our tier system
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Selecting the correct skill level is the key to your success in dance! At Salsa With Silvia, we call levels TIERS and we are here to guide you weather you are just starting or have previous experience.
NEWCOMER
Note: No experience or consultation needed to register for Tier 0 classes.
FREE TRIAL SALSA & BACHATA MIX
This series is for those who have no previous experience in salsa dancing. Students will be learning the crucial basic steps that are foundation for all partnering and footwork that come in the next level classes. During the series, students will learn how to switch from one move to another and practice basic partnering patterns. This series also focuses on musicality, rhythm, lead and follow techniques.
No partner or experience necessary.
4-WK SERIES: INTRO TO SALSA ON 1
This series is for those who have no previous experience in salsa dancing. Students will be learning the crucial basic steps that are foundation for all partnering and footwork that come in the next level classes. During the series, students will learn how to switch from one move to another and practice basic partnering patterns. This series also focuses on musicality, rhythm, lead and follow techniques.
No partner or experience necessary.
This series is for students who have never taken Bachata classes before and want to explore this beautiful dance style. Beginner Bachata covers musicality, rhythm, dancing on beat, basic lead & follow techniques, basic steps and turns in Bachata, basic Bachata patterns. This series is designed to give students a solid foundation in Bachata that can be practiced on the social dance floor.
No partner or experience necessary.
4-WK SERIES: INTRO TO ZOUK
This class is perfect for beginners, offering a solid foundation in the sensual and flowing movements of Zouk. Learn the basic steps, connection techniques, and rhythm to feel confident on the dance floor. Join us for a fun, welcoming introduction to this dynamic and passionate dance style!
No partner or experience necessary.
4-WK SERIES: INTRO TO URBAN KIZ
This beginner-friendly class introduces you to the fundamentals of Urban Kiz, a smooth, rhythm-driven partner dance. Whether you’re new to dancing or looking to expand your skills, this class will provide you with the tools to get started. Join us and experience the fun and connection of Urban Kiz!
No partner or experience necessary.
Join us for a fun dance fitness class where you will be burning calories while enjoying your favorite songs. Prepare to sweat!
No partner or experience necessary.
This class is a workout class where you’ll be drilling Reggaeton footwork so you have two benefits: burning calories and getting really good at your much needed Reggaeton footwork.
No partner or experience necessary.
Kizomba is one of the most popular dance and music genres originating from Angola. Rooted in semba and influenced by Kilapanda and Angolan Merengue, Kizomba is known for its smooth, romantic rhythm and is usually sung in Portuguese. With deep cultural roots dating back to 1894, the word “Kizomba” was originally the Kimbundu name for a dance in Angola. This class is designed to help you grow, from building strong foundations to refining your connection, movement, and musicality.
BEG.AMR RHYTHM TRIAL TRACK 4-WK SERIES
This is a Beginner level class for students with no prior experience.
Week 1 – Rumba/ Week 2 – Cha Cha/ Week 3 – Swing/ Week 4 – Review and practice week
The goal is that you get a very basic intro in each style so you can decide on what style (s) you want to focus next in your group and private classes.
This is your stepping stone in your preparation for what’s next: Bronze, Silver and finally Gold syllabus.No partner or experience necessary.
BEG. AMR. SMOOTH TRIAL TRACK 4-WK SERIES
This is a Beginner level class for students with no prior experience.
Week 1 – American Smooth Waltz/ Week 2 – American Smooth Foxtrot/ Week 3 – American Smooth Tango/ Week 4 – Review and practice weekThe goal is that you get a very basic intro in each style so you can decide on what style (s) you want to focus next in your group and private classes.This is your stepping stone in your preparation for what’s next: Bronze, Silver and finally Gold syllabus.No partner or experience necessary.
FOUNDATION
Note: A tier consultation is required if you have not taken classes from the previous tier. Tip: for best results, take our 4-week series but also our practice classes.
In this welcoming and supportive environment, our experienced salsa instructor will guide you through the fundamental techniques and basic footwork that form the foundation of salsa dancing. You’ll learn to move with grace and confidence as you explore the energetic beats of salsa music. We believe that everyone can learn to dance, and we’re dedicated to providing an enjoyable and inclusive experience for all.
Continue your Bachata journey!
This class covers the basic step variations, simple turns, and introduces leading and following techniques, all while keeping it smooth and social.
Keep building a strong foundation in Bachata!
BEG. LVL 1 SALSA ON 1 PATTERNS & SHINES (Practice)
In this drop in ongoing class students are building on their beginner vocabulary, learning more footwork as well as partnering moves. The social dance combos are getting more advanced and the goal is to be able to dance through an entire song without repeating one move too many times. Technique should be cleaner as we drill beginner footwork and partnering.
BEG. LVL 1 BACHATA PATTERNS (Practice)
Practice makes perfect! In this class, week after week, you will solidify the moves that you have learned in our structured Bachata series and you will be able to practice them as a social dance pattern. This will improve your technique and make you a better dancer on the social dance floor.
This is a fun and energetic beginner-level class that combines basic salsa dance moves with a cardio workout. Designed for those new to salsa or looking to improve their rhythm and coordination. The upbeat music and dynamic routines will help you build confidence while getting a great workout.
RISING DANCER
Note: A tier consultation is required if you have not taken classes from the previous tier. Tip: for best results, take our 4-week series but also our practice classes. .
4-WK SERIES: BEG. LVL 2 SALSA ON 1
This series is the next step after students have completed their absolute beginner and Lvl 1 salsa and learned the very important salsa foundations and partnering. In this series, students are building on their beginner vocabulary, learning more footwork as well as partnering moves. The social dance combos are getting more advanced and the goal is to be able to dance through an entire song without repeating one move too many times. Technique should be cleaner as we drill beginner footwork and partnering.
No partner necessary.
4-WK SERIES: BEG. LVL 2 BACHATA
Get ready to level up your Bachata game!
This class adds more turn patterns, body movement, and connection drills to help you grow your confidence and flow on the dance floor.
No partner necessary.
In this drop in ongoing class students are building on their beginner vocabulary, learning more footwork as well as partnering moves. The social dance combos are getting more advanced and the goal is to be able to dance through an entire song without repeating one move too many times. Technique should be cleaner as we drill beginner footwork and partnering.No partner necessary.
ALL LVL LADIES SALSA ON 1 STYLING (Practice)
This class is for students who want to spice up their dance style. Styling will not only help you in individual shines but also with your partnering. When you know how to style, you will look beautiful on the dance floor.This class is recommended for students who have taken Beginner Salsa already.No partner necessary.
ALL LVL LADIES BACHATA STYLING (Practice)
This class is for students who want to level up their syling in Bachata.Styling will not only help you in individual shines but also with your partnering. When you know how to style, you will look beautiful on the dance floor.No partner necessary.
THRIVING DANCER
Note: A tier consultation is required if you have not taken classes from the previous tier. Tip: for best results, take our 4-week series but also our practice classes.
4-WK SERIES: INTERM. LVL 1 SALSA ON 1
At this intermediate series, students will learn and practice to faster speed songs, adding more energy and style to their dancing. They should be comfortable dancing more complicated footwork and partnering to faster music. Students will be learning to be more creative in their social dancing, not having to think too much about the next move or anticipating. Feeling the music and dancing to the rhythm will become more and more comfortable as students advance into this level.
No partner necessary.
This series is designed for students who have already taken Beginner Level Bachata classes and are very comfortable with Beginner Bachata footwork and partnering. In this series students will continue exploring more advanced technique and moves as well as styling, which will help grow their Bachata vocabulary and continue contributing to their social dance skills.
No partner necessary.
4-WK. SERIES: SALSA ON 1 ACROBATICS 1
Unleash your inner dancer and elevate your salsa skills with our dynamic and exciting 4-week “Introduction to Salsa Acrobatics” course! This course will provide you with the fundamentals of salsa acrobatics while enhancing your overall dance technique, coordination, and creativity.
No partner necessary.
4-WK BACHATA DOMINICANA FOUNDATIONS
Welcome to the 4-week beginner’s Bachata Dominicana class! In this course, you’ll learn the basic steps, techniques, and musicality of Bachata to get you started on your dancing journey.
No partner necessary.
INT. LVL 1 SALSA ON1 SOCIAL DANCING TECHNIQUE (Practice)
This Intermediate Level 1 Social Dancing Technique class is designed to help you become a confident and skilled social dancer, ready to hit the dance floor with flair and finesse. So, get ready to elevate your dancing to the next level, connect with fellow dancers, and have a blast as we dance through this exciting journey together! Please ask your instructor if you are ready for this level before signing up
No partner necessary.
INTERM. LVL BACHATA PARTNERING & STYLING (Practice)
In thi practice class students should be very confident about their Bachata skills to develop precision and fluidity when it comes to partner work.
A strong emphasis on styling technique is also covered.
No partner necessary.
ALL LVL BACHATA DOMINICANA FOOTWORK & PARTNERING
In this ongoing class, students will explore the fundamental footwork patterns unique to Bachata Dominicana, characterized by its syncopated steps, intricate footwork variations, and smooth transitions. Through step-by-step instruction and guided practice, participants will develop a strong foundation in executing footwork sequences with precision.
No partner necessary.
PRE-STAR DANCER
Note: A tier consultation is required if you have not taken classes from the previous tier. Tip: for best results, take our 4-week series but also our practice classes.
4-WK SERIES: INTERM LVL 2 SALSA ON 1
This level is a higher level Salsa class where you absolutely need to be comfortable as a lead and/or follow so you can continue learning more complicated moves and get yourself ready to be an even more amazing social dancer and maybe even a performer. Please, ask your instructor if you are ready for this level before signing up.
No partner necessary.
4-WK SERIES: SENSUAL BACHATA FOUNDATIONS
Designed for students who have already taken our Beginner Level and Intermediate Level Bachata series and want to start Sensual Bachata. It focuses on expressing the connection and chemistry between partners through body movement, musicality, and emotions.
No partner necessary.
INTERM. LVL 2 SALSA ON 1 SPINS AND PATTERNS (Practice)
In this class, we will focus on mastering spins, refining your partnering skills, and learning exciting new patterns to elevate your salsa dancing to the next level.No partner necessary.
INTERM. LVL 2 SALSA ON 1 SOCIAL DANCING TECHNIQUE (Practice)
This Intermediate Level 2 Social Dancing Technique class is designed to help you become a confident and skilled social dancer, ready to hit the dance floor with flair and finesse. So, get ready to elevate your dancing to the next level, connect with fellow dancers, and have a blast as we dance through this exciting journey together! Please ask your instructor if you are ready for this level before signing up.
No partner necessary.
This class is designed for dancers with prior experience in Bachata, this class delves deeper into the dynamic footwork, and partnering techniques.
In this class, students will refine their footwork with advanced patterns, focusing on fluidity, precision, and mastering lead and follow dynamics, connection, and musicality.
No partner necessary.
STAR DANCER
Note: A tier consultation is required if you have not taken classes from the previous tier. Tip: for best results, take our 4-week series but also our practice classes.
In advanced Salsa on 1 partnering classes, dancers refine their technique, enhance their connection, and explore more intricate and challenging patterns and combinations.
No partner necessary.
ADV. SALSA ON 1 FOOTWORK, BODY MOVEMENT & SPINS (Practice)
This advanced-level practice class is designed for dancers who want to refine their On1 Salsa technique in a solo format. Each session drills complex footwork patterns, sharp spins, and fluid body movement with an emphasis on musicality, control, and style. Expect fast-paced combos, technique breakdowns, and repetition to build confidence and precision on the dance floor.
Perfect for experienced dancers looking to elevate their solo game.
No partner necessary.
4-WK SERIES: INTERM. SENSUAL BACHATA
This series will explore everything one needs to know to improve their Sensual Bachata dancing. The series will focus on what’s popularly known as “sensual” Bachata – exploring how to interpret the music in a unique and sensual way. By completion of the six classes, participants will gain an in-depth understanding of how to interpret or “feel” the music, and grow into their own sensual style and expression within the dance.
No partner necessary.
Dance is a journey of self-growth. We’ve seen our students grow from absolute beginners to confident social dancers and even performers. It takes practice and consistency but the results are remarkable and the friendships built on the dance floor last for a lifetime.
The best way to practice your skills while having fun and socializing with new and old friends.
Social dance parties

The most productive way to build a solid foundation and advance is through working one-on-one with one of our amazing instructors.
Salsa, Bachata & more
Ballroom dance private lessons

Salsa with Silvia is THE PLACE TO BE. Whether you’re looking to improve your dancing, rent their beautiful studio for your private event, or bring your kids for an experience. You will leave feeling satisfied and happy that you took the step to come in. There is a reason this studio is the #1 Latin Dance studio in the DMV. You can feel the love that was put into the studio from starting out in just a basement to two studios! The staff is extremely friendly and helpful. The teachers are patient, understanding, and energetic.
My partner and I came here for our first private salsa lesson. I was a little anxious as I have no dance experience/rhythm and also wasn’t sure how they’d handle two men learning two dance together. Our instructor, David, was absolutely awesome. He didn’t miss a beat (..) and had such an easy way of interacting with us. He made even a nervous nelly such as myself feel calm and confident. The studio was also very nice and modern. We could not have had a better experience with Silvia’s, and will be back for another lesson from David soon!
Salsa with Silvia is more than a dance studio. Lots of magic happens there. You’ve got all the basics- amazing instructors, good variety of classes in style and level, a professional business, and a safe and reliable environment. In addition, you learn how dancing is about much more than just moving your body. By joining the studio you enter a community, so you meet amazing people and make new friends. The owner Silvia is always engaged and she is always willing to help.
The teachers are experienced and patient, and there are different levels that you can choose from. You can either stay at your own level, or try others at the same time, its very flexible.
They also teach Bachata and not Just Salsa, so you can enjoy both as I did.
The stuff is really nice, and they also have a Social party once a month so you can practice your moves. Best studio I tried!
I took my first salsa lesson with Mario and it was excellent. It was obvious that he is a professional and very good at what he does. I’m an adult male and i was a bit scared because have never been inside a dance studio. He was able to teach me some dance steps and I look forward to having additional classes. The facility is new with a very nice design and professional operation.
I have now taken lessons at Salsa with Silvia for over 3 months and several classes. I have no hesitation in saying that Salsa with Silvia is one of the best Salsa schools in the Wash DC/MD area. The instructors at the studio are just amazing. I have taken classes with three of them, Kelly, Jennifer and Joffre, and I enjoy each of their classes.
