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21 Years
experience
Premier Dance Instruction in Rochester NY
Rochester Dance Lessons has been transforming students into confident dancers for over a decade. Founded in 2005, our studio began with a single client and has grown into a premier dance destination in Rochester's Neighborhood of the Arts. Our 2,200-square-foot ballroom features floating hardwood floors and wall-to-wall mirrors, creating an ideal environment for learning. With three senior instructors offering decades of combined experience in ballroom, Latin, and social dance styles, we specialize in making dance accessible to everyone. Our unique approach focuses on developing social dancers who can confidently navigate any setting, from weddings to nightclubs, without the need for competition attire.

We offer personalized private lessons, group classes, and specialized wedding dance programs tailored to individual goals. Our instructors have competed nationally and bring professional expertise to every lesson. The studio hosts regular practice sessions and social dance events to reinforce learning. We prioritize creating a welcoming atmosphere where students of all ages and skill levels can thrive. With flexible scheduling and a commitment to making dance fun, we've helped hundreds of couples and individuals achieve their dance goals since opening.
Services
Private Dance Lessons Group Dance Classes Wedding Dance Instruction Practice Sessions Teacher Rental Services Social Dance Parties
Details
  • Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
  • We specialize in creating confident social dancers, not competition performers
  • Three senior instructors with 40+ combined years of professional dance experience
  • Personalized lesson plans tailored to individual learning styles and goals
  • Flexible scheduling with private and group lesson options available
  • Proven success teaching hundreds of wedding couples their first dance
What people say
Fun lessons Patient teachers Quick progress Great atmosphere Wedding success
Services
Private Dance Lessons
Personalized dance instruction tailored to individual goals and learning styles. Our 45-minute private sessions allow focused attention on specific dances or techniques. Students work directly with experienced instructors to develop proper form, timing, and confidence on the dance floor. This format suits those preparing for special events or seeking rapid skill development.
Group Dance Classes
Weekly group lessons that build leading and following skills through varied dance partners. Classes focus on one dance style for six weeks, rotating between ballroom and Latin genres. These sessions develop social dancing comfort while introducing students to multiple styles in a supportive community environment.
Wedding Dance Instruction
Specialized programs for couples preparing their wedding first dance. Includes music selection assistance, choreography tailored to skill level, and unlimited practice sessions. Our instructors help couples create memorable performances that match their chosen song while maintaining natural, comfortable movements.
Practice Sessions
Guided practice opportunities to reinforce lesson material in a social setting. Instructors provide feedback while students practice with various partners. These sessions help develop adaptability and confidence when dancing with different partners at different skill levels.
Teacher Rental Services
Professional dance partners available for special events or private parties. Instructors teach group lessons at private venues or accompany clients to social events. This service allows students to practice social dancing in real-world settings with expert guidance.
People
Jay Ruest
Senior Instructor/Owner
Owner and lead instructor with 20+ years teaching experience. Former competition dancer turned social dance specialist. Developed unique methodology focusing on practical social dancing skills over competition techniques.
Meg Pheterson
Senior Instructor
Rochester native with 9 years teaching experience. Former Arthur Murray instructor. Combines classical ballet training with ballroom expertise to teach students of all ages and skill levels in personalized lessons.
Hope Letson
Senior Instructor
Lifelong dancer with expertise in Latin and ballroom styles. Former competition instructor and performer. Focuses on making lessons fun while developing students' confidence and technical skills in social dance settings.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We teach all major ballroom and Latin styles including Tango, Foxtrot, Waltz, Salsa, Swing, and Samba, plus social dance variations for casual settings.
Do I need a dance partner?
No partner required. We provide instructors for private lessons, and group classes rotate partners to develop social dancing skills with different people.
How long does it take to learn to dance?
Most students achieve basic proficiency in 5-10 lessons. Wedding couples typically need 5-8 sessions to prepare their first dance, with ongoing practice.
What should I wear to lessons?
Comfortable clothing that allows movement. For footwear, choose shoes with smooth soles that stay securely on your feet during turns and spins.
Can you help with wedding dance preparation?
Yes! Our wedding program includes music selection, choreography, and unlimited practice sessions. Most couples complete their dance in 5-8 private lessons.
Are group classes included with private lessons?
Yes, all custom programs include access to weekly group classes for additional practice with different partners in social dance settings.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Tarryn Stokker
Mar 30, 2021 Report
Positive:Professionalism,Quality
My daughter looks forward to her dance class all week. Such a wonderful caring environment that allows her to enjoy learning new dances.
Simon Barker
Mar 29, 2021 Report
Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
My daughter has been attending ballet and tap dance classes for several years now and absolutely loves it. Samantha is very friendly and welcoming as well as being a great teacher. I would highly recommend Rochester School of Dance to anyone thinking of taking up dance.
Barbara Willing
Mar 27, 2021 Report
My daughter has been dancing for 9 years learning tap and modern dance at Rochester School of Dance. She absolutely loves every lesson, her dance exams and their shows at the Brook Theatre ! Miss Samantha encourages fun, learning, positivity and self esteem, encouragement in their learning and to be the best they can be !
Renata Tyrina
Mar 25, 2021 Report
My daughter attends modern, ballet and tap here and she absolutely loves it. She is looking forward for each lesson. There's nothing better then seeing your child coming out of a lesson happy and interested in what she has been learning. Miss Samantha is fantastic teacher- very friendly, enthusiastic, encouraging, inspirational. I am impressed by professionalism and amazing teaching style. Best dance teacher ever!
Donna Parkin
Dec 10, 2018 Report
My 2 girls attend classes here and absolutely love it! They have grown in confidence so much and I am amazed at how well their dance ability has progressed at a young age. Miss Samantha is fantastic with the kids, with an enormous level of enthusiasm so early on a Saturday morning! I would highly recommend Rochester School of Dance
Chloe Willing
Jul 25, 2018 Report
I have been at this school for nearly 7 years and it has been so much fun now we a practicing for our show at the brook in march