stay with them the whole night.

What if I don’t dance?

That’s fine. I don’t dance either. I got made fun of for like two years when I started. Now I make fun of those people who made fun of me while I triple spin in their presence to make them dizzy.

What if my grandmother taught me salsa and I’m like amazing already. Can I become an instructor or start in like super advanced level 10?

No. Being located in Miami we attract a variety of people who have varying degrees of Latin dance experience. Some more than others. Some much less than they thought. Since we have a syllabus, hand signs, named moves, and a general order of things, it is best to progress through our levels, learn everything and take it from there.

What time and where are classes?

Classes start at 7:00PM on Wednesdays and 6:00PM on Fridays. The first hour is beginner’s, the second intermediate, the third (Friday only; still figuring this out) usually advanced, sometimes Bachata. I believe we will be located primarily in two places this semester. The Multipurpose room of the BankUnited Center’s Fieldhouse and the Storm Surge Café on the first floor of the University Center. Please check https://www.facebook.com/groups/SalsaCraze as we post events, location changes, and other pertinent information.

What if I miss a class? Do I have to come Wednesdays and Fridays?

You do not have to attend every session. Our classes are structured so that every single time there are beginners levels 1 thru 5, intermediate 1 thru 5, and so on. Theoretically you could start the last week. You do not have to come both days per week. You can join at any point during the semester. It is beneficial, but not necessary.

Do you get paid?

No. Our board is comprised of students and our instructor corps are volunteers.

How do I dress?

Dress comfortably. You may sweat so keep proper hygiene in mind. Sneakers do not perform well because they stick to the floor. Leather, suede, plastic, and wood bottom shoes are best. No flip flops please.

How long does it take to get good?

Good is a relative term. Someone with even the slightest musical inkling and coordination can manage to bring some pride to our club in about 1 year coming twice per week and practicing 1 other day on their own or with a partner. Some people are gifted and look good after two weeks.

Are there a lot of place to go out dancing in Miami?

Yes

Do you do other types of dances?

As you progress and start hitting the streets you’ll notice that more than just Salsa is being played. To keep you happy and coming back we do regularly teach Bachata. Merengue takes about 1 minute to learn, and cha cha cha isn’t too common here in Miami so we usually don’t teach that. Sometimes we’ll have an LA Style Salsa workshop as that is the predominant style of Salsa in the world, but it is usually best to stick with one style for a year or two before confusing yourself.

Are there events during the semester?

Our events include: after lesson parties, winter social, end of year banquet, beach day, Halloween party, and weekend workshops. We also attend en mass other events like Dancing with the U Stars, football games, and certain other events.

Is this a good place to meet the guy/girl of my dreams?

Yes and no. There are a ton of people that you get to interact with and touch and talk to on a weekly basis, so we offer a unique opportunity there. You may become so engrossed in salsa that the thought of dating a non-dancer is abhorrent. On the other hand, you may prefer to keep those two realms separate so that your significant other doesn’t know all the sordid details about nightlife. Single people really enjoy the freedom and flexibility of dancing with whoever however with no repercussions. Couples develop great chemistry and are always guaranteed a partner.

Where can I see all the moves?

Here: http://www.salsacraze.org/um/Site/Content/?c=Syl3 and then you can search for the videos here: https://www.youtube.com/user/medianochesalsa

What is the demographic of attendees like?

Naturally quite a few college aged. Every major, undergrad, overgrad, and nevergrad. Here’s a rough guesstimate.

50%	13%	27%	10%
18-22	23-27	28-32	33+