Bruce Profile Page
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| Summer Sando began her dance journey in 2001 when she entered her
first salsa class in Tucson Arizona. While watching her first instructor, Bruce Montoya conduct beginner classes with military precision, Summers interest in Latin Dance, music and the artistic expression was ignited. Over the years, Summer moved up through the ranks to become the Chief Instructor of the Salsa Soulseros team where her creative interpretation of the music, ability to follow any lead, and skill in transfering this knowledge to others, has made her an empathetic Master Instructor. While highlighting Salsa instruction with her team, Summers true love has become Bachata. In 2006, Summer had the priviledge of meeting and training with Jorge Elizondo during his worldwide Bachata tour. Ever since then, Summer has collaborated with and assisted Jorge with his misson of spreading the word about this passionate and sensual Latin Dance. Summer's years of experience as a massage therapist, Crossfit practicioner and marathon runner has brought to her instruction, a high degree of focus on body awareness and personal empowerment. Summers patience, professional instruction and her versitle teaching methods has helped her connect with her dedicated students to a point where she challenges them mentally yet provides them with an environment where they can feel comfortable, confident and well informed. Helping students express themselves on the dance floor and more importantly in their lives...is her primary joy. And this is exactly why she and her husband developed the infamous "Lap Dance Classes for Bachateras"! Unlike any other experience at the Bachata Festivals, this class has been the highlight for many that attend. Delivered in a classy and respectful manner this 90 minute session will make any open minded dancer connect at a higher level of sensuality more than they could have ever imagined. ------------------ Originally from New York, Bruce Montoya took his first steps in Salsa, wearing combat boots during the 1991 Gulf War. Learning from a fellow U.S. Marine during operational breaks, Bruce immediately connected to the rhythms that had evaded him during his rough upbringing in N.Y. After his tour of duty, Bruce attended the University of Arizona where his mission became to obtain a degree, learn more salsa moves and of course, meet the ladies! In 1995 Bruce started various Latin dance groups on campus, all with the goal of helping University students connect through Salsa. But on September 11th, 2001 that all changed. Returning to active duty with the Marines, Bruce's focus shifted from conducting beginner salsa classes for civilians to conducting personal protection sessions for U.S. Marines. Now as a retired Marine Gunnery Sergeant, Bruce has returned to civilian life to primarily conduct personal protection courses throughout Tucson and when requested, providing self defense workshops to the dancers of the various Bachata Festivals held throughout the United States. Many ask, "Why are they conducting self defense classes at a BACHATA festival?" And the answer logically is: because criminals in the local area where the festivals are being held, are on the prowl for distracted tourists that are easy targets! Enjoy the dance on the floor yet be aware that the walk back to your seat can drastically be different from the walk back to your car or restaurant. Using reality-based personal protection training methods, Bruce strives to instill a strong sense of awareness and prepardeness within all of the dedicated students taking his courses throughout the U.S. |
Additional Info
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