TESTIMONIALS

"In December 2008 suffering from cabin fever in the depths of the rare Vancouver snow storms  I was desperately looking for an exercise class and I remembered Claudine and the Corazon dancers performing at the Greek Food Festival a few years earlier.  Their energy and joy jumped off the stage and made a lasting impression on me. I looked you up online and registered for your Riley Park class and was quickly immersed in the exuberant energy of Latin Funk. I was impressed that within 10 minutes of the first class you had our beginner group dancing up a storm."
Kiki - Student

"Hi, Gustavo I saw your Kits Showboat performance last night. You were fabulous! The tempo, choreography and dance were just perfect. What a lot of practice you must have done to make it look so natural, yet so professional. Everyone enjoyed it!"
Terry Student - July 2009

"Hello Gustavo, with globalization and digital satellite TV we now enjoy watching your training dance programs every weekend in North Russia, Arkhangelsk (near North Pole and White Sea Coast) I am so thankful for being able to see you teach! I practice pilates in sport club twice per week and then do your charming weekend TV program. Best wishes, good luck and big fortune for you and your group!"
Elena Martins - Jan 2009

"Hello Gustavo, This morning I had a pinched nerve and turned on the television, expecting to do some tai chi to help loosen it up. I saw your program instead and I am so thankful! I have been going to Cuba for years and love to do as many dance classes as possible...I've not seen anything like it here, until I saw your show. I did the class and I've ordered your DVD already...didn't even read the description! Are you ever in Toronto? If so, I'd love to come to one of your classes. Thanks again, I'm feeling great!"
Gina Lamarino - Toronto June 2008

"I have been attending Latin Funk Level 1 classes weekly for 9 months now and enjoy them tremendously. At 57 and unfit, the class was very challenging for the first few months. I had never danced before and have a terrible sense of rhythm but perservered because Gustavo made it so much fun. I have been overweight most of my life and have recently lost 50 pounds. The dance class helps me keep the weight off and has improved my flexibility and stamina and mood! All the sweat and chagrine is worth it!"
Terry Clark, Vancouver, B.C. Dec 2007

"Hi Gustavo, I am what you might call middle-aged and have worked out all my life, either taking dance classes or aerobic classes. In the last few years I was finding that high impact aerobics was causing back spasms, so I began to work out at the gym with a combo of cardio equipment and weights. After a while, this became boring. About a year ago a friend encouraged me to try your class, This was exactly what I needed: I was working out and having fun, just the way I used to with high impact aerobics, but without the back pain. I look forward to your 2 classes every week and feel that I am more fit than I have been in the last few years. Your exercise program is suitable for anyone at any age. There is an elderly woman in one of your classes, and she may not move as fast or gracefully as she used to, but at least she is still moving and having fun. Staying in shape is a life-long commitment and you just need to find the exercise that's right for you. Thank you so much!"
Linda - Student Dec 2007

"Hi Gustavo, I am in Chile now and having the time of my life and a very well deserved rest. I just wanted to send you a note to really congratulate you on the wonderful job you do with your classes. I say this after taking various Latin classes since I left, I took some in Toronto and here in Chile and really, your´s are the best ! Not that I didn´t know this before but I can now tell everyone how lucky we are to have you as an Instructor in Vancouver! You really are the best Gustavo! Cuidate y nos vemos en Marzo a mi regreso."
Fanny Astete - Student from Richmond Nov 2007

"Latin Funk is a liberating experience. It is a sense of freedom and very stimulating for your mental health. It is so much fun and I have met many new friends through these classes. Gustavo is something else! His creativity and originality in mixing many different dance styles together is fantastic! His professional dance background and amazing teaching skills set him way apart from the rest of the instructors I have seen. His classes are directed to anyone, no matter race or age! He radiates his energy and encourages his students, making them feel like they really can learn to dance. Gustavo is funny and he genuinely cares for his students."
Maria - Richmond/Vancouver Student and Corazon Dancer – 2007

"I discovered Gustavo's classes by accident: I was expecting a couples class, only to find a room mostly of women dancing as if they were born doing so. My wife urged me to give it a try, and although I felt intimidated and skeptical, within minutes I was hooked by Gustavo's contagious enthusiasm. Gustavo is a wonderful instructor; each lesson is an intense combination of new ideas, technique, and practice, but is balanced by his terrific sense of humour and encouragement. I'm a relatively slow learner in dance (like a lot of guys, I played many sports as a kid but never took dance), and it's wonderful to be in a class that feels friendly and positive regardless of your ability; Gustavo always stresses how well you're doing, especially when he pushes your abilities, and never lets you get discouraged. I had tried a few Latin dance lessons before with various instructors, but could never get a feel for the movements; I had felt awkward and uncomfortable. Gustavo's lessons have taught me proper fundamentals for many dance styles, all while having a great time."
Joel - Student - March 2007

"The music, the dance, the steps, the exercise - all of which puts a smile on my face. I appreciate your ability to teach with such flare and enthusiam each week! Thank-you for brightening my world. I just keep trying to be better."
Roma - Student - Jan 2007

"Hi Gustavo, You probably don't remember me, but I took one of your classes a while ago and have actually missed it since I've been too busy. Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that I hope your knee recovers quickly. It's obvious you love what you are doing, and it's unfortunate you have to be away from it. Not to mention all the joy your classes bring to others. If my enjoyment of the class is any indication, you are being missed by many people. Get well soon."
Sincerely, Endie Tompkins - May 2007

"How can I thank you enough Gustavo for the wonderful experience of dancing in your classes! You are so amazing, so talented! You are a unique dancer, charismatic and inspiring! I feel so lucky I danced in your classes for a year. Each class was fun and challenging. I hope you will continue the wonderful things u are doing. I wish you success and that all your goals and dreams will come true! Hugs!"
Zoe - Student who had to move away - Sept 2006

"Gustavo, your passion shows through in every class! Thank-you so much for making Vancouver your home and giving me and all of your students the opportunity to enjoy your talent and be able to "dance from the heart" with you!" 
Julie - Richmond Student - June 2006

"Gustavo! WOW! A whole year of your Latin Funk Classes. It sure has been fun! Thank-you very much. Your classes are always well prepared- your instruction - TOP NOTCH! I am looking forward to next year!"
Mary Jane M. - Student - Vancouver BC

"I have had the privilege of attending Gustavo's Latin Funk classes and they have catalyzed one of the most rewarding growth experiences I can remember. Gustavo's passion for dance easily coaxes me through the most rigorous cardio workout. By interweaving dance technique and fitness with anatomy, breath work, balance, rhythm and music, I am reintroduced to myself. Gustavo IS grace. I can think of few times that I have been moved to write a testimonial."
Zannah S - Student- Vancouver, BC

"Latin Funk Is a natural High! The classes are just so much fun! Gustavo is cheerful in every class while always encouraging his students with his fun, high energy dancing!"
Kita M. - Student and Dancer Vancouver BC

"Latin moves set to the hypnotic Latin beat is the ultimate workout. The Latin music is happy and energizing, and Gustavo teaches us enough of a sampling of different dances that we can immediately transfer to the dance floor at the local Latin clubs. Muy Caliente!"
Linda Folster Schaffner - Latin Funk Class - West Vancouver, BC

"Latin Funk is fun, energetic and a great workout! I love to dance and thought this would be a great way to get exercise and do something that I loved at the same time. Gustavo has unbelievable energy and has great motivating power. He makes you believe that anyone can be a great dancer!"
Denise – Long time student – Vancouver, BC

"Gustavo's Latin Funk classes help revive my soul, free my spirit, while physically challenging my body." Dance is a sensation of freedom and joy that frees my imagination and restores balance to the body and mind. Thank you for restoring a missing link in my life."
Arlene Decaire B.Sc. R.K., A.C.E. Occupational Health Consultant
Long time student of Latin Funk - Vancouver, BC

"Gustavo found the dancer in me! After years of doing aerobic classes of many types I found Latin Funk, which is a great cardio workout! The class leaves me invigorated and happy. The music is terrific! Gustavo's teaching style is perfect! All served up with a cheeky grin! It is the best! Come and join us!"
Jan Mackey - Latin Funk student - West Vancouver, BC

"Gustavo is a great instructor who teaches everything from proper technique and correct positioning to sexy Latin moves. Great for couples or individuals. It's a fun class and a great workout, which gets you pumped to hit the Latin Clubs! I really enjoyed it and learned a lot of new moves while having fun!"
Anna Maria - Student – Vancouver, BC

"One of the most fast-paced and innovative classes I've ever taken! Not to mention fun! A great way to get in shape AND improve your dance skills! Awesome!"
Wendy – Long time student – Vancouver, BC

"I love your classes! They have helped me to stay in shape and motivated. Also, it’s nice to hear good, high energy Latin music!"
Sandra – Long time student – Vancouver, BC

"I love the energy that this dance represents! Latin Funk is a dance that would not only bring dance knowledge to Canada, but also educate different dancers about the possibility of communicating through dance."
Teresa – Calgary, Alberta

"This is the only class I take to get in shape, as I am tired of aerobics. I have lost almost 20 pounds!"
Catherine – Student - Vancouver, BC

"I am not one for doing aerobics classes, but after I tried Latin Funk it was the best class I ever enjoyed. Gustavo's enthusiasm, dancing abilities, and teaching skills made the class enjoyable, fun and an incredible work out."
Rubina – Vancouver, BC

"These classes are totally awesome, an excellent workout, bundles of fun, great instruction, fun choreography! I can’t say enough! Just from doing these classes, whenever I go dancing, I find myself doing the funky moves we learn in class and I have a blast!"
Felicia –Vancouver, BC

"Gustavo has come to my school for many years to teach Latin dance to my grade 9 Spanish classes. He has an excellent rapport with youth, knows how to talk to and motivate them. His talent, style, energy and music are irresistible. Even the 14 year old boys who were reluctant and uncomfortable at the idea of Latin dancing couldn't stop dancing. Dancing is an integral part of Latin culture and Gustavo's class enriched my students' Spanish learning experience. They had fun learning something completely foreign to them. Don't miss out on this!"
Anju Dec 2009

"Hi, Gustavo I saw your Kits Showboat performance last night. You were fabulous! The tempo, choreography and dance were just perfect. What a lot of practice you must have done to make it look so natural, yet so professional. Everyone enjoyed it!"
Terry Student July 2009

"Hello Gustavo, with globalization and digital satellite TV we now enjoy watching your training dance programs every weekend in North Russia, Arkhangelsk (near North Pole and White Sea Coast) I am so thankful for being able to see you teach! I practice pilates in sport club twice per week and then do your charming weekend TV program. Best wishes, good luck and big fortune for you and your group!"
Elena Martins - Jan 2009

"Hello Gustavo, This morning I had a pinched nerve and turned on the television, expecting to do some tai chi to help loosen it up. I saw your program instead and I am so thankful! I have been going to Cuba for years and love to do as many dance classes as possible...I've not seen anything like it here, until I saw your show. I did the class and I've ordered your DVD already...didn't even read the description! Are you ever in Toronto? If so, I'd love to come to one of your classes. Thanks again, I'm feeling great!"
Gina Lamarino - Toronto June 2008
"I have been attending Latin Funk Level 1 classes weekly for 9 months now and enjoy them tremendously. At 57 and unfit, the class was very challenging for the first few months. I had never danced before and have a terrible sense of rhythm but perservered because Gustavo made it so much fun. I have been overweight most of my life and have recently lost 50 pounds. The dance class helps me keep the weight off and has improved my flexibility and stamina and mood! All the sweat and chagrine is worth it!"
Terry Clark, Vancouver, B.C. Dec 2007

"Hi Gustavo, I am what you might call middle-aged and have worked out all my life, either taking dance classes or aerobic classes. In the last few years I was finding that high impact aerobics was causing back spasms, so I began to work out at the gym with a combo of cardio equipment and weights. After a while, this became boring. About a year ago a friend encouraged me to try your class, This was exactly what I needed: I was working out and having fun, just the way I used to with high impact aerobics, but without the back pain. I look forward to your 2 classes every week and feel that I am more fit than I have been in the last few years. Your exercise program is suitable for anyone at any age. There is an elderly woman in one of your classes, and she may not move as fast or gracefully as she used to, but at least she is still moving and having fun. Staying in shape is a life-long commitment and you just need to find the exercise that's right for you. Thank you so much!"
Linda - Student Dec 2007

"Hi Gustavo, I am in Chile now and having the time of my life and a very well deserved rest. I just wanted to send you a note to really congratulate you on the wonderful job you do with your classes. I say this after taking various Latin classes since I left, I took some in Toronto and here in Chile and really, your´s are the best ! Not that I didn´t know this before but I can now tell everyone how lucky we are to have you as an Instructor in Vancouver! You really are the best Gustavo! Cuidate y nos vemos en Marzo a mi regreso."
Fanny Astete - Student from Richmond Nov 2007

"Latin Funk is a liberating experience. It is a sense of freedom and very stimulating for your mental health. It is so much fun and I have met many new friends through these classes. Gustavo is something else! His creativity and originality in mixing many different dance styles together is fantastic! His professional dance background and amazing teaching skills set him way apart from the rest of the instructors I have seen. His classes are directed to anyone, no matter race or age! He radiates his energy and encourages his students, making them feel like they really can learn to dance. Gustavo is funny and he genuinely cares for his students."
Maria - Richmond/Vancouver Student and Corazon Dancer - 2007

"I discovered Gustavo's classes by accident: I was expecting a couples class, only to find a room mostly of women dancing as if they were born doing so. My wife urged me to give it a try, and although I felt intimidated and skeptical, within minutes I was hooked by Gustavo's contagious enthusiasm. Gustavo is a wonderful instructor; each lesson is an intense combination of new ideas, technique, and practice, but is balanced by his terrific sense of humour and encouragement. I'm a relatively slow learner in dance (like a lot of guys, I played many sports as a kid but never took dance), and it's wonderful to be in a class that feels friendly and positive regardless of your ability; Gustavo always stresses how well you're doing, especially when he pushes your abilities, and never lets you get discouraged. I had tried a few Latin dance lessons before with various instructors, but could never get a feel for the movements; I had felt awkward and uncomfortable. Gustavo's lessons have taught me proper fundamentals for many dance styles, all while having a great time."
Joel - Student - March 2007

"The music, the dance, the steps, the exercise - all of which puts a smile on my face. I appreciate your ability to teach with such flare and enthusiam each week! Thank-you for brightening my world. I just keep trying to be better."
Roma - Student - Jan 2007

"Hi Gustavo, You probably don't remember me, but I took one of your classes a while ago and have actually missed it since I've been too busy. Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that I hope your knee recovers quickly. It's obvious you love what you are doing, and it's unfortunate you have to be away from it. Not to mention all the joy your classes bring to others. If my enjoyment of the class is any indication, you are being missed by many people. Get well soon."
Sincerely, Endie Tompkins - May 2007

"How can I thank you enough Gustavo for the wonderful experience of dancing in your classes! You are so amazing, so talented! You are a unique dancer, charismatic and inspiring! I feel so lucky I danced in your classes for a year. Each class was fun and challenging. I hope you will continue the wonderful things u are doing. I wish you success and that all your goals and dreams will come true! Hugs!"
Zoe - Student who had to move away - Sept 2006

"Gustavo, your passion shows through in every class! Thank-you so much for making Vancouver your home and giving me and all of your students the opportunity to enjoy your talent and be able to "dance from the heart" with you!" 
Julie - Richmond Student - June 2006

"Gustavo! WOW! A whole year of your Latin Funk Classes. It sure has been fun! Thank-you very much. Your classes are always well prepared- your instruction - TOP NOTCH! I am looking forward to next year!"
Mary Jane M. - Student - Vancouver BC

"I have had the privilege of attending Gustavo's Latin Funk classes and they have catalyzed one of the most rewarding growth experiences I can remember. Gustavo's passion for dance easily coaxes me through the most rigorous cardio workout. By interweaving dance technique and fitness with anatomy, breath work, balance, rhythm and music, I am reintroduced to myself. Gustavo IS grace. I can think of few times that I have been moved to write a testimonial."
Zannah S - Student- Vancouver, BC

"Latin Funk Is a natural High! The classes are just so much fun! Gustavo is cheerful in every class while always encouraging his students with his fun, high energy dancing!"
Kita M. - Student and Dancer Vancouver BC

"Latin moves set to the hypnotic Latin beat is the ultimate workout. The Latin music is happy and energizing, and Gustavo teaches us enough of a sampling of different dances that we can immediately transfer to the dance floor at the local Latin clubs. Muy Caliente!"
Linda Folster Schaffner - Latin Funk Class - West Vancouver, BC

"Latin Funk is fun, energetic and a great workout! I love to dance and thought this would be a great way to get exercise and do something that I loved at the same time. Gustavo has unbelievable energy and has great motivating power. He makes you believe that anyone can be a great dancer!"
Denise – Long time student – Vancouver, BC

"Gustavo's Latin Funk classes help revive my soul, free my spirit, while physically challenging my body." Dance is a sensation of freedom and joy that frees my imagination and restores balance to the body and mind. Thank you for restoring a missing link in my life."
Arlene Decaire B.Sc. R.K., A.C.E. Occupational Health Consultant
Long time student of Latin Funk - Vancouver, BC

"Gustavo found the dancer in me! After years of doing aerobic classes of many types I found Latin Funk, which is a great cardio workout! The class leaves me invigorated and happy. The music is terrific! Gustavo's teaching style is perfect! All served up with a cheeky grin! It is the best! Come and join us!"
Jan Mackey - Latin Funk student - West Vancouver, BC

"Gustavo is a great instructor who teaches everything from proper technique and correct positioning to sexy Latin moves. Great for couples or individuals. It's a fun class and a great workout, which gets you pumped to hit the Latin Clubs! I really enjoyed it and learned a lot of new moves while having fun!"
Anna Maria - Student – Vancouver, BC

"One of the most fast-paced and innovative classes I've ever taken! Not to mention fun! A great way to get in shape AND improve your dance skills! Awesome!"
Wendy – Long time student – Vancouver, BC

"I love your classes! They have helped me to stay in shape and motivated. Also, it’s nice to hear good, high energy Latin music!"
Sandra – Long time student – Vancouver, BC

"I love the energy that this dance represents! Latin Funk is a dance that would not only bring dance knowledge to Canada, but also educate different dancers about the possibility of communicating through dance."
Teresa – Calgary, Alberta

"This is the only class I take to get in shape, as I am tired of aerobics. I have lost almost 20 pounds!"
Catherine – Student - Vancouver, BC

"I am not one for doing aerobics classes, but after I tried Latin Funk it was the best class I ever enjoyed. Gustavo's enthusiasm, dancing abilities, and teaching skills made the class enjoyable, fun and an incredible work out."
Rubina – Vancouver, BC

"These classes are totally awesome, an excellent workout, bundles of fun, great instruction, fun choreography! I can’t say enough! Just from doing these classes, whenever I go dancing, I find myself doing the funky moves we learn in class and I have a blast!"
Felicia –Vancouver, BC