Salsa y Sol brings Latin dancing to Winchester Discovery Centre, running social classes that draw a friendly, mixed-ability crowd. Several dancers describe arriving nervous after a long break and quickly feeling at ease among a welcoming group. The classes are praised as much for their good humour as for their teaching. For anyone in the city keen to try salsa, this is a well-established starting point.
Held at the Discovery Centre in the heart of Winchester, the sessions focus on partner-based Latin dance in a relaxed group setting. Pupils of every level mix together, and you are not expected to bring your own partner.
Salsa classes in Winchester form the core of the timetable, with the basic step and timing taught from scratch so newcomers can settle in fast. These adult dance classes in Winchester welcome people who have never danced before, and partners are rotated so everyone gets plenty of practice. Beyond salsa, dance lessons in Winchester here suit those who enjoy a sociable, exercise-led evening as much as the dancing itself. While the school's own focus is Latin, people searching more widely for dance classes in Winchester, line dancing in Winchester or even ballet classes in Winchester will find this a good place to ask about what fits them.
You can turn up without a partner and without any experience, as the class is built around rotation and starting from the basics. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that let you turn, and be ready to enjoy the social side as much as the steps.
The Discovery Centre sits on Jewry Street in central Winchester, a short walk from the city's shops and cathedral.
Max and Silvie are amazing. It was with knocking knees and a large lump in my throat that I took the step to get back into dancing after a very long break last year. Not only are their groups welcoming and well run but they are also encouraging and resourceful, helping all sorts of dancers from all sorts of back grounds to learn and have fun! Walking through the door and joining their group was one of the best things I have ever done! Doesn't matter if you have two left feet and the rhythm of a goldfish or if you have danced before and want to get back into it. Max and Silvie are just the tick— Paddydou Sharratt
I have now danced with Silvia and Max for more than a year and I love it, not only is it a great form of exercise but it is also a good laugh. Everyone is helpful and it doesn't matter what level you are on. Come and give it a go, you do not even need to bring your own dance partner.— Janne Hansen
I have been going to dance lesson with Silvia and Max for 2 and a half years. They have taught me so much, I have made lots of new friends and most of all I have had fun doing it. Their dance parties are also amazing. Couldn't recommend more!!!— Catherine Koehler
I hadn't danced for years when I first went to Max & Slivia Salsa class. They were welcoming, patient and FUN. My confidence grew through joining the class and I made lots of friends. Highly recommended— Russ Chapman
The basic step is simple to learn, and the timing becomes second nature with a little regular practice. Most beginners feel comfortable after a handful of classes.
Yes, salsa is a popular first dance for people with no experience at all. Classes begin at the very beginning, so you will not be left behind.
Ballet can be taken up at any age, with many schools running classes designed for adult beginners. This particular school specialises in Latin dance, so ask locally about ballet provision.
There is no age at which recreational ballet becomes off-limits. People take it up throughout adulthood for fitness and enjoyment.
Frequently used steps include the grapevine, the step-touch, the kick-ball-change, the pivot turn and the shuffle. They combine to form most beginner routines.
The easiest dances use short sequences that repeat, so you master a few counts and go from there. A teacher can start you on a simple, forgiving routine.