Business Details
18 Years
experience
Your Premier Destination for Ballroom Latin & Swing Dance
Founded in 2008, Ballroom Dance Chicago was established to help individuals and couples discover the natural joy of partner dancing. Our mission focuses on creating a welcoming environment where anyone can build confidence and connection through ballroom, Latin, and swing dance. We emphasize personalized instruction tailored to each learner's pace and goals, prioritizing meaningful human interaction over rigid competition. With two Chicago locations and a team of experienced instructors, we offer flexible class formats including couples-only group sessions, private lessons, and immersive dance events.Our approach combines technical skill development with social engagement, fostering both personal growth and community building. The studio's philosophy centers on the belief that dance is a universal language capable of strengthening relationships and enhancing well-being. We maintain transparent communication, ethical business practices, and a commitment to continuous improvement in both our teaching methods and student experiences.
Services
Ballroom Dance Classes
Latin Dance Lessons
Swing Dance Instruction
Wedding Dance Lessons
Group Dance Classes
Private Dance Lessons
Ballroom Dance Events
Dance Workshops
Dance Parties
Dance Tutorials
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We offer personalized dance instruction tailored to individual learning styles
- Our small group classes ensure focused attention for each couple
- Experienced instructors specialize in wedding dance preparation
- We provide a non-competitive environment emphasizing connection over perfection
- Two convenient Chicago locations with flexible scheduling options
What people say
Excellent instruction
Stunning space
Favorite weekly date night
Professional yet approachable
Inclusive environment
Services
Ballroom Dance Classes
Our ballroom dance classes teach fundamental techniques in waltz, foxtrot, and tango. Students learn proper posture, timing, and partner connection in a supportive environment. Classes cater to all skill levels from complete beginners to experienced dancers seeking refinement. The curriculum emphasizes practical application for social dancing rather than competition preparation.
Wedding Dance Lessons
Specialized instruction for couples preparing their wedding dance. Sessions focus on choreography tailored to your song choice and comfort level. We help couples build confidence through gradual skill development while maintaining the personal significance of their first dance. Lessons accommodate various timelines from last-minute preparations to long-term planning.
Group Dance Classes
Small-group format classes designed specifically for couples. Participants learn together without rotating partners, maintaining a comfortable learning environment. Instructors provide individualized attention while covering essential dance techniques. Classes follow a rolling start schedule for flexible enrollment options.
Private Dance Lessons
Customized instruction tailored to specific goals and learning preferences. Private sessions allow focused attention on particular dance styles, technical improvement, or event preparation. Lessons accommodate individual schedules and progress at the student's preferred pace with detailed instructor feedback.
Ballroom Dance Events
Regularly scheduled social dance events including themed balls and BYOB dance parties. Events provide practical application opportunities for learned skills in a welcoming atmosphere. Participants enjoy live and DJ music across multiple dance styles while practicing social dancing techniques in real-world settings.
People
Matthew Sove
Founder
Matthew established Ballroom Dance Chicago in 2008 with a vision to make dance accessible to all. He believes partner dancing builds confidence and connection beyond the dance floor. His teaching philosophy emphasizes personal growth through movement and human connection. Matthew continues to shape the studio's inclusive approach to dance education.
Questions
Do I need a partner for dance classes?
Group classes for couples require a partner. Our 'Group Classes for Everyone' allow single dancers to rotate partners. Private lessons can be taken individually or with a partner.
What should I wear to dance classes?
Wear comfortable clothing that allows movement. Choose shoes with smooth soles that stay securely on your feet. Avoid sneakers or sandals that might hinder dancing.
Are there age restrictions for classes?
Our regular classes cater to adults. We occasionally offer special programs for younger dancers. Contact us for specific youth class availability and age requirements.
Can I try a class before committing?
Yes, we offer drop-in classes for $350 for 10 sessions. This allows you to experience our teaching style and studio environment before enrolling in a full course.
How do I prepare for a ballroom event?
We recommend taking lessons to learn basic steps before attending events. Our Waltz Academy specializes in preparing guests for formal balls with focused instruction on traditional ballroom dances.
What makes your studio different from others?
We focus on personalized instruction in small groups with experienced teachers. Our non-competitive approach emphasizes connection and enjoyment over perfection, creating a welcoming environment for all skill levels.
Reviews (6)
Heidi P.
Dec 22, 2021
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We worked with Matthew to choreograph and learn our wedding first dance. It was amazing! Matthew was so friendly and professional - and was able to help us master our first dance. Everyone at our wedding raved about how fun our dance was! Matthew taught us so much, we highly recommend working with him. We also previously took Matthew's salsa class which was also amazing. We highly recommend!
Allie Merg
Nov 04, 2021
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Our experience taking wedding dance lessons with Matthew at Ballroom Dance Chicago was by far the best part of the entire wedding planning experience! We couldn't have picked a more professional studio. Matthew was able to understand us as a couple and our vision for our wedding night, and his incredible choreography was so much fun to learn and totally impressed our friends and family at our wedding. Also his welcoming and friendly vibe made us look forward to every single lesson.
Paul Barham
Nov 03, 2021
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We cannot say enough positive about Ballroom Dance Chicago and their approach to preparing us to crush dancing at our wedding! I am not what you would call a good dancer (or even a dancer for that matter)... however Matthew and the team were able to start us with the basics and we wowed everyone at our wedding! We first met with the team to select a song that first our personality and then they created a detailed routine. As we progressed in our abilities, we were taught more complicated elements- but never felt overwhelmed. If I can do it, YOU can do it and don't forget to practice! Thanks again
Samantha L.
Nov 02, 2021
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I would recommend Ballroom Dance Chicago to everyone. My now husband surprised me with classes for our anniversary in order to have a choreographed piece for our wedding. We met with Matthew for a consultation and gave him a peculiar song choice that meant a lot to us but was a bit out of the ordinary and he totally ran with it. We loved our dance, but more than that, we loved hanging out with Matthew.
Our weekly classes became our date night and I can't tell you how hard we laughed throughout the process and how much we loved talking and getting to know Matthew. To note, we are totally beginners
Our weekly classes became our date night and I can't tell you how hard we laughed throughout the process and how much we loved talking and getting to know Matthew. To note, we are totally beginners
Drew Stoimenoff
Oct 30, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality
Angela was amazing! She created choreography that matched our first dance song beautifully and was fun to perform. Not only did we look like pros on our wedding day, each lesson was a mini date night we looked forward to each week. She helped us create a memory that we will ever forget!
Angela was amazing! She created choreography that matched our first dance song beautifully and was fun to perform. Not only did we look like pros on our wedding day, each lesson was a mini date night we looked forward to each week. She helped us create a memory that we will ever forget!
Joan O.
Oct 30, 2021
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My husband and I took 8 lessons with Angela for our September 2021 wedding and it was by far the best part of wedding planning. Angela became a fast friend, and we looked forward to our lessons every week. The dance was special, but not over-the-top (just what we wanted) and Angela taught us at our own pace. We couldn't recommend working with Ballroom Dance Chicago & Angela enough!
