Instructors

Reinier Valdes (Director)

Reinier Valdes was born in Habana, Cuba. He first started dancing to the Afro Cuban rhythms at a young age of 13. Reinier was immediately discovered by a professional Afro Cuban dance team who recruited his talent and showcased him all over Cuba. At age 18, he graduated from La Casa de la Cultura de Arroyo Naranjo (Cuban School of Dance) as a dance instructor specializing in Cuban dances and Latin rhythms. In February of 2009, Reinier relocated to Brazil where he continued his work as a dancer, performer, and choreographer. He started his own performance group touring and performing in Brazil.
Reinier now lives in Seattle, WA where he continues to dance and share his talent and passion for the Salsa, and Afro Cuban rhythms through dance classes, workshops, and performances.

Daniela Gallardo (Co-director)

Daniela Gallardo, a native of Mexico, is the Co-Director of “La Clave Cubana” and teaches alongside with Reinier Valdes at their dance academy as well as in the Salsa congresses all over the USA. Her love for music and dancing started at a young age leading her to be one of the principal dancers at the music festivals in her school. She created her first choreography at age 15 and in her early 20's she joined a dance team in Mexico. Daniela’s has been dancing Salsa for 10 years, including LA style (linear salsa) and Latin Salsa and Salsa in a Circle.