Gary and Terry Holmes began teaching Ballroom dance in 1979 and have been teaching in the Denver area since 1992. They are both certified instructors and Dance Directors and teach both the American and International styles of rhythm and smooth. In addition, they are both proficient instructors of all forms and styles of swing dance including Country. During their years as competitors, they danced a variety of styles, however, their primary competitive interest was the American smooth where they won a number of regional titles and placed as a finalist on a National level.

Although no longer involved in professional competition, both Gary and Terry compete with their students on a Pro-Am basis. They enjoy working with both beginning and advanced students and believe, above all, that learning to dance should be a fun and uplifting experience. Gary and Terry also believe that every student can learn to dance regardless of age, experience or physical abilities. They look forward to sharing this unique and exhilerating experience with each student.

Gary and Terry share the philosophy that what the student wishes to learn is always more important than what they wish to teach, therefore, they strive to personalize each lesson and program to the student's needs and desires. Through this "partnership in learning" approach, Gary and Terry have delighted in the accomplishments of their students. They look forward to instructing and sharing the joy of dancing with many others for years to come.

 
Emily Doak has been dancing since childhood. Before she was introduced to ballroom she trained primarily in contemporary/modern technique, choreography and performance. She explored a variety of styles including hip hop, jazz, ballet, capoeira, Butoh and African, yet has developed a strong passion for the partnership and connection required in ballroom dancing that is truly unique to the form. She is now a DVIDA certified instructor and continues to prepare for further certifications. She greatly enjoys the relationships she is able to build through teaching a variety of students, each of them requiring a different piece of her personality and a distinctive style of instruction. She believes that dancing is a luxury that everyone should enjoy. Emily is currently teaching American Style Smooth & Rhythm as well as training for professional competition in American Style Rhythm.


 
Ray Ulibarri began dancing just before his high school years; choreographing and performing for friends and family was a hobby of his. It was during his second year in high school that he decided this hobby would someday become a career. He trained in contemporary ballet, afro-modern, jazz, hip hop, and break dance. It was several years later when he was introduced to the ballroom world and at that juncture found his niche in the dance industry. Through his teaching experience he has found great pleasure watching his students progress and develop their craft over time and is honored to be the catalyst for such growth. He is DVIDA certified and offers instruction in American Style Smooth and Rhythm. He is also training for professional competition in American Style Rhythm. Ray continues to explore the many corners of dance and looks forward to improving his craft as often as possible.


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