Nico and Laura (on the picture) are our Oxford University Beginners Salsa teachers 2019/2020. Nico and Laura are also regularly at our weekly socials every Wednesday at the Retreat. Would you like to know a bit more about our teachers? We asked Nico a few questions to get to know him better. Here are his answers:
How long have you been dancing?
I have been dancing intensively for 4-5 years now.
Why did you decide to start dancing?
I randomly took a ballroom class as a joke with some friends; danced a few waltz and tango. My friends had a good laugh and never came back, I stayed and switch to Salsa.
What do you like the most about dancing?
It’s a universal human language; through dancing, for a few minutes, you can connect with a total stranger from across the world. And that’s pretty cool.
Why did you decide to start teaching?
Dancing opened an amazing new chapter in my life; I want to share this passion, help a few other people feel the same about it if possible. The more dancing geeks, the better!
What is your favourite song?
Man, it’s changing every week, impossible to decide. Lately it would be things like The Latinaires – Creation, Louie Ramirez & Ray De La Paz – Mentirosa, Ray Baretto – Soul Drummer. El Timba and La Maxima are always good fun. Oooh and Yuri Buenaventura – Les vieux amants (Brel en Salsa!) and Omi y Leoni Toooorr… wait, what? Hell yeah! I put a bachata song in here!
Anyway, there is no favourite song really.
What’s the funniest thing that has ever happened to you that’s related to dancing?
I have danced Tektonik in High School… I still dance it sometimes…
What is the most memorable place you have danced at?
Warsaw for the best technical level, South Park or around a BBQ in Oxford summer nights for the best times!
What are your other hobbies apart from dancing?
Well, I enjoy the usual meeting up with friends around a nice pint of beer, dinner or a boardgames.