Waltz Academy - Chicago
Ballroom Dance Chicago is the home of the premier Waltz Academy in the United States. It is our commitment to preserve the rich heritage of the Viennese waltz and English waltz while infusing them with a contemporary flair. Our program is designed for dancers of all levels, from beginners to advanced, offering an unparalleled learning experience that extends from our dance floor to the historic ballrooms of Vienna.
About Our Program
-
Expert Instruction: Learn from world-class instructors passionate about your growth as a dancer and dedicated to conveying the elegance and spirit of the Viennese and English waltzes. Our waltz teachers have studied the form extensively in both the United States and Vienna, where the waltz originated.
Comprehensive Curriculum: Our curriculum spans fundamental techniques to advanced styling, ensuring a well-rounded mastery of these elegant dances. We offer instruction in both American and International Style Viennese waltz as well as English (slow) waltz. Many of our students show interest in both styles, dancing a hybrid style.
Personalized Learning: With tailored lesson plans and personalized feedback, we cater to your individual journey toward becoming a proficient dancer. Let us know what you want to accomplish and your timeframe and we can create a personalized program just for you.
Performance and Travel Opportunities: Not only will you have the chance to perform locally, but our program uniquely includes trips to Vienna for the ball season, with the opportunity to attend two of the city's most prestigious balls.
-
At Waltz Academy, we offer three distinct levels of learning, each designed to cater to your unique experience and learning pace. Our tracks require varying levels of commitment, ensuring that every dancer finds the perfect fit for their needs.
Beginner Fundamentals: Embark on your dancing journey with the basics of slow waltz and Viennese waltz, from posture to the iconic rotary movement.
Intermediate Techniques: Advance your skills with intricate techniques and styling, enhancing your musicality and expression on the dance floor.
Advanced Performance: Aim for perfection in performance or competition, mastering the artistry and technique of this exquisite dance.
We also offer Weekend Immersion classes and one-off group classes throughout the year, so keep your eyes on our schedule for update class dates.
Syllabi
While adhering to many of the established norms in Viennese and English waltz, our syllabi are proprietary to us. Under development since 2008, they capture the true essence of these dances and provide an accessible path to mastery.
-
We start every dancer’s journey at Waltz Academy with a consultation with Master Instructor, Matthew Sove. He can help determine which level is right for you. Also, during your meeting, he will create a customized plan tailored specifically to your abilities and goals. That way at the end of your consultation, you’ll have a better understanding of what time commitment will be required from you to reach your goals.
-
Waltz Academy - The Official School of Chicago Ball Season.
We are delighted to invite you to join us in bringing the elegance and tradition of the Viennese ball season to Chicago. The Chicago Ball Season features six enchanting balls, with plans to expand to twelve balls in 2026.
At Waltz Academy, you’ll become part of a vibrant community of dance enthusiasts, immersing yourself in the rich culture and timeless traditions of the waltz. Our mission is not only to teach you the steps but also to connect you with the essence of these historic dances, fostering a sense of belonging and shared joy.
Discover the magic of the Chicago Ball Season and how you can be part of this captivating experience.
-
Our Viennese Waltz program offers an exclusive opportunity to experience the grandeur of Vienna's ball season firsthand. This trip includes:
Attending Two Prestigious Balls: Experience the pinnacle of ballroom dancing by participating in two of Vienna's most celebrated balls - the Kaffeseiderbal and the Opernbal. It's a chance to witness the tradition, elegance, and sophistication of the waltz in its birthplace.
Cultural Immersion: Explore the historic city of Vienna, visiting landmarks that have shaped the world of ballroom dancing. This cultural immersion deepens your understanding and appreciation of the dance.
Master Classes in Vienna: Take part in master classes with renowned local instructors, honing your skills in the very city where the waltz originated.
Schedule A Consultation or Group Class
Waltz Academy Consultation
If you are interested in private lessons or want to have the Master Instructor tailor a plan for you, please sign up for a consultation.
The cost reflects the price for 1 OR 2 people.
Waltz Academy Group Class Schedule
Below are all the classes that would be helpful to someone preparing for a Viennese Ball or a similar event. Don’t see a class for today? Look for the dates that have dots under them to find the best classes!
Please Note: If the class is “Semi-Private”, a partner is required and the cost reflects the price for both people.
Contact Waltz Academy
Info@ballroomdancechicago.com
LAKEVIEW STUDIO:
4039B N Ravenswood Ave
Chicago, IL 60613
FULTON MARKET STUDIO:
845 W Fulton Market Rd, Ste 213
Chicago, IL 60607
FAQ
-
We specialize in teaching the Viennese Waltz, English Waltz, and Quadrille. These classic dances are characterized by their elegance, grace, and smooth movements. We also offer lessons and workshops on other ballroom dance styles commonly seen at balls upon request.
-
No prior experience is necessary! We offer classes for all levels, from complete beginners to advanced dancers. Our instructors will guide you step-by-step through the basics if you’re just starting out.
-
For group classes and workshops, a partner is required, as these sessions focus on partner-based dancing. However, if you’re interested in private lessons, no partner is needed, and our instructors can work with you one-on-one to improve your dancing skills.
-
For our Ball Prep and Quadrille classes, we request that participants wear a jacket or a dress to match the formal nature of these dances. For private lessons, you are free to wear anything comfortable—many students opt for workout attire, as private sessions can be more intensive with lots of dancing. It's highly recommended to wear ballroom shoes that have suede soles. If you do not have ballroom shoes, feel free to wear comfortable shoes with smooth soles.
-
Yes, we do! We offer special wedding dance packages tailored to couples preparing for their first dance. Whether you want to waltz or learn a different style, we’ll choreograph a beautiful routine suited to your song and preferences.
-
We do not offer refunds, and all lessons are non-transferable. If you need to cancel a lesson, please do so at least 24 hours in advance of your scheduled appointment. Cancellations made within 24 hours will result in the forfeiture of the lesson.