If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
Step into the joy of dancing with a teacher who will help you truly connect—with both yourself and your dance partner. I specialize in creating a deeply felt experience of joy and confidence as you glide across the dance floor, ensuring you leave every lesson feeling inspired, empowered, and comfortable with what you've learned.
With over 30 years of passion for partner dancing, 15 years of teaching, and 15 years of performance experience, I am dedicated to making every lesson a celebration of movement, connection, and growth. Whether you're a beginner or experienced, I offer 1-on-1, couples, and group lessons in both leading and following—no partner required! I'm also available for wedding dance choreographies, father/daughter, and mother/son dances to make your special moments even more memorable.
Various packages are available, and studio floor fees apply.
¡Clases también disponibles en Español!
Overview
Hired 30 times
Serves Torrance, CA
Background checked
1 employee
17 years in business
Business hours
Sun10:00 am - 9:00 pmMon10:00 am - 9:00 pm
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, Venmo, and Zelle.
Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, work quality, and value.
Excellent 4.9
19 reviews
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Read reviews that mention:
Eduardo M.
Sep 23, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
My fiancée and I absolutely loved our lesson with Ari! She was very straightforward and easy to understand, and the examples she gave us made everything so much clearer. The techniques she taught us were amazing and gave us a much better sense of how to connect our dance to the song.
She helped us understand not only the movements, but also the feelings and expressions behind them, which made the lesson even more meaningful and enjoyable. She was very professional, patient, and made us feel comfortable throughout the entire lesson.
We really enjoyed our time with Ari and would definitely recommend her to anyone looking to improve their dancing and feel more confident!
Details: Two (ex. me and my partner) • First dance • What my teacher recommends • Slow Dance • No, I do not have choreography in mind • No experience • My home, venue, etc. • At the pro’s location
Wedding Dance Lessons
Meloani P.
Sep 12, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
I cannot recommend Ari enough! She is incredibly patient, kind, and non-judgmental, and really takes the time to understand what you need and meet you where you are. She genuinely listens, and if there’s something you want to work on or are having trouble with, she’ll stop and make sure she’s addressing it rather than just moving through the lesson.
I had never taken a dance class before outside of one group salsa class, which honestly left me a little deterred. Having one-on-one instruction with someone as encouraging and patient as Ari has been a completely different experience. She makes you feel comfortable while still helping you improve and build confidence.
She really works with you at your level and makes the lessons feel completely tailored to you. Whether you’re brand new or already have experience, I truly wouldn’t recommend anyone else for salsa!
Details: 36-45 • One person (one-on-one with instructor) • Salsa • No experience • Developing a hobby • I'm flexible • Once a week • At the pro’s location
Private Dance Lessons
Heiden S.
Jun 29, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
I was so nervous before my first lesson, but she immediately made me feel comfortable. She’s kind, patient, supportive, and creates a safe space where I never feel judged for making mistakes. Every lesson is tailored to my goals, and I’ve learned so much in just a short time. I genuinely look forward to every lesson and highly recommend her!
Details: 46-65 • One person (one-on-one with instructor) • Salsa • Beginner • Developing a hobby • I'm flexible • As recommended by professional • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Private Dance Lessons
Julia V.
Sep 24, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
My fiancé and I took a few dancelessons with Ari, and she was fabulous! We really enjoyed our time with her, and she was so supportive and helpful throughout. We didn’t have much dancing experience coming in, but she made us feel comfortable and at ease. By the end, we felt excited and confident about our first dance! We’re looking forward to more lessons with Ari in the future!
Details: Two (ex. me and my partner) • First dance • Slow Dance • Swing Dance • What my teacher recommends • No, I do not have choreography in mind • Beginner • At the pro’s location
Wedding Dance Lessons
Chris B.
Jul 25, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
She has a unique ability to teach dance by feel and effectively teach in a way that gets immediate results. It is a relatable teaching method. I highly recommend this instructor.
Details: 36-45 • One person (one-on-one with instructor) • Salsa • Beginner • Preparing for an event / performance • 60 minutes • Once a week • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc.
Private Dance Lessons
Credentials
Background Check
Ari Protti
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
One private lesson is $100 /hour.
Packages for Private Lessons:
5 lessons for $475
10 lessons for $900
20 lessons for $1700
The studio rental fee is not included in rates
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
When you first reach out we will discuss your goals and I will tailor a program to fit your needs. We will schedule a date and time to meet for your first dance lesson and start working immediately on your dance program. Feel free to ask questions at any time and bring up any concerns and adjustments.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have received training in the following dance companies: Edwin Rivera Project, Los Anormales, Renata Peçanha, Mambo Inc, Bonito y Sabroso. I also taught and received formal dance teacher training at IM Dance Happy Studios in Salsa and Bachata. I have taken countless classes in a variety of partner dances like Argentine Tango, West Coast Swing, Zouk, Hustle, and Country Two Step.
