FAQs
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Let me introduce myself, my name is Alexander I am a professional instructor and dancer with over 25 years of work and performance experience. I started dancing as an amateur when I was a kid in high school. I attended the State University of Culture and Arts and graduated as a Choreographer and Ballroom Dance Instructor in 2009. I have also performed for many years with famous entertainment companies around the world such as: Agosta Artist Co, Star Entertainment Agency, Royal Caribbean Company, Norwegian Cruise Line and others. Over the past 8 years in the United States, I have been a multiple Top Teacher 1st place in the Tri-State area, as well as the Manager for 5 years in the dance studio that was rank 1st place as a Top Studio in multiple Championships in the United States. My students placed in Top 3 in the some of the most prestigious competitions in USA. I continue my professional career with my partner, Anna, on the competitive dance floor in this country. I have been honored to work with some of the best world champions such as: Hazel Newberry, Andrei Gavriline, Igor and Polina Pilipenchuk, Max and Val Chmerkovskij, Tony Dovaloni, Graham Oswick, Arunas Bezokas, Vibeke Tofft, Allan Tornsberg, Natallia Skorikova and others. My work is my passion; I love what I do. I feel deeply that each lesson is productive for my students. I always try to find a unique approach to learning for everyone, regardless, of their level of training. I help my students achieve their goals and more. It is so amazing to see the transformation my student make each week. I am sure that absolutely every person can learn to dance, and this is the best way of self-discovery. In my practice, my students all have personal goal ranging from learning a wedding dance, performing a showcase, doing classes for weight reduction and fitness, learning social dances to feel comfortable on the dance floor to any music, practicing and performing for ProAm competitions on some of the best dance floors in the America etc. I believe all ages and abilities can dance; I am a certified instructor to teach individual in wheelchairs. I’m confident and happy to help everyone beat the uncertainty and fear on the dance floor. I hope you will take a moment and learn more what we offer at Make a Step. Hello! My name is Anna. From the very first steps in my life, I could not stand calm when I heard music. So even before I started elementary school, my mother took me to dance studio and gymnastics. I devoted my whole life to dancing. I competed and continue to compete in the best dance venues, where I have won prizes and final places such as: New York Dance Festival, Eastern United States Dance Sport Championship, Golden Star Championship, American Open Dance Championship, and others. Dance for me is more than just moving to music. Dance is the philosophy of my life that gives me strength, inspiration, meaning and energy. I want to share my passion with my students. The same time I cannot stop learning from the best of the best to improve. My coaches are dance legends like: Diana McDonald, Eugene Katsevman, Arunas Bezokas, Jonathan Wilkins, Hazel Newberry, Marat Gimaev, Vibeke Toft, Allan Thornsberg, Andrei Gavriline, Elena Krychkova, Igor and Polina Pilipenchuk, Amanda and Tony Dockman, Natalia Skorikova, and many others. In my professional career, I had the opportunity to perform all over the world. I work with internationally companies with world names such as: The Venetian Hotel, Star Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Agosta Artist Co, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania, Silver Seas, and several others. Each of my lessons is a learning experience where my student acquires new knowledge and learns new skills, which means we Make a Step Forward. In my dance carrier, there are long and successful eight years of teaching and more than five years successful studio management. For more than five years, my studio was one of the best in the Tri-State area where it won 1st place many times. I performed with my students for more than eight years in ProAm competitions at some of America's best dance floors. Also, during this time, we performed in many Showcases. It is a magical experience that a dancer can take a step into a favorite time or place and be whoever they wish to be for a short time. Showcases are a great way for a dancer to show his/her artistic talent. The dance floor is a place where you can forget your daily routines and enjoy yourself with music and other happy dancers. I love to dance. I am so fortunate to been given this gift of passion for my career. I still have the same passion and would enjoy working with you. It is your time. Come Make a Step to dance. See you on the magic floor! WEDDING DANCE Make Your First Dance Unforgettable! Attention all soon-to-be-weds! Are you looking to dazzle your guests and create cherished memories on your big day? Look no further! Our expert dance instructors are here to transform your wedding dance dreams into reality. With tailored lessons designed just for you, we'll guide you through every step of your special dance, whether you envision a romantic waltz, a sultry salsa, or a lively swing. We'll work with your chosen song and style to choreograph a captivating routine that reflects your unique love story. No prior dance experience? No problem! Our patient instructors specialize in teaching beginners, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable on the dance floor. We'll break down each move, provide personalized feedback, and help you master the art of dancing as a couple. Not only will your first dance be a show-stopping moment, but it will also be a joyful celebration of your journey together. So why wait? Let us elevate your wedding day with a mesmerizing dance that you and your guests will remember forever. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation and take the first step towards an unforgettable wedding dance experience!
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
My passion for dance started in childhood and eventually became my profession. I earned my degree in Choreography and Ballroom Dance Instruction in 2009 and have spent more than 25 years teaching, performing, and competing. Together with my wife Anna, we founded Make a Step Dance Studio to help people of all ages and experience levels discover the joy of dancing in a friendly, welcoming environment.
- Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
One of our favorite recent projects was helping a couple prepare their first dance for their wedding. Neither of them had any dance experience, but after just six private lessons over four weeks, they performed a beautiful and confident dance in front of their family and friends. Seeing their smiles and hearing how much they enjoyed the experience is exactly why we love what we do.