Teaching and Artistic Philosophy

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I believe that the arts are as integral to our lives as any other discipline. They expand our ability to engage creatively with the world, fostering thoughtful communication and reflection. I approach teaching with the understanding that we experience and interact with the world in diverse ways. Therefore, I encourage my students to actively engage—physically, mentally, and, when appropriate, vocally—in the learning process. This holistic involvement allows students to embody and internalize knowledge, enabling them to translate it meaningfully into their everyday lives.

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Early in my career, Hector Zaraspe mentored me, and his example continues to shape my teaching philosophy. He taught me that a dance class is more than just mastering steps and techniques—it's an opportunity for personal discovery and artistic growth. Drawing from my extensive training in ballet and my background in Graham, Limón, and Taylor techniques, I teach Ballet, Modern Dance, and Choreography by blending traditional and contemporary practices. My aim is to equip dancers with the tools they need to meet the evolving demands of today's performance landscape.

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In my technique classes, I emphasize a clear and functional understanding of the body. Ballet classes focus on the classical form, prioritizing its structure and functionality beyond any particular style. This open approach—centered on movement mechanics and organic flow—makes ballet accessible to a wider range of body types. My modern and contemporary classes share this emphasis on functionality, fostering a deep connection between the movements' mechanics and their expressive potential.

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My classes are designed to develop key elements such as correct posture, endurance, speed, coordination, musicality, and the differentiation of movement qualities. I encourage students to explore transitions between movements and engage with the use of weight in space. Through disciplined practice and encouragement, students embark on a journey of self-discovery, where the process of developing artistry through dance gradually transforms from an aspiration into a reality.

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As a Brazilian artist, I am deeply influenced by the rich cultural diversity of my homeland. Growing up in Brazil, I was immersed in a unique blend of cultural influences, and this diversity is ingrained in my DNA. I take pride in the Brazilian spirit of freedom, expansive movement, and individuality, and I continue to explore and cultivate these elements in my work. My Brazilian heritage, combined with my exposure to international influences, informs my movement style and artistic approach. I see my research as a means of nurturing a sense of community that arises from cultural exchange, celebrating the joyful essence that is uniquely Brazilian.

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My teaching and creative practice are rooted in the education and experiences that have shaped my career, which includes the privilege of working with a wide array of choreographers. I use my choreographic works as a platform for research and to bridge the gap between the student, the performer, and the performance arena. I aim to inspire both performers and audiences toward self-discovery and connection, pushing them beyond their comfort zones and electrifying every performance with the vitality of the moment. By creating this dynamic exchange, I invite performers and viewers alike into the world we create onstage.

I am also interested in the role of technology as both a tool and a prop in the development of choreographic works, as well as in technique and creative classes. I often work with sound and video editing (using Final Cut) and manipulate digital images (via Photoshop) to inspire fresh ideas and concepts from collaborators, performers, and audiences. This integration of technology allows me to explore new dimensions of creativity and bring innovative concepts to life.

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Collaboration is central to my artistic process. I frequently work alongside composers, costume designers, set designers, and lighting designers to create engaging works for both students and professionals across contemporary, ballet, and theatrical genres (including plays and musicals). I believe that art should respond to the world around us, and my choreographic choices often address current social issues, fostering a dialogue between all participants—performers, collaborators, and viewers—through both traditional and contemporary artistic languages.

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As an educator and artist, my goal is to contribute to society by developing intelligent, confident, and socially aware professionals and artists. I am committed to fostering a deep appreciation for the art of dance, and to preparing my students for success in whichever field they choose. I believe that the lessons learned in the classroom should transcend the confines of the studio, and that dance is not just an isolated art form, but a meaningful part of life. By emphasizing the practical application of what students learn, I aim to equip them to navigate the world with creativity, insight, and purpose.