The Federation of Italian American Organizations of Brooklyn (FIAO) this summer will sponsor free ballroom dance instruction for youngsters and seniors in its popular inter-generational dance classes starting July 8 at FIAO’S Beacon Program at Seth Low IS 96, 99 Avenue P between West 12th and West 13th streets.
The two hour Tuesday class, for young students and beginners of all ages, starts at 3 p.m. and Master Dance Instructor Carmine Santa Maria, who has been teaching ballroom dancing for more than 52 years is assisted by regular students of his.
Santa Maria uses his regular students to demonstrate initial patterns and techniques, teaching students to dance with the music: basic Meringue, foxtrot and tango are introduced, and then cha-cha and swing are added. At times, Santa Maria will accommodate advanced students with Peabody, rumba, mambo and samba.
Santa Maria teaches group lessons only, telling students “you learn to dance by teaching each other and dancing with each other,” adding, “but, I will always be watching you and correcting you.”
Adult walk in registration starts July 7 and summer dance classes end August 19. Pre- registration is advisable and necessary for youngsters.
For registration and more information, call Camillio or Joe Pizzi at 718-232-2266.
