Carolyn Barreno
I have been teaching Salsa, Bachata, and American Style Ballroom dancing since 2005, offering both private lessons and popular group classes. I recently relocated to Austin, TX from the San Francisco Bay Area, where I was one of the most respected instructors, as well as one of the most well known social Salsa/Bachata followers. While you can learn steps and patterns from many teachers, I teach you to really dance. Drawing on my years of experience and training as a professional dancer, I incorporate principles of technique, connection, and mood to help you dance your best.
I began competing in the Professional Rising Star American Rhythm division, as well as the Open Professional American Rhythm division in 2013, and prior to that competed and performed at an international level with RicaSalsa Dance Company's pro team. I have enjoyed a number of distinctions, including:
I also hold a JD from UC Hastings College of the Law and practiced as a business attorney for 5 years. I now bring my analytical mind to studying and teaching dance mechanics and sequencing, but also appreciate the elements of dance that defy analysis and continue to shape my craft every day.
I began competing in the Professional Rising Star American Rhythm division, as well as the Open Professional American Rhythm division in 2013, and prior to that competed and performed at an international level with RicaSalsa Dance Company's pro team. I have enjoyed a number of distinctions, including:
- 2016 & 2015 World Professional Rising Star Rhythm Finalist
- 2016 Portland Professional Open Rhythm Champion
- 2015 International Grand Ball Professional Rising Star Rhythm Champion
- 2015 Autumn Classic Professional Rising Star Rhythm Champion
- 2010 World Latin Dance Cup Professional Large Team Champion
- 2009 and 2011 World Latin Dance Cup Professional Team Finalist
I also hold a JD from UC Hastings College of the Law and practiced as a business attorney for 5 years. I now bring my analytical mind to studying and teaching dance mechanics and sequencing, but also appreciate the elements of dance that defy analysis and continue to shape my craft every day.