Steve is one of our new Oxford University Salsa Society teachers for the academic year 2018-19, he will be teaching the Intermediate class together with Gwyneth. Steve is also a enthusiastic musician and a regular at our weekly socials every Wednesday at Nomad. We asked him a few questions to get to know him better. Here are his answers:
How long have you been dancing?
Dancing for almost 20 years
Why did you decide to start dancing?
I guess I started dancing because I’m 1/4 portuguese, and the culture seemed to resonate with me. I love the people you get in the dance community, coning from such diverse backgrounds and nationalities – it’s truly a global community.
What do you like the most about dancing?
Everything – the music, the people, the energy, the community is like an extended family.
Why did you decide to start teaching?
It was a natural progression for me. I very much enjoy teaching, and not just salsa, I taught motorcycle training in the past, and hope to teach music in the future.
How long have you been teaching?
Teaching for close to 15 years now (time flies when you’re having fun!)
What do you like most about teaching?
Honestly, I used to struggle with my confidence, and stepping into teaching was with a bit of trepidation, but it has been incredibly rewarding to be able to help other people progress and gain confidence.
What is your favourite song?
My favourite song? It changes all the time, it all depends on what mood I’m in!
What’s the funniest thing that has ever happened to you that’s related to dancing?
Funniest thing? I recall a lady stepping back, her heel perfectly positioned to slide into my shoe besides my foot without injury, but pinning my foot to the floor! Or the time I was dancing with one of two twins, her sister dancing with another guy besides me, and a perfectly timed maneouvre left us each dancing with the other sister!
What is the most memorable place you have danced at?
Most memorable place? M1 gateway services on the way home at 6am after a night at Scala Latina – stopped for breakfast, then we opened the car doors, turned up the music and carried on! In the middle of the carpark no less!
What are your other hobbies apart from dancing?
I’m a musician, I think dancing and playing a musical instrument are very closely related – everyone should learn to dance, and everyone should learn to play music, it’s so rewarding.