Studio Services

About Us

You’re here because something sparked your interest in dance.

Maybe you're feeling a little unsure—wondering if you’ve got two left feet.

Maybe you're looking for something fun and meaningful to do with your partner.

Maybe you're craving more movement, connection, or creativity in your life.

Or maybe, you're finally ready to try something you’ve always wanted to do.

Whatever brought you here, welcome. You're in the right place.

I started Ballroom Dance Chicago in 2008 to help people just like you—busy, discerning individuals who value meaningful, high-quality experiences—discover just how natural and enjoyable dancing can be. I don’t believe in the myth that some people are “just not dancers.” I’ve seen time and time again that with the right guidance, anyone can move with confidence and connection. I don’t believe in the myth that some people are “just not dancers.” I’ve seen time and time again that with the right guidance, anyone can move with confidence and connection.

Partner dancing is more than steps and routines. It’s communication. It’s presence. It’s a chance to learn something new while laughing, connecting, and maybe even surprising yourself.

Whether you're preparing for a wedding, searching for a fun new hobby, or simply curious, the team and myself are here to help you explore the many sides of Ballroom, Latin, and Swing dance.

We’ll meet you wherever you are—no pressure, no pretense.

Let us help guide you toward capability and confidence on and off the dance floor.

Matthew Sove, Founder

Explore Our Events!

Whether you’re passionate about dance or simply looking for a fun and engaging way to spend your time, our events have something for everyone of any dance level!

From regular group classes and semi-private lessons (perfect for staying with your partner) to weekend workshops and dazzling formal balls, we offer a variety of events throughout the year to keep you moving and inspired.

Best Reviewed Ballroom, Latin, Swing & First Dance Studio In Chicago

Very grateful for Matthew and the team! Excellent, personally-tailored instruction. The space is stunning. And this has become our favorite weekly date night. It continues to be a time for us to connect, learn, and love on each other. Highly recommend.
— Hannah on Google
My husband and I worked with David for our choreographed first dance. We were SO happy with how it turned out - performing it for our guests was one of the highlights of our wedding day! As a same-sex couple, it was important to us to work with an instructor who made us feel comfortable dancing together - David did just that, not only through his lessons but also his choreography. David embraced our vision for the first dance and eased us in to his choreography week over week....We will be back to dance at Ballroom Chicago even with the wedding over!
— Andy on The Knot
My wife and I have tried several dance studios around Chicago and by far the nicest and easiest to work with is Ballroom Dance Chicago. The teachers are great and really know how to guide you along in your dance practice. Highly recommended!
— Sunil on Yelp

Dance Styles We Teach & Where to Find Them

You don’t need to know the names of the dances before walking in the door—most people don’t! That’s why our most popular classes are general and cover a mix of styles, so you can learn as you go.

Private Lessons will always be your most flexible option!

Most Popular Styles

Argentine Tango

Smooth, sultry, and deeply connected, Argentine Tango is a wonderful dance for partners looking to up their communication and connection.

👉 Find It: Argentine Tango Group Classes for Couples

Country

Easygoing, musical, and social by nature—Country dancing is a fun way to connect, whether you’re headed to a country bar or preparing for a country-themed wedding. Styles: Country Two Step, Country Swing, Country Waltz, Country Shuffle, Country Cha Cha.

👉 Find It: DanceSport Country Classes for Individuals

General Social Dancing

Think of this as your most functional, all-purpose dance toolkit. Whether you're heading to a wedding, a party, or a night out with live music, these foundational patterns and techniques help you feel comfortable dancing to a wide range of music styles.

👉 Find It: Ballroom Group Classes for Couples

Salsa

Latin club favorites that are high-energy, upbeat, and full of heat. These styles are perfect for those looking to be able to enjoy all the Latin dance scenes Chicago has to offer.

👉 Find It: Salsa Club Group Classes for Couples, Latin Classes for Individuals

Swing

Fun, upbeat, works with a ton of music, and endlessly versatile, swing is a crowd favorite. Styles: East Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, Triple Swing, West Coast Swing.

👉 Find It: Swing Group Classes for Couples

Additional Styles

Ballroom Styles

These styles bring elegance and structure. Great for formal events like Chicago Ball Season, technique-focused dancers, or anyone who loves a little tradition. Styles: Foxtrot, Rumba, Tango, Waltz, Viennese Waltz

👉 Find It: Ballroom Group Classes for Couples, DanceSport Choreo for Individuals

Latin Styles

Rhythmic, expressive, and fun—Latin dancing adds a different type of musicality and flavor to your dancing. Styles: Bachata, Cha Cha, Mambo, Salsa

👉 Find It: Salsa Group Classes for Couples, DanceSport Latin for Individuals


Specialty Styles

These are the styles you either haven’t heard of, or styles that are uncommon in American dance—but trust us, they’re absolutely worth knowing. Whether they’re unexpectedly functional at weddings and socials, or just uniquely fun to dance, these under-the-radar gems deserve a spotlight. You’re most likely going to find these in crash courses and socials, and as always, in a private lesson! Styles: Bolero, Jive, Hustle, Nightclub Two Step, Peabody, Quickstep.

👉 Find It: Crash Courses & Socials