ABOUT US
Passion | Expression | Fitness | Community
OUR MISSION
Salsa with Hunter is dedicated to transforming lives through Latin dance. Founded by world-class dancer Hunter Houde, our school blends structured learning, expert instruction, and a welcoming community to help students master dance while enhancing their physical health, social connections, and self-confidence. We believe that dance is a journey of growth and self-discovery, providing an avenue for self-expression, cultural appreciation, and lifelong friendships. Our mission is to make Latin dance accessible, inspiring, and a source of joy for all who step onto the dance floor.
OUR UNIQUE APPROACH
We combine methodical teaching with athletic training, ensuring dancers progress efficiently and with confidence. By integrating structured syllabi, physical optimization, and immersive dance experiences, we help students refine their skills and develop a deeper understanding of movement and rhythm. Our approach empowers dancers to not only learn but to feel the music and express themselves authentically. Through personalized instruction and a supportive environment, we create a pathway for dancers to grow at their own pace while challenging themselves to reach new heights.
WHY CHOOSE US?
Whether you want to refine your technique, find community, or compete at the highest level, we provide the tools and support to help you succeed. Our school fosters an environment where dancers of all backgrounds can thrive, build confidence, and share their love for latin dance. With access to top-tier instruction, a vibrant dance community, and opportunities for performances and competitions, students at Salsa with Hunter are set up for success. Join us and experience the power of dance to transform your body, mind, and life.
THE TEAM
HUNTER HOUDE
INSTRUCTOR
Hunter Houde is a renowned Latin dance artist, instructor, and competitor based in New York City, with over 15 years of professional experience in teaching, performing, and competing.
Known for his technical precision, charisma, and stage presence, Hunter has earned notable accolades, including two Rising Star championships and a recent Vice Championship title at the World Salsa Summit in the Professional Salsa On2 division with his partner, Judith Marie Petri. Together, they rank among the top salsa competitors worldwide.
Hunter's diverse background in dance and the arts enriches his style. He trained in martial arts as a youth, earning a second-degree black belt in Tang Soo Do, adding strength and agility to his dance. He also trained in classical dance at Alvin Ailey, ballroom dance at Arthur Murray, and Afro-Cuban dance in New York and Havana, Cuba.
In Salsa, Hunter has studied under Eddie Torres, Franklin Díaz, Anya Katsevman, and Adolfo Indacochea, blending their teachings into powerful and unique performances. He has appeared in film and theater, including dancing in In the Heights and starring in the off-Broadway production Carmen: To Havana and Back. Hunter has also been a key member of teams like Balmir, Iroko, and Latin Soul Dancers, performing across North America.
His teaching style focuses on connection and musicality, empowering dancers of all levels. With a deep understanding of multiple dance genres, he brings a broad and versatile perspective to movement, allowing him to tailor his approach to suit each dancer’s unique background and learning style.
Whether performing, teaching, or social dancing, Hunter brings passion and professionalism to every event, making him a sought-after artist in the Latin dance world.
KAITLYN DE LA ROSA
INSTRUCTOR
Kaitlyn first took a salsa class in November 2016, although she had been hearing Latin music since childhood. As a preteen, she rediscovered the genre while exploring different styles on Pandora, and realized she already knew how to dance bachata and merengue. At 15, she decided it was time to learn something new and technical: salsa! While her dad was a big salsa fan, Kaitlyn’s own passion developed later in high school. In 2018, she joined her first semi-professional team, and her love for performing quickly grew. Starting at Lorenz in the Bronx as a student, she worked her way up through the student team before being invited to join their semi-pro team and teach children’s classes, solidifying her path as both a performer and instructor.
As a dancer, Kaitlyn is known for her natural body movement and effortless style, embodying rhythm and feminine elegance. She teaches salsa with energy, skill, and style, making it fun for dancers of all levels. With a strong focus on foundations and fundamentals, she emphasizes body movement, timing, connection, and clean technique, helping students build confidence from the ground up. Kaitlyn’s warm, friendly smile and adaptable coaching create an inspiring and enjoyable learning environment where dancers of all levels can grow, thrive, and express themselves with creativity and flair.
GABRIELLA AGUDELO
INSTRUCTOR
Gabriella “Gabby” Agudelo was born and raised in New Jersey, with both parents originally from Colombia. Her dance foundation is deeply rooted in salsa caleña and salsa on1, styles that shaped her rhythm, speed, and precision from an early age. Seeking to expand her versatility, Gabby began training in mambo (salsa on2) in New York City in 2017, immersing herself in the city’s vibrant Latin dance community. She continues to train rigorously, constantly refining her technique and exploring new styles.
With over ten years of experience beginning her salsa journey at the age of fifteen, Gabby continues to evolve as both a performer and educator. She is currently pursuing a degree in Dance, training extensively in ballet, contemporary, modern, and dance theater, which enriches her movement vocabulary and artistic expression. In addition to performing, Gabby is a dedicated dance instructor, sharing her passion and knowledge with students of all levels.
Gabby has performed live alongside renowned bachata artists such as Joe Veras, Frank Reyes and Max Santos and has been a key member of acclaimed teams including Zuberi Ladies, under the direction of Delia Madera, and Borinsura Pro, under the direction of Amneris Martinez in New York City.
Known for her dynamic stage presence and distinctive style, Gabby blends intricate salsa caleña footwork with expressive body movement, Afro-Cuban influences, and refined ladies’ styling creating a fusion that is both powerful and authentic.
OUR VALUES
At Salsa with Hunter, our core values shape everything we do. We believe in Passion, where dance is not just movement but a deep emotional Expression that connects individuals to themselves and others. Integrity is at the heart of our teaching, ensuring that every student is supported in a respectful and professional environment. Community is our foundation, fostering a welcoming and inclusive space where people from all backgrounds come together through dance.
We emphasize Fitness, recognizing that dance is both an art and a powerful tool for physical well-being. Finally, we embrace growth, encouraging students to push their boundaries, master their craft, and discover the transformative power of Latin dance. These values drive us to create an inspiring and enriching experience for every dancer who walks through our doors.
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