Student Spotlight:

Brandon Golshirazian

Salsa & Bachata Student

With Latino heritage and a musical family background, Brandon was exposed to salsa and bachata from a young age. Watching his relatives dance and enjoy these rhythms inspired him to finally take the leap and learn the dances himself. Salsa, in particular, struck a chord with him due to its vibrant energy and jazz-inspired musical complexity.

For Brandon, salsa offers more personal expression than bachata—likely because of his deep love for jazz and the upbeat nature of salsa music. He feels a strong connection to the rhythm, instruments, and improvisational spirit that salsa provides. The dance allows him to not just move, but to interpret the music and let his personality shine through.

His journey hasn’t been without its challenges, but Brandon is passionate about encouraging others to stick with it. He believes that growth happens through a combination of classes, practice, and especially social dancing. Whether it’s dancing with energetic beginners or attending community events at Movers and Shakers, Brandon emphasizes that the joy of sharing the music and movement always outweighs technical perfection.

1. What made you decide to learn both salsa and bachata?

I was very interest in learning both salsa and bachata because I was exposed to it through my family. I'm half Latino and seeing my family dance and listen to this music motivated me to finally learn it

2. Which dance do you feel allows for more personal expression, salsa or bachata? Why?

For me salsa allows me to express myself better. It's probably because I feel more in touch with the music and I enjoy the arrangement of instruments better. Salsa is Latin jazz and I already like jazz in itself. I really enjoy the upbeat nature of the songs too.

3. What advice would you give to new salsa and bachata students who are struggling with challenges in the learning process?

Stick with the classes for sure, but also make sure to dedicate time to practice and social dancing. Both are great skills but you'll quickly notice there are tons of different styles and or nuances to salsa when you go out. Practicing with classmates is important, but also go out and challenge yourself to use what you learned. Don't be afraid to make mistakes at look funny at first, because with time you will get better.

4. Would you prefer a dance partner who is technically skilled but very serious, or a beginner who is less skilled but brings a lot of fun and energy to the dance? Why?

Probably partner that is less skilled but more energetic. At the end of the day we're trying to have fun, so a simple but technically correct dance with a partner that can feel the music and share the experience with you beats and experienced partner. Unless you're trying to perform or something else then probably the experienced partner.

5. Have you participated in any events or socials organized by Movers and Shakers Dance Academy? If so, how was your experience?

Yes I've participated and they're always great. It's so nice to spend time with people out of class and learn about them outside of class and salsa. Also gives you an opportunity to network and make connections too 😁