Salsa Classes at Abbey Bar

I have been learning cross body salsa in London for over 2 years, principally with the LDA but also with other schools e.g. at SOS and Bar Salsa. I have attended congresses nationally and internationally
and consider myself a reasonably keen and well informed intermediate student
A few months ago a colleague at work suggested I tried classes at the
Abbey Bar, London with Salsa-Tropical and, having done so, I am now a convert and
try to go as many Mondays as I can.

My observations are that the classes are well run and that the teachers are motivated to help their
students learn not only good technique, but the balance of a well structured dance.

This is done by focusing classes mainly on partner work rather
than shines and by trying longer challenging routines that test the
man and woman equally e.g. male spins as well as female, different sorts
of copa's,alternative endings and options from key positions etc.

Maria Palmieri's reputation as a teacher goes before her and it is well
deserved. She takes her school seriously and expects students to do
likewise, but she also wants them to enjoy the activity of dancing ie. not merely the mechanics.

The Abbey is a very classy venue, spacious, atmospheric lighting, 2 nice bars but with no interruptions to the classes from the general public. There is 1-2 hours of club time after the classes when students can practice and socialise. Students aren't just City types and there seems an equal balance between men and women. I had recognised a number of the stronger male dancers at the club from events like Salsa Fusion and was reassured that they had learnt a lot of their skills at Salsa-Tropical. If you work near the City and want to improve your salsa with like minded people you will definitely enjoy it.

Testimonial from Simon

The quality of the teaching from Maria Palmieri is excellent and very thorough.

The atmosphere is very friendly, amongst the most friendly that you will find in the London salsa scene.

Testimonial from Imtiaz