River City Dance Studio

"I went to the website to look for the class schedule and prices. I didn’t find any. I filled out the ‘contact us’ box with my experience and what I was looking for. I am an experienced dancer; been dancing for over 26 years, but mostly Latin style, with a mix of ballroom, country, modern, and started in swing this year. I performed for 5 years on an all-female dance team. I was interested in the class schedule, prices, and west coast swing. A guy named Felix called me back the next day (I love the quickness) and left a message. I’ve been at home sick with fever so I missed his call. We spoke on 12 Sept. He introduced himself and told me that he’d give me an overview of all their programs and if I had any questions I could ask after he finished his spiel. I agreed. He started off with himself and the dance studio accolades. I couldn’t have picked a better studio. He told me the former mayor and his wife (Henry Cisneros) and the country’s “only open heart surgeon” have taken lessons from him at his studio. He told me he’s been teaching for over 40 years. He then told me I “needed” the 3 class package normally for $300, but because I sent a message on his website, it would be 50% off. In the 3 class, 3 hour package, I would first be paired with an instructor who would do an assessment and teach me all I “need” to know. During the second hour, the instructor would introduce me to him and then he’d go into further instruction. The third hour would be a group class held Fridays. He gave me the time frame I could schedule my classes and then mentioned his studio was the best in town and I couldn’t find another studio that would offer group lessons for less than $26 a lesson. My initial impression of the call was one of arrogance and pride. He didn’t even read my form or have it in front of him. I told him I didn’t see a class schedule on his website which is why I reached out. I just wanted to take a West Coast Swing class. He explained the 3 class package to me…again. That was what I needed. He said I could ask him anything, but then kept interrupting me, when I started to ask a question. I asked him when group classes were, he eventually told me it was on Fridays, and repeated I couldn’t find a better group class for less than $26 a lesson. I told him that in my research I actually found 3 studios that had classes of them for $12-15. I go to a reputable one that charges $18 a lesson. He made several grunting or stammering noises and asked me the names of the studios. At that moment, I was in the kitchen making tea, I didn’t have the list! I told him I didn’t remember right then. He said the only ones he knew of are Arthur Murray and Fred Astaire and he wouldn’t recommend any other places. He also said any studio offering free lessons, he wouldn’t trust. He asked me for another question. I asked him how long the special was good for. He said, “well you’re talking to me right now.” I didn’t understand that response and told him that. He said, “it’s good for today, since we’re discussing the special right now.” At this point, I was ready to hang up. He wasn’t really wanting to listen to me, I got the impression he just wanted to sell me his package deal. I told him I didn’t have $150 right now because I’ve spent a lot of money this month on medical appointments and supplements. I’ve been sick for 2 days. He was considerate enough to ask for a small down payment to hold my class package and asked when I could have the money by and how much I could put down. Honestly, I didn’t want to do business with someone like that. I didn’t feel like a person who could ask questions with how he was cutting me off and all his arrogance felt slimy. At that point I finally told him I didn’t like high pressure sales, I needed more time to think about it and didn’t want to make a decision right then. He said, ok, thank you and then I hung up. He was very pushy and rude and I won’t be calling again. I hope others have better communication."

"My husband and I have been learning dance steps with different dance instructors for a few years now. And for that we are thankful and appreciative. However, David’s mastery in the art of dance put into action from facial expressions to hand feet and body movements and why it is essential to the dance made us feel like true dancers. David is so patient and enthusiastic in teaching us. We cant wait for social dancing clubs to open again and show how much we have improved and love dancing more. We cherish each teaching day with David and looking forward to learn so much more."

"River City Dance Studio is amazing! My husband and I started out with taking the classes for Valentine’s Day. Chi was so much fun the first lesson! We have now been students since February and have secured our lessons through 2019. Chi is not only our instructor, but we consider him a friend. He has turned 2 people into a couple who enjoys getting out and dancing! We love the group classes as well. David is wonderful and adds so much sass in the routines. Overall, we LOVE our extended family at River City Dance Studios!!"

"My wife and I signed up for a series of lessons--both private and group--as total beginners. We had a great experience, and learned so much. Mr. Felix, Art, and Lindsay were great instructors. We primarily worked with Chi, and he was outstanding. He is a great instructor. We were lucky to have him to teach us. He was so patient and helpful with us. We have made real improvement, and, now, have no hesitation going out dancing as couple. I cannot recommend the River City Dance Studio highly enough."