I've been at Salsa Fever on 2 for a Year and a half. Mario is an incredible teacher, he really loves what he does and wants us to succeed. I'm so lucky to have found such a wonderful community of people. I've grown a lot in more ways than just dance because they've encouraged me to take up so much space. We go to socials as a group a lot but one night when everyone had plans I decided to go out alone. And I thought to myself, timing and musicality has to be one of the best gifts I've ever been given. I can hold my own in any salsa room any where in the world all by myself and that felt and still feels like a super power. Thank you Mario B read more

After having gone to several Salsa schools, I can confidently say that Salsa Fever On2 is one of the best dance schools around. Mario B is a fantastic teacher- his patience, expertise, and relatability are unmatched. Additionally he has created a structured, progressive and enjoyable curriculum that is tough but fair. There are the 6 week cycled classes (once a week) and also regular workshops/specialized classes to round out your learning. There are even Pre-Beginner classes (so no matter your skill level- anyone can learn to dance here.) SFOn2 also hosts a monthly student practice party so that you can ease your way into applying what you learn in class to a social setting. Enough cannot be said about the vibe too. I've been to prior schools where it feels intimidating and awkward. SFOn2 prides itself on creating a warm welcoming environment that is invested in the growth of the students (this extends to all the additional instructors and assistants - everyone is really nice!) The class sizes are smaller which is a major bonus- you get much more personalized instruction. If you're looking to try Salsa dancing, you'd be hard pressed to find a better school in the North Jersey area. 10/10 would dance again. read more

If you are looking to build up the *best* fundamentals in salsa in all of the NJ / NYC area, look no further than Salsa Fever On 2. The studio offers 5 different levels of salsa dancing - from the very basics as a pre-beginner where you learn the fundamental footsteps of salsa - to their progressive intermediate class (advanced) where you get to learn moves that look like the ones you see only salsa professionals do. The group dance classes range from ~10-25 students for a given class, and the instructor is extremely attentive to you, carefully correcting mistakes that you make, unlike in other studios where there are too many students, such that the instructor doesn't have the time to help address anyone's mistakes. Compared to other dance studios, this dance studio also has a strong emphasis on timing and musicality that you won't be able to find anywhere else. The instructor, Mario, teaches you what instruments exist in a salsa song, what they sound like, and in what counts they are played. He even brings out the instruments for the students to hear their sounds. Fun fact, he personally has the legendary Tito Puente's conga drums in his studio that he brings forth in his musicality class. If you love the history of salsa, the instructor teaches a lot of its history in his classes, and he's friends with many of the legendary salsa musicians and dancers himself and shares many of their stories, having known them personally. He's actually a living legend in the salsa community as well, for any history buffs out there. Mario gets to really get to know you personally outside of just being a student at the studio and has become one of my closest friends outside of just being my salsa instructor. He creates a vibrant community in the dance studio where you'll also make much of your close friendships with the other students. Many of the students go out to social dance every week with the other students from the studio, and Salsa Fever On 2 also hosts a monthly social at the studio itself, so if you're looking for making friends while dancing, this is an excellent, tight-knit place to join. A great plus is that the instructor is absolutely hilarious, so during our group classes, we all end up laughing throughout the whole class. A lot of us came to the studio for the dance, and we stay for the jokes. -- I also took a series of 5 private lessons with the instructor, and cannot highly recommend that enough, even for existing students at the dance studio! A lot of small details that I would've never picked up were taught to me during the private lessons, and my salsa level increased by a dozen-folds after the lessons. read more

Salsa Fever On2 Dance Academy - Dance Studios Near Me - Jersey City, New Jersey

Instruction is great BUT BEWARE ... it's also where instructors use their students as a dating pool though married

The instructor Mario Gonzalez was extremely unprofessional, rude, and honestly a terrible teacher. He kept making unnecessary racist comments during the entire class. We went to a "pre-beginner" class, and he barely taught the steps and then would put people on the spot and make fun of people. He was a bully. He kicked someone out of the class for not doing the dance right, and it is a PRE BEGGINER class..... he should be encouraging them to try and not kick them out. WOULD NOT RECOMMEND THIS PLACE AT ALL. Terrible experience. read more

SalsaOn2 brings so much joy to my life. Mario B is such an amazing teacher and I have learned so much from him and his supporting crew. The second you step into the studio, you feel welcomed and like part of the salsa family. It's truly a special place. I highly recommend learning the basics at this studio and working your way up to the more challenging cycles. It is such a fun community that I am forever grateful to be a part of. read more

I came to Salsa Fever On 2 Dance Academy completely new to the world of dance, with the hope that I could pick up dancing as a new social skill. What I found was not only an incredible school, but also a community that was supportive, down to earth, and friendly. Over the months that I've been at the studio, I've unexpectedly not only made many friends among the students and instructors, but also have found a family that's been supportive of me in both my salsa journey and my personal life. Curriculum: 10/10 The school's curriculum is extremely structured, with a focus on strong fundamentals and natural progression. There are weekly cycled classes that build upon and reinforce material each week, and there are weekly + monthly specialty classes and workshops that help to further strengthen your dance in areas such as timing and leading/following. Some of these classes even feature other dances, such as Bachata or Cha Cha Cha. A focus on fundamentals is the school's core strength, and it shows when you dance with individuals outside of the school. The structure makes it very easy for students to learn at their own pace, and there are classes for everybody. Staff: 10/10 The staff at the dance academy are one-of-a-kind, with a true focus on the well-being of their students. The assistants and instructors are extremely friendly, and they provide constructive feedback when needed to further your growth. Mario, the founder, director, and main instructor of the academy, is an educator through and through. His years and variety of experience make it easy for him to point out what you need to improve. On top of all that, he's absolutely hilarious. Sometimes, it feels like I'm getting a two-for-one deal: a salsa school + a comedy club for the price of one! Pricing: 9/10 The pricing is very reasonable. There are about 11 classes each week, covering all levels from pre-beginner to beginner to intermediate and above. The monthly pass allows you to take as many of these classes as you want, and even covers the socials and practice parties. If you're able to take advantage of more classes, then it is definitely a steal. However, If you're unable to take advantage of all the classes due to time constraints, and instead decide to pay per class, then the cost does go up significantly. However, it is pretty easy to make up for the value of the monthly pass, assuming you take at least 1 - 2 classes a week. Overall, the studio is a fantastic place to be. I've found myself hanging out with other students and instructors inside and outside the dance studio, whether it's just catching up and talking after class, or grabbing dinner and hanging out on a weekend. Whether you're casually or seriously interested in learning how to dance salsa, you'll find a fun, supportive environment, with a diverse array of amazing people. read more

I have been in several schools all over the USA. Started dancing in Chicago, then New Hampshire (in two different schools), then Boston, then Brooklyn and I finally ended up in Salsa Fever on 2 in Jersey City. I know how other schools are and I can tell that this School is the best. The classes are well designed for us to learn. They are all about quality. They make sure you learn, they watch you and they test you. I am happy I finally found my salsa family. read more

Salsa Fever on2 is a place where not only do you walk out learning a new step but making a new friend. Instructors, staff / assistants, and students are friendly and willingly to help. Being apart of this school has not only made me the dancer I am today but has given me a second home and family. Mario B. is a stand for his students to get everything that is possible in each of his class. With either its a questions, a joke, an answer, a story, a salsa history lesson Mario B fills his class with knowledge and information that helps all students get the result of understanding the move. SFO2 also provides practice parties for students and friends to come into a relaxed environment and practice moves that have been learned during class without feeling intimated. You can always catch a dance with staff or team members that help you practice moves. Staff keeps you updated on where to dance outside of the studio such as other socials, clubs, congresses, festivals, etc. On a personal note, I remember walking into my first class at SFO2 and thinking this should be fun and a nice hobby, not knowing that my life would change because of this amazing school. I went from a student, to a student team member, to staff/instructor, to now being Mario B's dance partner. I didnt have those expectations when I first walked in, but that's the foundation that SFO2 and Mario B builds, you CAN walk out with just a lesson or a future passion that you never thought you could reach. read more

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I became a member of the SalsaFeverOn2 family back in the fall of 2006. I danced on1 back then, but once I took my first beginner walk-in class on2, I was hooked. I learned my fundamentals in a fun, friendly, and structured environment, and was able to put those skills to use every other Friday at their student practice parties. And every month, I was inspired at their monthly socials, where some of the the more advanced dancers showed off their best moves. I met so many great people during my weekly classes. After a few years I joined the SFOn2 student team. This is where I developed friendships that will last a lifetime. SFon2 really became my home away from home, and it still is. Mario and Bernie have made a very big impact on my life. They have spent countless hours in class and rehearsals sharing their techniques with me to help me improve my skills. They care about quality instruction first and foremost, and they also teach their students social dancing ettiquete so that they are prepared when they take their skills outside of the studio. Mario teaches a must-take Timing and Musicality workshop each month, which is so important for every dancer out there. He is extremely passionate and reputable in his craft, and sincerely cares about all of the possibilities that can happen for each student that comes through his front door. You can't go wrong learning to dance salsa and shedding some pounds, while getting quality, personalized instruction in a fun and friendly environment!!! read more

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I've been taking salsa classes here & I just completed my 3rd class! I really love this studio and the instructors! While I'm still taking the pre-beginner classes, every time I leave I'm motivated to keep practicing so I can test into the next level! I've dropped into a few other salsa classes in the JC/Hob area and this is by far my favorite studio! I'm looking forward to learning new moves and techniques. read more

I've been going to Salsa fever on 2 for over a year. It's been an amazing experience. My salsa skills have improved tremendously. I used to dream of going to salsa socials and be able to dance well and now because of Mario's excellent coaching I'm able to do that. Mario is a great teacher, very professional, friendly and he's committed to your succes. His teaching technique is very engaging and you learn the why not just the how. The classes are structured in a way that makes it easier for you to learn in small steps and enough practice. Highly recommend SFOn2!!!! read more

The best salsa school. If you are looking for the best dance school, just walk in here. Don't even waste your time trying others. They don't just show how to dance, but they explain details until you understand. If you are serious, they will teach you seriously even more. read more

I'd taken classes for years at different dance schools in NYC, but it wasn't until I started with Mario at SFON2 that I realized that I had never really learned the fundamentals properly. Unlike schools that are impersonal mills, Mario is passionate about teaching and making sure his students are really learning, not just skating by. He's a stickler for timing, footwork and proper lead/follow technique and will not let you cheat/develop bad habits in those fundamentals. It's the only school I know of that actually assesses individual student progress. The way Mario structures his curriculum makes it simple for anyone to start from an absolute beginner (i.e. never danced in their life) and progress quickly (of course, depending on how much practice time you put in). The weekend workshops are also so helpful because they break down certain areas that need extra attention - Timing & Musicality, Ladies styling, Lead/Follow, Body movement. Beyond being very solid instruction, the school creates such a friendly and encouraging environment with all the students and instructors. The instructors balance a sense of humor with clear instruction. There is a sense of community so it helps to get over feeling intimidated or shy about practicing with others or at practice parties. I love dancing with guys who have taken classes there because it feels so good to dance with somebody who is giving a strong and clear lead. read more

I walked into Mario's SFON2 studio about 2 years ago, heartbroken, in search of new friends after graduating college and just feeling like I was lost in the daily monotonous routine of adult life. I always wanted to learn how to dance salsa but never had the courage to actually do it. Little did I know how much my life would change the second I stepped foot into that studio. I believe everything happens for a reason and dance came into my life when I needed it the most, 2 months after I started dancing I found out my dad was very ill and the SFON2 studio and the little "Salsa Family" I was creating became my stress outlet and something that allowed me to stay focused on the positive things, when it seemed like darkness and hopelessness surrounded me. I showed up to class on a daily basis, challenged myself to learn the steps, I grew as a dancer and as an individual and here is why I have never left: -SFON2 has a strong belief in mastering the fundamentals of dance, things that a person with no dance background has no idea they need. Balance, control, frame, TIMING. You spend time mastering proper foot placement, spacing, weight transfer and styling. For example, I learned a basic right turn DAY 1 of class and I am still learning new ways to perfect it. -Quality instructions and Instructors - the classes are intimate, no overcrowding and people actually know your name. Because of this Mario and his staff able to focus on each student to ensure they're learning and improving every time they show up to class. I always left feeling like I was getting better or I had a new homework assignment to work on and practice. -I learned life lessons that I didn't know I needed, to be used in dance and in life. For example, during first private lesson with Mario I found myself saying "I can't get this" and "this step is too hard". Mario knocked on the wall and said "the wall is hard, these steps aren't" I also learned what it meant to keep yourself accountable for the things you do. If you don't practice your steps, expect that you will not improve. Don't be upset at the instructor or that the shines are too hard it's you who isn't doing what they're supposed to. -I gained confidence in myself that is evident in all aspects of my life. -My Salsa Family is AWESOME!!! As you can see so many positive things have come from being a student at SFON2. I am so grateful for the experience and I highly recommend this studio to anyone I come across. Truly a one of a kind space. If you're ready for a positive change, take a salsa class with Mario, you'll never regret it! read more

Took my girlfriend here for a fun time out and was disappointed by the overall experience. I found the instructor to be rather arrogant and off putting in his instruction. The reason most people take beginner classes is because they are BEGINNERS and perhaps just looking for a new/fun experience which would seem to be obvious (but maybe not). The assistants that help out with the class are very personable and helpful but next time we want to take lessons we'll cross the Hudson and head into the city. read more

SFon2 is the place to go if you want to learn how to love salsa. Mario's curriculum helps students learn the basic dance form, for sure, but in nearly every class you walk away with a deeper appreciation for the dance, history, music, and culture of Salsa. I cannot recommend this studio highly enough. The instructors are fun and thoughtful. The studio is clean and bright. The community of students is supportive and light-hearted. And, the salsa is so effin good. read more

This studio changed my life the moment I decided to walk through those doors. I went in wanting to learn a little salsa and never left. The environment is warm, welcoming, honest, and a great place to learn and grow in the dance community. read more

I'm a huge fan, can't stop talking about it!! If you want to learn to dance latin rhythm with lots of support and no pressure to buy expensive packages, this is the place! It's very much a warm, homey kind of place. The students and instructors are mainly latinos under 40, although all ethnicities and ages represented. Did I mention there's an astonishing amount of men there? Yes! They have socials in the studio and various socials in local clubs as well. It's a smallish studio, but very well appointed and maintained. Hope to see you on the dance floor! read more

The kind of place that tries to teach you how to salsa without turning on any music. My fiance and I went to a Saturday afternoon beginner salsa class and for the entire hour and a half of the class Mario made us feel like he was better than us. When I tried to show enthusiasm for being at the class, despite the lack of music, Mario reacted as if all he cared about was embarrassing my flawed "marching" sequence. At no point did I feel relaxed at all. I could tell how much Mario hated teaching when I asked questions and he wouldn't answer me directly, instead he made distasteful joking scenarios about his ex girlfriend and cheating. Awful, awful, awful. We left feeling insulted. .....At one point Mario even told me that his masters degree in psychology is what makes him such a good dancer........Save your money and your precious time!!! Life is too short for one star, expensive experiences!!! read more

Mario's classes are just average; at times you feel rushed into learning new steps which create frustration in some students including me. Also, there are not enough people assisting him that can provide you some much needed one-one one attention. I feel that Mario does not handle large groups very well. He does better with smaller classes. So I decided to look for another dance school around NJ. read more

Unbelievably accepting and humble staff. Dancers at all levels would feel right on home here. 1:1s are available if you're very green and after a few sessions you'll be able to jump right into a class. Your only regret will be waiting so long to sign up. read more

I have been taking classes/dancing on and off with Salsa Fever On2 for about 6 years. Having taken dance classes elsewhere (mostly BDC in Manhattan), I have to say the instruction here is top notch. Mario B will absolutely give you the strongest foundations to take your dancing to whatever level you choose to take it. Even though I come and go with classes (due to work/school other commitments), once I step back into class from a hiatus, I'm right where I left off...I don't feel like I have to start all over again (although its always great to refresh what you've learned). That is how well structured the classes are!! And I'm always welcomed back with open arms. The SFO2 school really is like a tight knit family, you absolutely won't be disappointed in learning to dance here. read more

I took Mario's classes about 3 years ago while I dated someone in NJ. Have to say I love them!!! He is a character, great instructor and teaches you the basics with a solid foundation of salsa and the counts. Not to mention the free WINE during class was nice too... lol I would recommend his class to anyone who really wants to learn with no BS'ing. Plus if you need a good laugh, Mario B is the man! I would love to go back, BUT I'm stuck in Brooklyn for a few more years. read more

I took classes in this studio from June 2007 up until 2009. What I liked about the school at the time is that it had a curriculum for each level so you could go home and practice during the week without forgetting what you learned...if you took notes. The school really focuses on fundamentals and technique. Recently, they split out the floor shine classes and the partnerwork classes, which was well received by the students. There are plenty of students in the classes, so you can rotate and dance with different people. The school also has practice parties every 1st, 3rd, and 5th Friday of the month, which is good since it is a non-intimidating environment for students to practice social dancing. Socials are at the end of the month on every 4th Saturday, which is another opportunity to social dance...so there are plenty of avenues to get out on the dance floor and practice what was learned in class. The timing class is a must! It really breaks down the instruments used in mambo and the count to each one. This is a great place to meet people...everyone is very friendly and the staff is really dedicated. This place is their second home. There is street parking only, so get there early because class will start without you. The other thing to remember is that if the instructors point out what you are doing wrong, don't take it personally. That's what they are there for...to correct your errors and help you learn. If we all knew how to dance, we wouldn't take classes. read more

I miss this Salsa Academy! I am hoping to go back very soon...The instructors are awesome and you feel very relaxed. You want to go to a good Salsa on 2 school, GO HERE!!! :) read more

I love Mario and all of the other classes that they offer here. He's super entertaining and definitely knows his craft. Practice makes perfect though so make sure you practice, practice, practice because you will get left behind. I wish I would have done this sooner but there's no time like the present. I came in with two left feet and slowly but surely I'm actually learning how to dance. Great experience for sure and would recommend this place to anyone. read more

I remember the first day, fall of 2006, I placed foot on the doors of Salsa Fever on 2 and just looking forward to conquering one of my fears of dancing (wow my 5 year anniversary is coming up). I had no idea what I was really getting myself into but I was greeted by the Director Mario B. and he definitely made it feel like a safe and comfortable environment. I would have to thank a very dear close friend/sister of mine for introducing me to this school and Mario B. for opening the doors to the world of dance in the on 2 community because it definitely has changed my life. I only lasted about 6 months from the first day I started learning through the schools structured curriculum, but not for any other reason than having other priorities in life I had to walk away. I came back 3 years later to return to the same warm welcoming environment that I had experienced day 1 and also reconnect with some great old friends and family. Now, having about 2 years under my belt from the direction of Salsa Fever on 2 I can only thank Mario, Bernie, and others that have influenced my dancing to where it is today. I know that this school has gone through a lot of good change and I challenge those that have walked through those doors to reconnect. I know Mario B. is a great person and has nothing but good honest intentions in sharing his wealth of knowledge to those that are willing to accept his openness. So, come down and build your confidence as you venture on the dance floor and challenge yourself in this friendly, unintimidating environment. These instructors know that sometimes it's difficult to enjoy dancing when you feel a bit unsure or intimidated, but I know it can be fun and exciting as you grow and learn from the best. read more

I've started taking salsa and bachata lessons from this fine establishment about a month ago with no experience in either. Classes are top shelf, the teachers are great and keep classes fun, and you learn a LOT in a short period of time. It's incredibly fun and I love it. read more

Mario B and the whole SFon2 family are simply amazing! I started with no experience in dancing salsa, yet feel welcome each and every time I walk through the door. Everyone, from the instructors to the students, is so friendly; they really make you feel like you're a part of a close knit family. Having taken some other dance classes in another studio, it is evident that Mario and his staff are truly talented. I love that they break down the footwork every week so that it is clear to understand and easy to grasp the steps. Not only are you learning, but the most important thing is that you're having fun too. You can tell that everyone at SFon2 is passionate about dancing and that shines through in each lesson! =) read more

Sfon2 is great place to learn salsa. Mario B and his experienced instructors such as Rudy Acosta, Luis Matute, and Janet Acevedo have been in the salsa scene for over 10+ years. They teach their students the fundamentals of dancing on 2, from basic steps to advance footwork, dance combinations, timing & musicality , body isolation, spinning and styling and many more. Sfon2 offers a structured class schedule to promote student at progress at all levels. read more

Salsa Fever On2 Dance Academy - 2018 Salsa Fever on 2 Annual Holiday Gala with the beautiful Salseras!!! - Dance Studios Near Me - Jersey City, New Jersey

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I learned to dance salsa on one, and have been dancing on one for over ten years. When I moved to NJ a few years ago, I did a few classes in NYC hoping to learn how to dance on 2, because nobody really dances on one here. It didn't take. Every time I went into a turn pattern, I would go right back on one. After a few weeks of doing classes with Mario and his fantastic instructors, I know that I've finally made the transition. To address another reviewer below, I have to say YES it is possible to learn to dance without music on. In the pre beginners classes, I was able to get accustomed to learning and feeling this new salsa basic, to remember the steps without thinking too hard about it. Mario also trains your ear to listen to the music. The combination of really understanding your foundation steps, knowing what steps coincide with each count and what to listen for in the music? It's unbeatable. So is being able to repeat classes and workshops at your leisure. I think Mario's emphasis on repetition is so important, and here's why: When I hear a song I like, I forget all about counting and go with total instinct. But when your ear is trained, and your body remembers the steps, then you always know where you are. I can't begin to tell you how much more confident I feel now, because I've finally got it! So kudos to Salsa Fever On2 on your excellent curriculum. Thank you, and I'll be bringing my husband to class so you can work your magic on him too! read more

Awesome place, fun classes, fun instructors, burn calories, learn a new skill. Gooooo!

Excellent quality dance school for those looking to truly learn a new skill and have proper instruction. I started two months ago with no prior experience and am having a blast. Great sense of community as well. read more

Mario is an awesome instructor, but tends to over react and loses his cool with students. For NJ it is one of the best, unfortunately there is not much competition in NJ. I was ready to increase my salsa skills to the next level, but was turned off by Mario's attitude and decided to spend my money in NYC and get the real deal in salsa education. If you are in NJ and NYC is too much of a hassle then I would recommend this school, but if you are serious about Salsa skills then I recommend you head to Dance on 2 in NYC or other great salsa academies in the City. Good luck. read more

I recently attended a free salsa lesson here and it was fairly decent. There were quite a few people attending but the instructor made time to go around and correct individuals on specific errors. The class was taught at a good pace and everyone had the hang of the salsa steps by the end! It was also nice that they provided an opportunity to practice skills after the class in the 'dance party' session. read more

Mario B and his staff of instructors are top quality. Such a fun place to learn, meet new people, and dance your stress away! Definitely a must try it to experience the wonderful of salsa dancing! They give you all the instructions and it's up to you to get out there and practice and join the world of salsa dancing. Great workout too! read more

Simply put: The best place to learn Salsa on 2 in New Jersey. The teaching is very technical and you learn how to dance the RIGHT way, not rushed. They always have monthly salsa socials where you can practice your dance moved and BYOB. Doesn't get any better! Take one class and you'll be hooked! read more

I started classes at Salsa Fever in their pre-beginner classes sometime earlier this year. I have to say that Mario B is a GREAT instructor! He takes the time to teach you even in a group setting. He is very upfront and straight forward but you can tell he has the passion for this business which is very evident. His goal is for you at the end of the day is to actually learn something when you leave his doors. I've taken other classes at different places before and people dont take the time which can be fustrating. He is very patient and cracks jokes like no other. He's funny which can ease the tension to make it a fun atmosphere! What sets him apart from others is that he teaches the other fundamentals of dancing; not just the actual moves. He has all different types of workshops with one most importantly called "Timing and Musicality" which teaches you how to listen to the music which NO ONE I know does. His staff is sooo friendly and sweet. It can be intimidating at times but the staff makes you feel so at home that it's become like a second home to me. You couldnt ask for a better place to start learning how to dance salsa! read more

Great instructors and a fun environment! Structure and attention to fundamentals allows for new students to build a strong dancing foundation and experienced dancers to sharpen their skills. And wine during class?! Love it here! read more