My Events Bridge Blog

Sunday Latin Bootcamp (Salsa & Bachata) with Lorans — Latin Jam

A day before the class, I found myself unexpectedly volunteering as a salsa partner for my friend’s private lesson with his instructor. I’m not a regular salsa dancer (let’s be real — my salsa journey counts maybe 3–4 classes total, all taken spontaneously before parties). But this time, I noticed something new. His teaching style stood out — especially one lesson that stuck with me: even if you break away from your partner to do your solo bit, when you reconnect, your steps should still sync perfectly with the beat. Sounds simple? Try it — not so much.

That little private-class spark led me to my next adventure, thanks to My Events Bridge — a Sunday Latin Bootcamp in Walnut Creek.

The Setup

📍 Mystique Ballroom Company
675 Ygnacio Valley Rd, Suite B102, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
🕒 3–5 PM
• 3 PM: Salsa
• 4 PM: Bachata
✅ Back-to-back — a full-on Latin immersion.

🚗 Parking: Free (right in front — a Bay Area miracle).
💳 Payment: Sign up via Eventbrite (search “Latin Jam Walnut Creek”). Advance tickets are slightly cheaper (Eventbrite fees apply). Walk-ins are $40 cash at the door. Combo packs available for multiple classes.
🎒 Storage: Cubicles near the entrance for your belongings.
👟 Shoes: Anything that glides easily. I go for sneakers; many ladies love salsa heels, but for beginners, comfort wins so you can focus on movement.

The Class

Lorans — the instructor behind Latin Jam — adjusts the level based on who shows up. That day, most of us were beginners, so we started with the forward-and-back basic step on the classic 1-2-3, pause, 5-6-7, pause, rhythm. Sounds robotic until the music hits and suddenly your hips have opinions.

On lucky days, you’ll catch live percussion — a rare bonus in dance classes. The percussionist volunteers his time, so bring a few dollars for the tip jar or you can venmo him. Let’s just say, no tips, no beats!

Fun fact: Salsa isn’t just one dance. There are several styles, and Lorans knows them all. He mentioned it casually — as if learning multiple dialects of rhythm was no big deal. (It is.) Did you know salsa originated from a fusion of African rhythms and European influences in Cuba, later evolving through Latin American immigrants in New York City? It became a symbol of cultural identity during the 1960s and ’70s — so yes, when you dance salsa, you’re literally moving through history.

Bachata — The Slower, Smoother Cousin

After an hour of lively salsa, we switched to bachata — slower, smoother, and undeniably sensual. While salsa is full of turns, spins, and sharp rhythm, bachata flows like a slow conversation between partners: more hip motion, closer connection, and a softer feel. If salsa says, “Let’s party!” bachata whispers, “Let’s stay a little longer.”

The Teaching Style

What sets Lorans apart is his personalized approach. He doesn’t just demonstrate; he dances with every student to understand their initial level. As partners rotate, he offers quick, tailored feedback and guides each person at their own pace — supportive, structured, and surprisingly fun. He also leads a performance team, and some regulars helped newer dancers during class, which made the room feel welcoming.

The Learning Curve

I’m far from a salsa pro (with my whopping 3–4 lifetime classes), but partner dancing stacks skills. Salsa looks easy until you realize half your energy goes into managing your elbows and keeping your frame responsive. In tango, the frame is compact and strong; in salsa, it’s looser and more flexible, leaving room for individual flair.

The Crowd & Vibe

You don’t need to bring a partner; the class rotates partners regularly unless you’re attending with someone specific. It’s a great way to meet different dancers and quickly adapt to various leads and follows. At one point, my partners asked how many times I’d been to the class before. I said, “This is my first one!” — which they refused to believe (flattering, I know). So, I had to confess: “I dance other styles.” The studio isn’t massive, but it’s cozy — enough space for everyone to move comfortably. I’m not sure of the max capacity, but it felt just right — intimate, energetic, and full of rhythm.

Practice Time (No Social Dancing)

There’s no official social afterward. Lorans encourages staying to practice, but on the day I attended, folks were happily done by 5 PM — mission accomplished.

Final Thoughts

Salsa is an instant mood-lifter — even when you step on the “other” right foot. If you’re salsa-curious and don’t want to trek into San Francisco, this Walnut Creek class is a perfect Sunday warm-up to joy. For more options, check Bay Area listings on My Events Bridge.

Support the Rhythm

If you’ve ever used My Events Bridge to find your next tanda, fusion wave, or salsa smile — you’ve already danced across this bridge with me. If my posts help you discover new places to dance, consider buying me a coffee (aka making a donation — even a small amount). Every bit helps me keep curating, exploring, and writing about the places where music meets movement — and where community comes alive. Your support keeps the bridge open, the lights glowing, and the stories spinning.