Salsa Machine Dance Company runs salsa classes in Harpenden, welcoming absolute beginners as well as those with some dancing behind them. Sessions typically split between technique and choreography, so you learn both the how and the flow of the dance. It suits anyone after a fun, sociable way into Latin dancing locally.
People describe a warm, welcoming pair of hosts and a club that invests real time in its dancers. One beginner couple found the opening technique part easy to follow and great fun, with the moves that followed more of a challenge but just as enjoyable. The recurring theme is strong foundations taught in a friendly, unhurried spirit.
The core offering is salsa, structured so that technique comes first and dance moves build on top, which suits people who like to understand the basics properly. As part of the wider range of dance classes in Harpenden, it gives beginners a genuine grounding rather than just a routine to copy. Those in the area also weighing ballet classes or ballroom dancing in Harpenden will find this a sociable, confidence-building place to begin.
A newcomer can expect the evening eased in with fundamentals before anything trickier, and hosts happy to help if something does not click. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes you can pivot in smoothly, and simply turn up ready to learn. No partner or prior experience is required.
Classes are held at a community venue in Harpenden, convenient for dancers across the town and nearby Hertfordshire.
I came to my first Salsa Machine Thursday class just over a year ago, after a colleague at work recommended it. She spoke highly of the teachers and although she danced some distance away, had heard about the club. I used to ballet dance semi-professionally, but after an injury, gave it up and hadn’t danced for almost 10 years. I missed dancing so much and this sounded like something with lower impact on my joints, that I might be able to do. The quality of the teaching was really important to me – if I'm going to do something, I want to do it properly! That and the passion my colleague had ab— Lisa-Marie Marks
We were absolute beginners when we started Salsa Machine. Ben and Maria (the hosts) were really friendly and welcoming. We found the first part-lesson on technique was easy to follow and great fun. The second part-lesson, armography and dance moves, was more challenging, but also great fun. Then the dance session, which followed, allowed us to practice. The teachers were all very helpful, patient and encouraging, in a really friendly atmosphere. We couldn’t ask for more. Paying monthly gave exceptional value for 3+ hours. We definitely give Salsa Machine Dance Club a 5 star rating.— Jeff Nelson
Salsa Machine is an organisation which has built strong dance foundations passing them down to their students in a fun, warm and very friendly environment which draw a lot of people to their classes. A place where the teachers take time to invest in their students dancing through their own experiences which they are constantly developing; a place that show they care about their students learning; and a place their students can see their own development. I love Thursday nights where I can get my salsa fix and go to home with a smile.— Xyz Velo x
I really cannot rate Ben highly enough! I always leave my lessons with him so happy and like I've really achieved something and have so much fun during the lessons. Ben has helped me progress quite quickly with his great teaching techniques and good humour. If someone has told me I would be able to salsa this well within 4 months I never would have believed them! I absolutely love it! 😁💃— Camilla Smith
A beginners' group class is the natural first step, teaching the basic holds and steps from the ground up. You can then add more dances as you find your feet.
Many people begin with the waltz for its clear, steady rhythm, though a social foxtrot is another common opener. Your teacher will usually recommend a first dance to suit you.
Yes, adult ballet classes are made for people starting later in life. Progress comes at your own pace, along with improved strength and posture.
No age is too late to take up ballet for enjoyment and fitness. Adults of every age join in and benefit from it.
Yes, many people start alone. Partner classes rotate dancers around the room, so you are never left needing to bring someone.
Comfortable clothes you can move freely in and shoes with a smooth sole are all you need. Bring water too if the session is an energetic one.