Ballroom College
Ballroom College sprang from the creative minds at Ballroom Dance Chicago (BDC). We noticed many dance teachers we came across excelled in either dance technique or people skills, but rarely both. We also noticed there were many people who wanted to take lessons with BDC, but were constrained by budgets. Ballroom College is here to bridge those gaps. Our vision is simple: break down financial barriers and spread the joy of dance to as many people as we can.
Assistant Teachers:
At Ballroom College, we believe in a balanced approach to dance education. You won’t just be learning the steps; you'll be living them, teaching them, and loving every moment of it. We saw a trend in the dance industry where aspiring teachers often lose their learning curve due to teaching so many lessons. That's not our style. Here, you'll grow as a dancer and an educator, ensuring you step out ready to inspire and lead in the dance world.
As an assistant teacher with us, you're the heartbeat of our program. You'll get hands-on training and teach real classes, preparing you for a career that's as rewarding as it is fun. This experience is invaluable, and it means you'll leave us not just as a dance enthusiast, but as a confident, skilled teacher.
Community & Social Dancers:
Ballroom College isn't just for aspiring teachers. We're a hub for anyone in the community looking to dive into the world of dance, whether for fun, socializing, or even that special first dance. Our doors are open to all who share a common goal – to experience the joy of dance without the worry of high costs.
Our studio is more than just a place to learn; it's a vibrant community where friendships are forged on the dance floor. Our group classes and private lessons, led by our skilled assistant teachers, are designed to be accessible, affordable, and most importantly, enjoyable. We're passionate about making dance an integral part of life for everyone by breaking down the barriers that often keep people from stepping onto the floor.
Join Us!
So, if you're looking to add some rhythm to your life and help others do the same, Ballroom College is your go-to place. Join us in this journey to create some unforgettable dance experiences.
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We are 100% focused on teaching the next generation of dance teachers to be lovely, gracious, knowledgable individuals who have a deep desire to share their love of dance with others.
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We currently train dance teachers through Bronze IV in 12 styles of dance
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We have a beautiful space - if we do say so ourselves - and we love welcoming new and experienced dancers to take lessons with us.
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We believe exceptional teaching begins with a foundation of passion, is enhanced by a depth of knowledge, and truly excels when both passion and knowledge become instinctive. This intuitive understanding enables us to be fully engaged and present; able to guide our clients learning in any moment.
Meet the Team
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Matthew Sove
FOUNDER and DIRECTOR
Matthew is the founder of Ballroom College, Ballroom Dance Chicago and Ballroom Dance Chicago Fulton Market. He has been teaching and dancing professionally since 2004.
Before “going pro” - while in college and graduate school - he extensively studied modern/contemporary technique, contact improvisation and many ballroom, Latin and swing styles.
While he still teaches clients (some of whom he’s taught for 15+ years), he is most excited about sharing his love of teaching with other dance teachers.
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David Saucedo
LEAD TEACHER
David Saucedo, a proud native of Chicago, brings a wealth of teaching experience in Ballroom, Latin, and Swing dance styles. His extensive background in both teaching and competitive dancing has made him a respected figure in the dance community.
What captivates David about partner dancing is the profound connection that occurs when two bodies move in harmony. He is equally intrigued by the mechanics and physics that underlie the art of dance; particularly the Foxtrot, one of his favorite dances.
Beyond the dance floor, David is deeply passionate about wildlife conservation, dedicating his time and energy to the preservation of our planet's precious ecosystems.
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April Butcher
LEAD TEACHER
April is a Chicago-based dance artist who performs, teaches, and choreographs in many different dance worlds. While currently traveling through the social dancing world, she is also an Artistic Collaborator and Rehearsal Director with Ground Rhythm under the direction of Destine Young. She has also instructed jazz and hip hop at dance studios based in the Chicagoland area and continues to choreograph high school and middle school musical theatre productions.
April values sharing, empathy, confronting fears, active listening and collaboration with others.