Suenos de Salsa, Seattle

Though he grew up entranced by the Latin music of his father's flamenco group, Michael Cahn didn't discover his love for salsa dancing until he studied Spanish in Cuzco, Peru. That trip instilled in Michael a desire to learn as much as he could about the dance, which prompted him to train in Cuba, Ecuador, Mexico, and America. With several awards under his belt—he's consistently placed in the top five at such salsa competitions as the Gemini Salsa Championship and the Jack & Jill competition—he danced off the stages of several prestigious salsa congresses and into his own studio.

At Sueños de Salsa, he teaches his students to focus on their connection with the music and their partner as they develop a deep understanding of rhythm, timing, and body mechanics. His comprehensive instruction includes basic footwork, multiple spin drills, and advanced dance combinations, helping students of all skill levels feel the rhythm more effectively than if they slept under sheet music. He also teaches bachata, cha cha, and footwork classes to groups of students and hosts occaional Lifts & Tricks workshops.