I joined MDN Latin Dance Studio a little over 2 years ago, and in that short amount of time, I have learned so much about the foundations of salsa dancing on 2. I still remember my first day, never a dance class in my life, taking my position on the front line of the group class. I was so intimidated but once Marcus Nieves (instructor extraordinaire) took the floor, he quickly relieved everyone's tension as he broke down the basic step (1-2-3, 5-6-7 Short, long, in place)! I've frequented other schools, and in my opinion, while many of the instructors out there may be amazing dancers, they lack in their ability to break down the shines and partner work. There are a lot of dancers out there, but teaching requires a whole different set of skills. Marcus was previously an Eddie Torres dancer, who as many may know, really pioneered the salsa on 2 movement. As a result, Marcus is one of the few certified instructors of the Eddie Torres technique. Classes require no contracts, no registration fees, and you can pay as you go. You can even save some money by paying the month in advance. All classes are 1.5 hours with a 5 minute break and meet 3x a week. There are different levels (beginner, advanced beginner, and intermediate). The classes are high energy and fun. Don't come dressed to impress... TRUST ME, you will SWEAT. I have lost 20 pounds in 2 years since I've joined the studio! The group classes can get somewhat large, so for those who find themselves a little lost or want some further polishing, private classes can be arranged with either Marcus or his dance partner Diana Osorio (also amazing!). Marcus has affiliated himself with Euro Lounge, and promotes there on Tuesdays (Mambo-Land) and usually teaches a turn pattern class for only $5. There are performances there every week! Also, there are monthly socials in Harrison NJ and the occasional pracitce party at the studio. He strongly encourages his students to get out there and dance! Nothing makes him more proud than one of his students RIPPING it on the dance floor. He doesn't hold back anything, watch him carefully, he'll teach some of his routine moves in class. Marcus is passionate about what he does, and he wants you to be equally as passionate about it. He will push you to become your absolute best. read more

Recently someone came up to me and said, " I really like the way you dance." I thought, really? you mean ME?! lol The very first thought in my head was, "THANKS MARCUS"!! For years I was on the sidelines admiring others and doing my little two step salsa moves that I learned from my mami, hey it got me through the family parties. Salsa On2, as taught at MDN Latin Dance Studio is definitely not your "mami's salsa". At first, I thought I would just learn a few turns because really, how much more is there? Boy was I wrong! I remember at my first class thinking, he wants me to count? umm.. count what?! Turns out counting the music was more important than any shine or turn I would soon learn. Then I thought, they never taught me that at the other studio I went to. That's the depth and thoroughness of Marcus' teaching style. He gives you a music theory class and dance lesson combined. Like he says, if you don't understand the music, you're really not dancing, you're just moving your feet. You quickly realize there is a method to his madness because soon he has you shining on the dance floor. Learning how to dance salsa at MDN has been one of the most fun, challenging, and cardio endurance experiences I have ever had. Marcus creates a comfortable environment for people of all levels to learn how to dance salsa on2 and have a great time in the process. Trust me, when you see folks clapping after the first class you realize, you will get hooked!! As an instructor Marcus has an energy that is contagious and when he's in the salsa zone, he brings you along for the ride. Lots of people can dance but not everyone can "TEACH"; luckily Marcus has been gifted with the ability to do BOTH. I consider myself lucky that he sees in me more than I see in myself and continues to challenge me to become a better dancer with each and every class. THANKS MAESTRO! MDN Latin Dance Studio offers the best salsa on2 experience in NJ by first class instructors. You're not bound by contracts, which is awesome, and you'll surprise yourself when you realize how much you have learned in such a short amount of time. MDN Latin Dance Studio is the only place to be for Salsa On2 instruction in NJ, so I'll see you in class. PRACTICE.... :-) read more

Bottom line up front - there is no better Latin Dance Studio that even comes close to MDN Latin Dance Studio in the entire state of New Jersey - and Marcus Nieves and Diana Osorio are extraordinary people and they are magnificent instructors. MDN Latin Dance Studio is located next to Rte-21 on Main Street in Belleville, NJ. Classes are top notch at only $15 a class - you will not find better instruction for that same price. I have been to every salsa dance studio in Northern and Central NJ, and they don't even come close. Trust me. Marcus is the only "Eddie Torres" certified NJ instructor! That alone says it all. Diana is amazing and is a complete natural on the dance floor and is an even better at teaching the ladies of the studio what they should be doing. There is no instructor in this entire area except for the Mambo King himself that can match Marcus' footwork skills and creative partnerwork combinations. His passion for teaching and dedication to his students supersedes all expectations - you will be challenged every step of the way - regardless of your skill level. They are both completely dedicated to making their students the best that they can be. I have been going for just over one year and they have both pushed me to become so much better in that short time period. Be ready for a challenge - but they both make salsa fun and easy to learn. It will change your life - for the better - and it is also a great work out. Dress comfortably and see you at MDN Latin Dance Studio - the best studio in the entire state of NJ! read more

MDN Latin Studio located in Belleville, NJ offers on2 Mambo classes taught by Marcus Nieves for beginner, advanced beginner and intermediate levels. Marcus has created a very well structured class with enough intensity to get everyone dancing and enjoying themselves, while learning proper technique, partner work, timing and shines. His passion for teaching and dedication to his students supersedes all expectations. Marcus' passion is to share his talents with new students and audiences throughout New Jersey. He has a gift for teaching with a high level of precision and technical ability along with an incredible ability to perform. He holds the only Eddie Torres On2 Certification in New Jersey. If you are definately looking for a place to actually learn On2 Mambo this is the place to come to in New Jersey. You will not need a dance partner, since the classes are designed to "rotate" partners and he gives you enough time to practice with everyone. He breaks down all the steps and will make you go over every step until you can completely perform it. Very proffessional, fun & exciting. It is the best place to come and learn in New Jersey. read more

MDN Dance studio is a place that I have been recommending throughout my 8 year journey to understand Salsa and Dancing on 2. It is ideal for all ages and skill sets as there are different challenges to learning how to dance for all. If you're a person who is interested in just understanding the movement and rhythms then this is for you. If you're a person wanting to dance with your significant other or meet new people socially. This is for you. If you're looking to perform, dance at the highest level of Salsa. This is for you! If you're a person wanting great cardio, energy, fun and overall joy. This is for you. The studio space is vast and features an environment that is friendly and most of all comfortable. Take it from a person that knew nothing. The energy and excitement created by Marcus is unmatched and it is exhibited by the feedback you hear from all the fellow students. I am currently a student and will continue to enhance my skills here. I highly recommend it ... read more

One of the best decisions I have made to date in my life...A friend of mine who goes To MDN who has been dancing for close to 20 years highly recommended Marcus & Dianna. I'm so happy I chose the best in the business for my salsa journey. Its not just about salsa you become part of a new family. I can honestly say I have created amazing new friendships with some truly amazing people. So if you want to enrich your life immeasurably with sense of wonder discovery, and an amazing challenge with equally immeasurable rewards I highly recommend the journey of salsa. And if you decide to embark on that journey make sure you chose wisely on who will guide you on the amazing adventure. For me It was MDN and couldn't be more happy with that decision, the results and the journey that continues on to this day as a write this and will be for the rest of my life... read more

I've tried most of the dance studios in the NY/NJ area and Marcus' studio is, for me, the best for "on 2" salsa. o Marcus and his partner Diana are both excellent teachers, as well as award winning dancers o Marcus makes it easy to advance at your own pace. He continually comes up with innovative choreographies and both Marcus and Diana can analyze your dancing and tell you exactly how to improve o The studio consistently attracts a really good crowd of friendly people at all skill levels o The studio has an excellent floor and is bright, spacious, and clean o The location is convenient and safe o Extremely professionally run. Definitely the place to start or continue learning and practicing. read more

MDN Latin Dance Studio is the best place to learn salsa in NJ, hands down. Besides being conveniently located by Rt. 21, 3 and 7 there is also plenty of parking. At this studio not only have i learned how to dance but I have also made friends that I now consider family. The instructors Marcus and Diana really have their students' best interest at heart and it is a treat to learn from them. Marcus pushes his students to be the very best they can so be prepared to work. You will not be disappointed by this experience. This place will absolutely change your life, I guarantee it. read more

This is by far the best studio for salsa instruction in NJ. He is a competent instructor whose years of experience as an Eddie Torres dancer set him apart from the rest. He offers a clear curriculum for the beginning dancer with a focus on timing. The instructor uses a sequential set of steps progress in the level of difficulty as the dancer advances. He employs rigor during the class and doesn't accept mediocrity. If you are looking for a challenge that will make you different from the rest, this is the place for you. read more

Simply the Best teacher!!!! The best instructor in the tri-state area. Not only can he teach with excellence , but also has a perfectly structure system of teaching that's fun, exciting , burn calories and learn how to dance Salsa like you've never dance before. The environment and dance floor is beautifully design and the music makes you move along with the best instruction around town, it doesn't get better. Me and my entire family go and dance. Highly recommended!!!! Don't even think, just go!!!!!!!! read more

I always wanted to learn how to dance salsa but never found any one with patience enough to teach me. Then I found MDN Latin Dance Studio and two years later I am addicted. I have learned so much and continue to learn. I have dropped 30lbs since I started I have built up my confidence and stamina. Its the highlight of my day when I have salsa class. The instructors are patient and really great at teaching a former non dancer like me and making me into a Salsero!!!!! Pedro Roman read more

Marcus Nieves and the entire MDM staff provides a professional and friendly atmosphere that allows from the least experienced to the most advanced dancer to learn at their own pace. Marcus energy and approach allow you to remain relaxed, placing an emphasis on your technique with different class levels that adapt to your learning curve. If you'd like a fun and comfortable setting, with a fun diverse crowd to learn to dance salsa on2, I highly recommend give MDM a try. read more

The MDN experience is beyond anything I ever imagined! Eight years ago I went in to learn how to dance Salsa On2 and left with a lifelong love and appreciation for salsa! At the MDN Latin Dance Studio you get the opportunity to develop advanced salsa dance techniques, exercise with excitement, and connect with countless people! The knowledge and passion that Marcus brings to the salsa world is both motivating and invigorating! read more

I have no hesitation in saying that MDN is the BEST Latin Dance Studio in the tri-state! Its not even close. If there's any fault that I could find is that there's only 1! Marcus, Diana, and the entire team are very professional, personable, and create an enviroment that's awesome for dancers of all levels. From the true novice to the true professional and everybody in between, just try them. You won't be sorry! Ric R. read more

Mdn is definetly the best studio in NJ! Once you begin dancing at mdn there is no turning back you will immediatly fall in love with the studio and Marcus just as i did. I have been dancing at Mdn since I was about 8 years old and it has become like a second home. Marcus really does lighten up the room and motivates you to do your very best which is something really great. I guarantee its a memorable fun experience read more

This is by far the best Dance studio I have been to and I have attended classes in both New York and New Jersey. The level of instruction, energy, consistency and professionalism is unparalleled. The studio space is one of the largest and extremely well kept. Parking lot is very convenient. The welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to walk in as a beginner and impossible to leave once you are hooked! read more

Oh well, what can I say about the experience? So it was amazing meeting Marcus and his strong passion of teaching . Classes are blessed and amazed because of the energy of God. If you're a looking for something special, that's the place. Stress. relieve. burn whatever you need,dance and be yourself again. I rallly recommend MDN latin dance studio read more

Going to MDN is an amazing experience. It is exciting to learn something new every class. I always get a friendly welcome and met so many wonderful people. The instructor genuinely cares about his students' success and will support their efforts. If you want to learn an incredible new skill, MDN is the place to go. read more

Marcus is one of the best especially for learning the fundamentals. His classes are very structured and progressive. The thing that I like best is the fact that he takes a few classes to review moves so that you know it. A lot of other schools teach something new every class which makes that a 1 shot wonder. read more