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Search Results for: Latin

Edwin “El Calvito” Reyes

Edwin El Calvito Reyes, Winner of the Paoli Prize 2019, as Tropical Revelation of the Year

Edwin El Calvito Reyes
Edwin El Calvito Reyes

Undoubtedly, today, considered by legends and colleagues of the salsa genre, as one of the fastest growing exponents, projecting and establishing its brand, at a firm pace and worldwide; Winner of the Paoli Prize 2019, as Tropical Revelation of the Year, he is Edwin “El Calvito Reyes”.

Born on April 19, 1974, he had his childhood in a humble 20-foot-square wooden house and graduated as an Electrician from the Higher Vocational School in his beloved Trujillo Alto in May 1992.

He then graduated with studies in Tele-Communication at the University of the Sacred Heart of P.R. This 2020, “El Calvito” is scheduled to finish his Master of Science, with a major in Entertainment Business, at Full Sail University in Orlando, FL. (Entertainment Business, Master of Science).

Edwin El Calvito Reyes on stage
Edwin El Calvito Reyes on stage

Although in OCT 2018, it was his first appearance in the world, with his own musical proposal, “El Calvito” has a career and / or musical history, of more than 25 years, which began to the tune of Plena in his native Trujillo Alto.

Since childhood, music has been his passion. Edwin continued to show his leadership and passion for music, and already in 1993, Edwin began to make himself known in his hometown with PLENA, keeping the culture and tradition of a people alive. As early as 1996,

Edwin joined the US Army and, in his spare time, began singing salsa, thanks to Mr. Víctor París and Mr. Godreau “Papo Salsa” who offered him the first opportunity to share his talent with the community of Hinesville, Ga in 1996, singing salsa classics.

Since then, “El Calvito” has been performing all genres of Latin music in the United States; Never leaving behind its origin, nor its vision.

Edwin El Calvito Reyes with the award
Edwin El Calvito Reyes with the award

“El Calvito” Reyes has several many LIVE SALSA performances in South Korea and the Middle East (Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Turkey), with more than 10 thousand soldiers (combined count) dancing to the rhythm of live music, relieving all types of stress in combat and highly raising their morale. A genuine leader, who brings that same leadership to the sauce in a very entertaining way.

Over time, thanks to Sergeant Alberto Sánchez and Sub-Officer Carlos Negrón, he joined the Official Salsa Orchestra in the U.S. Army (LATINO CONJUNTO DEL ARMY DE USA), to later become the officer in charge of it.

An Officer who, for 6 consecutive years, was personally tasked with selecting and forming the Only Latin Music Orchestra, ever assembled, in the US Army, whose purpose was to act for dignitaries and personalities (Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton, Jennifer López, Olga Tañón, Vicente Fox, etc.), within the National Conventions of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) and Annual Presidential Galas. Clearly leaving an immense legacy in that difficult world. Also, El Trujillano is one of the few salseros in the world that has been able to perform live at the Seoul Olympic Stadium in South Korea.

Edwin El Calvito Reyes
Edwin El Calvito Reyes

Immediately after that performance, “El Calvito” performed in 2012, at the Asian Salsa Congress, where dancers from around the world gathered to compete along the rhythms of their music in the course of an extravaganza of 7 days.

He is an artist without equal. After 22 years of active military service, including more than 65 months accumulated in combat, “El Calvito” Reyes has established his own brand, appearing before a large number of people throughout the American country and Puerto Rico. “El Calvito” is a true warrior and avant-garde in this new era of salseros that will surely keep them dancing from start to finish.

Don’t wait for the magic call. He seeks his own, very professional, and has earned the respect of many employers, DJs and Promoters around the world, for his kindness, professionalism and above all his show.

In this past March 2020, “El Calvito” was one of the guests of honor for one of the Bailables prior to the National Day of Zalsa in Puerto Rico, sharing the stage with greats such as NG2, N’Klabe, Carlos Javier, and Abrante, as well as, Julio Badillo and the Salsa Stars, Julio López, Kayvan Vega and many more, making their music shine by its own light and gain the respect and admiration of several present, the international press and their colleagues.

Edwin El Calvito Reyes on stage
Edwin El Calvito Reyes on stage

Also, Edwin is part of the first star cast to perform at the FIRST NATIONAL DAY OF LA ZALSA in ORLANDO, FL, alongside stars like Willie Rosario, Eddie Palmierie, India, Jerry Rivera, Grupo Niche and many more “El Calvito” does not stop here, as he has also been chosen to be a fundamental part of the 22nd Anniversary of the Salsa Cruise, along with stars such as Maelo Ruiz, Luisito Carrion, Andy Montañez, Grupo Gale, Grupo Niche and Chino Núñez.

Publicly blessed by Legends such as TITO NIEVES, TITO ROJAS, TITO ALLEN, BOBBY CRUZ, CHINO NÚÑEZ, LALO RODRIGUEZ, WILLIE ROSARIO, PAQUITO ACOSTA LUIS GONZALEZ “EL TSUNAMI”, among others, confirms Edwin “El Calvito” Reyes, as a S Today, at the level you deserve.

Since it came out live on OCT 2018, “el Calvito” has not stopped shining in its own light. Now, he celebrates the worldwide successes of his latest songs, “QUIERO BAILAR CON ELLA”, “TOCALE LA MOÑA”, “MI RITMO SE LLAMA” ZALSA “,” MI TIERRA QUERIDA ”SONEROS DE SANGRE NUEVA, and the most recent SO CALLED THE COUNT.

So what’s next for Edwin “El Calvito” Reyes? “Work hard, with honesty, respect and dignity, in favor of the genre of salsa, in general. Stay humble, loyal to my followers and, of course, continue with my faith in God.

Edwin “El Calvito” Reyes The music of our Hispanic brother and Boricua, Edwin “El Calvito” Reyes is found on all digital platforms (CD Baby, iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, Google Music, YouTube Music, etc.) His music continues to occupy prestigious positions on Global Radio.

Edwin “El Calvito” Reyes has a high reputation, as a truly dedicated human being, passionate about contributing to the salsa genre, who studies and respects the genre’s pioneers and their contemporaries.

With an energy on stage that will make you dance from start to finish. Also, as a person who provides a great environment with his leadership and professionalism, with Latin Music for his communities, but above all, as a family man; and of faith.

Edwin El Calvito Reyes
Edwin El Calvito Reyes

Wilson “Chembo” Corniel Jr.

Wilson “Chembo” Corniel Jr.“A sprinkling of be-bop, a touch of swing with a dollop of bomba, rumba, tango and danzón topped with ‘un chin’ de charanga.”

Grammy award nominated percussionist Wilson “Chembo” Corniel was born in Manhattan on November 22, 1953 of proud Puerto Rican parents; Chembo was raised in the humble streets of Red Hook, Brooklyn.

1- Wilson “Chembo” Corniel Jr

Wilson “Chembo” Corniel Jr

It was during these years, as a quick-witted youngster, that he had the privilege and honor to study with such percussion luminaries as, Tommy Lopez Sr., “Little Ray” Romero, Louie Bauzo, and Cachete Maldonado.

Chembo honed his skills at The Harbor Conservatory for the Performing Arts in New York, and also at the prestigious La Escuela Nacional de Arte in Havana, Cuba under the direction of the great Chucho Valdés.

His intense studies with such legends noted above channeled his energy onto a path where Wilson “Chembo” Corniel has now created a reputation for himself among musicians and the public. Today, he is considered as one of the best hard-hitting, versatile percussionists around.

Chembo teaches percussion to students at the SUNY Purchase Conservatory of Music and leads numerous clinics throughout the United States where he brings awareness to others of the rich Afro-Caribbean traditions.

Among his credits, Chembo was chosen to create his own instructional DVD called, “An Introduction to Hand Percussion: Volume I—Congas”. It was released in December of 2000 and with distribution by Warner Brothers it has been a success.

He’s been a vital endorser of Latin Percussion instruments since 1982 as he is currently for Remo drum heads, Vic Firth sticks and Sabian cymbals.

His touring credits are as long as his performing credits. Chembo has toured with many major artists throughout Europe, Asia, North & South America, and the Caribbean. Television credits include an appearance on the “Bill Cosby Show” and a recurring recording gig on Nickelodeon’s children show, “Dora the Explorer”.

Chembo continues to perform and/or record with many artists of different genres. He is currently concentrating on leading his own Latin Jazz quintet, “Chembo Corniel Quintet”. Chembo received a GRAMMY NOMINATION by NARAS IN 2009 for “BEST LATIN

JAZZ ALBUM” for his 2009 cd “Things I Wanted To Do”. This is a well-balanced Latin Jazz group that incorporates many rich traditions, such as writer Aurora Flores states:

“A sprinkling of be-bop, a touch of swing with a dollop of bomba, rumba, tango and danzón topped with ‘un chin’ de charanga.”

Wilson “Chembo” Corniel Jr. ARTISTS: RECORDINGS:

  • Wilson “Chembo” Corniel – “Land Of The Descendants” – 2016
  • Wilson “Chembo” Corniel – “Blue Monk” (ASM) – 2012
  • Wilson “Chembo” Corniel – “Things I Wanted To Do” – 2009
  • Akiko Tusuruga – Orient Express – 2009
  • Wilson “Chembo” Corniel – “For The Rest Of Your Life” – 2007
  • Mark Sherman – Family – 2007
  • Carlos Jimenez – El Flautista – 2007
  • Akiko Tusuruga – Sweet And Funky – 2006
  • Chris Washburne & SYOTOS – Land Of Nod – 2006
  • Chembo Corniel & Andrea Brachfeld – Beyond Standards 2006
  • Willie Martinez – La Familia – 2005
  • Hilton Ruiz – Steppin’ With T.P. – 2005
  • Wilson “Chembo” Corniel – Portrait In Rhythms – 2004
  • Ray Vega – Squeeze Squeeze2004
  • Chris Washburne & SYOTOS – Paradise In Trouble – 2003
  • Steve Wilson – Soulful Songs – 2003 Larry Harlow’s
  • Latin Jazz – Live At Birdland -12/02
  • Chico Freeman – By The Way -4/2002
  • Ray Vega – Pa’lante -3/2002
  • Blood, Sweat & Tears – Christmas Album -12/02
  • Chris Washburne & SYOTOS – The Other Side – 4/2001
  • David Gonzalez & LLB – Sofrito3/2000
  • Bobby Sanabria BIG BAND-Live At Birdland -2/2000
  • (Grammy Nominated) Chris Washburne & SYOTOS – Nuyorican Nights -10/99
  • Ray Vega – Boperation- 8/99
  • Larry Harlow – Latin Legends Band – 5/98
  • The Bronx Horns – Silver in the Bronx – 4/98
  • Greg Abate – Sweet Samba – 3/98
  • Buddy Montgomery Trio – Here Again -1/98
  • Ray Vega – Ray Vega -12/97
  • Willie Colón – Honra y Cultura Louie Ramirez – El Genio de la Salsa Jose Bello – Jose Bello y su Orchestra Bobby Rodriguez y la Compañia – Hay Que Cambiar La Rutina

ARTISTS: TOURS/PERFORMANCES:

  • Chucho Valdés
  • Hilton Ruiz
  • Buddy Montgomery
  • Angela Boll
  • Tito Puente
  • Grady Tate
  • Machito
  • Willie Colón
  • Toshiko Akiyoshi
  • Jane Bunnett & Spirits of Havana
  • Bobby Sanabria Big Band
  • Charlie Sepulveda
  • Andrea Brachfeld
  • Ray Vega
  • Bob Baldwin
  • Jose Alberto “El Canario”
  • Pete “El Conde” Rodriguez
  • Larry Harlow
  • Tito Nieves
  • Louie Ramirez
  • Chico Freeman
  • Chris Washburne & the Syotos Band
  • Chico O’Farrill Big Band
  • Bobby Rodriguez y Compañia
  • Lainie Kazan
  • Celia Cruz

Directory North America

Santa Mónica,  California Los Ángeles Santa Clarita, California Los Ángeles
Rancho Cucamonga, California San Bernardino Pomona, California Pomona Oceanside, California San Diego

San Diego, California San Diego

Rancho Mirage, California Rancho Mirage Santa Barbara, California Santa Barbara Salinas, California Salinas

Santa Ana, California Santa Ana

Seaside, California Seaside

San Francisco, California San Francisco

Alameda, California Oakland

California – Contra Costa

California – Los Ángeles

California – Marin California – Salinas California – Seaside

California – Orange

 

 

Franky Swing

Latin America / Venezuela / Caracas

Franky Swing: From Venezuela Triumphed in Latin America

Franky Swing was born in Caracas-Venezuela, on December 3, from a humble family, as the main musical reference we will find his older brother, from a very young age his interest in singing was noted, he sang whenever he could, his father encouraged him to do it in family gatherings performing very naturally. During his childhood he belonged to the choir and the marching band at his school, his singing teacher saw great potential in him and advised him to dedicate himself to music.

Franky Swing
Franky Swing

Franky grew up, and could not devote himself to singing academically, because, to support his family, he worked at a nightclub where he only had one day off a week.

One day he had the opportunity to sing in another nightclub, where his brother worked, and it was there that he discovered that what really moved his life was music.

The night witnessed his first musical experiences, and thus, between clubs, events and private parties he was making himself known musically among friends, neighbors and clients; without losing sight of his desires: to soon realize an important musical project.

In 2007, he began as a soloist, a great professional experience that did not transcend beyond personal enrichment, then he became the vocalist of the LYRI-K group with which he was able to make himself known with more projection at a national and international level, and thus embarking on that artistic path that he longed for so much.

Songs such as “GUARAPO Y MELAO”, “LATINOS” and “REGRESA A MI” sounded throughout the national territory, the latter achieving position No. 8 in the record report on the country’s radio stations. LYRI-K was a good professional experience that Franky Swing had, because with it he not only gained great national exposure, but also managed to cross borders showing his talent in countries like Ecuador.

Additionally, with LYRI-K he participated in national events of great impact such as the Solid Fest (2011) and social concerts, being the image of the SENOSALUD FOUNDATION.

Franky Swing in concert
Franky Swing in concert

At an academic level, Franky attended speech workshops to acquire more knowledge about this exciting world, managing to participate in radio commercials for different brands and companies.

After his departure from LYRI K, FRANKY SWING undertakes a new solo project and comes with a romantic song entitled “NADA SIN TI”, lyrics and music by Ramón Montes, arrangements by Leo Gonzalez and Lino Paz, an excellent single to conquer the heart of the international public with his warm voice, covered in ballads and merengue.

Franky Swing continues to reap successes now with new songs that have crossed borders, currently in Mexico presenting songs like “Mi vecina me tiene loco”, “Olvidarme de ti” this particular single was recorded in Mexico and Venezuela, by the hand of Lois and Blackie and the Cuban Yumar Bonachea, can be enjoyed in two versions: Batucada and Electronic Merengue; also the single “Quiero”, authored by Francisco Figuera produced in Electronic Merengue.

Franky Swing - Photo
Franky Swing – Photo

The single “Llorando Fue” recorded in Venezuela, in the same Electronic Merengue vein as the album “Mira como es“, reaching important positions in the top 45 of Argentina called Elegidos 45.

In 2015, a new single titled “Una y Otra Vez” recorded in Venezuela, by Jhosir Córdoba, brings freshness in tropical Merengue with an urban touch, the lyrics and music are by Venezuelan Ottoniel Poveda.

Promoted in all social networks with a lot of focus on Latin America, particularly in Mexico City and in the important media in the country to infect everyone with his dance music.

Franky also took on the task of participating in humanitarian social works such as HELP IS, THE NIGHT OF DREAMS INFINITE LOVE AND I LEND YOU MY VOICE.

On the other hand, the recognitions received by FANTASIA TV THE PROGRAM, FINALLY THE END, HAYEK INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN MERIT AWARDS, RECOGNITION AS A SINGER BY THE OAXAQUE BOARD OF POPULAR CULTURE A.C., THANKS IN THE EL LAVADIARIO PROGRAM, RECOGNITION BY THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MEXICAN ANNOUNCER C , AWARDED WITH THE RAY TICO PRIZE OF THE COSTA RICAN COMMUNITY B. AWARDED AT THE INMORTAL AWARDS AS A TROPICAL MUSIC SINGER Already living in Mexico in 2017, he joins the group “INTERSALSA ORQUESTA“, where he had the opportunity to record several singles in which is the promotional “DILE A ELLA“, this theme was written by the Venezuelan Wilmer Hernández and musical arrangement by the Venezuelan Taylor Aranguren.

Franky Swing
Franky Swing

Among the musical themes we can highlight “TU NO SABES QUERER”, “ADIOS AMOR” a version of Mr. Cristian Nodal adapted to the salsa genre, collaborations in feautiring in the “GIGANTES DE LA CUMBIA” project with the song “UN SUEÑO” original theme of the group “LOS ANGELES DE CHARLY” duet with the singer “JUAN SOLO” the singles where Franky has been involved with his voice have been happy songs that have made the whole world enjoy, Franky Swing with his charisma, flavor and excellent voice gives him that authentic touch to each song he has recorded.

Franky Swing in 2018, presented us with his new single entitled “DAME UNA OPORTUNIDAD”, lyrics and music by Francisco Figuera and arrangements by Mauricio Jiménez, with the participation of Dante Vargas on trumpet, this song came to stay in the salsa genre and thus continue giving rumba joy and flavor to the international public.

All of us at some point in our lives have made mistakes, which perhaps have hurt someone’s feelings, it can be your partner, a friend, or in any life situation where the beings we appreciate are involved, and at Recognizing that we have failed, we seek forgiveness and try to correct the mistake, doing everything possible to put ourselves in the other person’s place and feel their pain.

Brief synopsis of the single “DAME UNA OPORTUNIDAD” Currently, Franky Swing follows the path of this tropical genre and this time comes with the theme “SABOR A NADA” a very interesting proposal, this arrangement was made in Venezuela by the hand of Wuilmer Herrera , where a fresh concept was shaped to continue giving good music to the international public, it should be noted that the lyrics and music of this single go hand in hand with the Venezuelan composer Jhon Semeco.

Franky Swing
Franky Swing

Sabor a Nada is the name of Franky Swing’s new single, this single is about those loves that are not consummated, where there are promises that are not kept, loves that are adrift and that fail to have a story, love without color without flavor, that’s what this great single by the great Venezuelan singer Franky Swing is about, who little by little continues to bring joy to Latin America.

If you want to know more about Franky Swing, I invite you to follow him on all his social networks Contacts: Frank Figuera:+52 155-6444-2153 / 55-7410-5180

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/frankyswing

Videoclip https://youtu.be/M7B2wJ4fKIo

Video lyrics https://youtu.be/ltee6FSIQYg

Plataformas digitales: Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4tvKmZc3DNOLW6bcOwFgFc

Sabor a nada iTunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/sabor-a-nada-single/1449554732

Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/en/artist/14789867

G o o g l e p l a y: h t t p s : / / p l a y . g oo g l e . c o m / s t o r e / m u s i c / a l b u m /

Franky_Swing_Mira_Como_Es?id=Bw2svrdawij6iyvk3grloe3eqc4

Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/mx/album/mira-como-es/1386202738

Twitter: @franky_swing

Instagram: @FRANKY_SWING

Fan page Facebook: Franky Swing

Youtube: Franky_swing

Rebernation: Franky Swing

WebSite: www.frankyswing.com

Webwix: http://frankyswing362.wix.com/frankyswing1

Email: [email protected]

Anya Katsevman: “You have the dream, I have the tools”

USA - New York - New York

When we refer to Anya Katsevman, the first word that comes to mind is: passion! And that is the only way we could explain that a woman has so much strength, dedication and dedication in different facets of her life.

Anya Katsevman is not only a dancer and choreographer, but also a motivational coach and dream builder. In addition, it has its own line of dance dresses and costumes. An unstoppable woman!

Anya Katsevman by Franklin Liranzo
Anya Katsevman Courtesy of Franklin Liranzo

A native of Kiev, Ukraine, Anya and her family immigrated to the United States when she was 8 years old. She is the younger sister of award-winning Latin dancer Eugene Katsevman. She lives in New York.

She also holds numerous titles in salsa. Among them, she is a two-time World Champion as well as the San Francisco International Salsa Congress and New York Salsa Congress Champion.

Anya Katsevman dancing
Anya Katsevman dancing

Anya Katsevman is a maker of champions

This is precisely the distinctive mark of Anya Katsevman , that ability to make each dancer, each artist, each dreamer discover in himself his potential to succeed, his style and make the most of his abilities.

She believes that “the art of dance requires much physical ability, exposure and practice. The art of dance is also developing your own voice and getting to know the artist behind the athlete that makes the dancer”

A wonderful career

“Queen of Salsa” Anya Katsevman is a two-time World Salsa Champion, coach and choreographer to more than a dozen world champions, noted costume designer, respected salsa congress circuit judge and advocate for international Latin dance who has transformed the sport during her more than 25-year career.

Anya Katsevman
Anya Katsevman

Renowned for her unique coaching methods, Anya’s style blends multiple cultures and dance forms: her eastern European upbringing and the appreciation for Latin dance culture that she developed in the United States; and her ballroom and salsa backgrounds. She demands rigor, discipline and excellence, and uses her understanding of anatomy, physiology and movement while encouraging freedom of expression to turn her students into the top dancers in the world.

Anya trains and choreographs for “Dancing with the Stars Costa Rica” principal dancer Lucia Jimenez (2020 World Bachata, Chacha and Salsa Champion), “America’s Got Talent” stars Harold Rancano and Regan Hirose (9-time World Bachata Champions), the Huracan Dance Company (2019 World Team Salsa Champions), the stars of Quebec’s 
Revolucion Adriano Leropoli and Samantha Scali (2017 World Salsa Champions), principal dancers in Carmen to Havana and Back Isabelle Freiberger and Hunter Houde and the USA World Games Olympic salsa team.

Always successful and sharing her knowledge

As a competitor and performer, Anya has won more than 20 world titles including the 2009 and 2010 Salsa World Championships. She is also the 2008 North American Salsa Champion, a two-time San Francisco Open Salsa Champion, two-time New York Congress Salsa Champion, Puerto Rico Open Salsa Champion and La Classique Du Quebec Champion. Anya has starred in touring shows “Burn the Floor ” on Broadway and ABC’s “Dancing with the Stars, in addition to numerous other television productions, stage shows, movies, and showcases in the U.S. She has performed with El Gran Combo, Gilberto Santa Rosa and “The Mambo King” Eddie Torres, and for President Barack Obama.

Anya Katsevman - dancers
Anya Katsevman – dancers

Anya is an ambassador for salsa, helping to expand its popularity worldwide. She believes connection is one of the most important aspects of the human experience, and dance is the best medium to explore how we connect with each other and ourselves. Anya has expanded her dance instruction to include GoDeeper, which she co-founded in 2019 to provide monthly movement classes, individual coaching sessions, and group workshops to promote professional growth and self discovery.

Meet this talented woman

International Salsa Magazine had the pleasure of interviewing Anya recently and invites you to learn a little more about this magnificent artist.

International Salsa Magazine (ISM): How did you discover your passion for Latin Dance?

Anya Katsevman (AK): My brother is a professional ballroom dancer

I started to dance ballroom in 1995 following his footsteps  I competed in the international Latin category world wide  in 2007 I was teaching in a dance studio in Manhattan and they did a lot of salsa  that’s where I was introduced to social dancing  I fell in love with the idea that dance is accessible to all people and doesn’t have to be competitive  from there my love for salsa turned in to a career choice  I decided to study Latin social dance and became a two time world salsa champion  for me it was a passion to spread the beauty of dance through teaching as much as performing that did the trick.

ISM: Have you had any obstacle in your professional life? How could you overcome them?

AK: I think when your career is long enough you will probably have many obstacles to overcome  and your passion for your craft and the reason you do it is usually stronger than the obstacle in front of you that gives you the drive to overcome it  it is hard to narrow specifics down because I’ve had so many  my competitive dance partner lived 3000 miles away from me when we won the worlds in 2010 and I just made the commitment to work hard and travel pick up the slack where needed and get the job done regardless I think that was the formula in every struggle.

ISM: What is the achievement that has made you most proud?

AK: I am most proud of all of my students accomplishments  I am of course extremely proud and honored to be a world champion but for me the pleasure of having developed other world champion’s especially those who started learning from me from scratch makes me extremely proud beyond all measures I am also very proud of how individual and independent all of my students are  the variety and diversity of their dancing makes me really happy.

ISM: In the path of entrepreneurship, how did you manage to find the strategy to grow your business? What are the skills you consider an entrepreneur must have to achieve success?

AK: Honestly I believe success comes from genuine passion and desire  it is easy for us to study a successful person after the fact and say which moves appeared strategic but I believe who ever is on their way working toward that goal should do it because they are passionate about each step not because of the end result  my business grows because I am committed to my craft and doing it at my best capacity.

I am genuinely passionate about my dance quality  my students growth and the subjects I am teaching  I study the Industry I watch for what’s missing I ask what contribution would be of most value this doesn’t feel like hard work to me  it is my passion my genuine interest and the rest flows  when I feel I am doing something strategic or because it’s good for my brand or etc it doesn’t flow the same way feels forced and isn’t as successful so I try to only go with my own flow current interest and most passionate desires.

ISM: Could you give us some advice to maintain discipline, even in complex situations?

AK: Absolutely  discipline is hard for anyone when it feels needed and forced so I always try to flip the mindset  if I have to do something I’m bored of or am avoiding because it’s hard or tedious I always find something to be excited about instead whether it is dreaming of what the task will do for me  or adding something Sensory I enjoy to the task like my favorite sounds smells or visuals or including a friend in the process.

If you focus on what you do like about it it’s much easier to do it. Also discipline is really only hard at first pretty quickly it becomes a habit so if you put more disciplined things in to practice it will all feel like a habitual part of your day and you’ll start to enjoy it and feeling accomplished.

ISM: What would you say to all those young dancers who want to achieve a dream?

AK: They do come true!!!!!

Dream more!!!! Everything is possible  want it bad enough to work for it but don’t be afraid to dream those wild dreams if it wasn’t possible you wouldn’t have had the dream in the first place.

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International Salsa Magazine (ISM) is a monthly publication about Salsa activities around the world, that has been publishing since 2007. It is a world network of volunteers coordinated by ISM Magazine. We are working to strengthen all the events by working together.