If you’ve attended one of our social dance parties, then you’ve likely met Jake Matthew. He is a regular at dance parties, open houses, showcases, and every other social event at Aria Ballroom. But in fact, he was a familiar face in our local community even long before Aria Ballroom opened its doors for business. As he waltzed around the dance floor, we caught up with Jake to get a bit more of his dance background.
Jake Matthew in a lesson with his teacher, Kora Stoynova
Jake actually started dancing 19 years ago! That’s only if you don’t include the Disco years, he added with a laugh. Apparently, he had a roommate who had started ballroom dancing. Now this roommate was really into ballroom dancing. Jake used to come home late at night and find all of the living room furniture pushed to the side so he could practice. At first Jake was annoyed, but after a few nights of this, he decided to see what all the fuss was about and booked a private lesson. He’s been hooked ever since!
“My favorite part of dancing is being part of an art form that I know is limitless and that I can immerse myself in it as much as I choose,” he told us. “My goals are to improve all dances as I am primarily a social dancer. However, I am particularly focused on Standard at the moment, as that’s my weak spot.”
A social dancer means someone who is not interested in doing competitions, but someone who enjoys dancing primarily for the social aspect. At Aria Ballroom, we offer a wide variety of opportunities for dancers with varying motivations and goals. Many dancers, Jake included, enjoy the community aspect of dancing.
“It is an artform that I share with the wonderful community at Aria Ballroom,” he said. “Without this community we would become discouraged and apathetic. It’s no secret that Aria Ballroom is a big part of our lives and feel very fortunate to be a part of this community.”
His favorite dance? “That’s a moving target!” he replied with a laugh. “This is a tough question for most who enjoy ballroom, but right now it’s Waltz. I feel like I’m finally getting it with the help of my teacher and practice partners!”
Jake takes regular private lessons with his current teacher, Kora Stoynova, both on his own and with his main partner, Susan. And for the first time in his dancing life, he is gearing up for a Smooth competition with Susan, for which he is very excited! It might be that he has been inspired by the competition exploits of his teenage son, Kai.
Jake’s son, Kai Matthew, at a dance competition with his partner, Vlada Denysovets
Kai started dancing the moment he could walk. Since those early days, Kai and his partner Vlada have been crowned National Champions in the Preteen divisions multiple times, and as Junior competitors, rank as one of the top couples in the United States. They are wonderful representatives for our successful youth program, “Youth Dance Lab”.
“I love that Kai dances!” he exclaimed enthusiastically. “There is no problem supporting your kid if you share the same passion.”
With a sly chuckle, Jake added, “I could be accused of steering him towards ballroom at an early age. You know, before he knew any better. I maybe forgot to take him to football tryouts or hockey practice. But hey! I’m pretty sure Tiger Woods’ dad played golf! So… that’s something for the therapist later on.”
Kai, like his dad, also loves the social aspect of ballroom dancing. You can find father and son at the dance parties together, often swapping partners throughout the night. And Jake often uses Kai as a partner to practice new steps or leading techniques. What a great way for father and son to bond over a shared passion!
Next time you’re at one of our dance parties, make sure to say hello to Jake. If you haven’t met him yet, introduce yourself! You won’t find a nicer person at the parties, and his lead is pretty good, too.
Feeling a bit unsure of yourself in a social dance setting? Reach out to us and we can help turn your two left feet into twinkling toes. We offer a wide variety of learning opportunities, from private lessons to group classes. If you haven’t done so yet, make sure to sign up for your introductory special in order to get started!
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