Zee

One of the top performers and instructors in Singapore, Zee is a familiar face in Singapore's social dance scene, having risen quickly to the top since he picked up Salsa some eight years ago. A seasoned performer and competitor, Zee has showcased his talents at salsa congresses all over the world, including New York, Sydney and Los Angeles. His achievements include a victory at the Asian qualifying leg of the World Salsa Championships in 2007, partnering Sharon Pakir. Zee has also performed with world-renowned artiste Magna Gopal from New York at various international events. Over the past two years, Zee has expanded his repertoire to include West Coast Swing. Learning the dance from world champions Jordan Frisbee and Tatiana Mollman, Zee is eager to share his passion for this dance. A fast learner, Zee managed a 5th place in the Pro-Am Novice division at SwingDiego 2011, 1st Place in Jack & Jill and 2nd Place in Strictly Swing Novice at Boogie by the Bay 2011.

Q. How did you get into dancing?

Well, it was by pure chance really. One night, despite my protests, my mum dragged me along with her to a Salsa event. That was the first time I had seen anyone dancing Street Salsa, and I was completely captivated. I decided to give it a try and have never looked back since!

Q. What type of international exposure / experience do you have?

I've performed at major international salsa congresses like the West Coast Salsa Congress in Los Angeles and the New York Salsa Congress. I’ve taught at the Sydney Salsa Congress, as well as in Bali, Kuala Lumpur, Bangalore and Melbourne. I’m really lucky to have had the chance to experience so much of the global salsa scene, and look forward to every new interaction with dancers from around the world.

Q. Who's your favourite International Artiste?

For me, it would have to be Jordan Frisbee and Tatiana Mollman, the world West Coast Swing champions. Their dancing is simply breathtaking to watch. The connection between them is amazing, and the musicality and emotion in their dancing makes every moment electric! I also really like Frankie Martinez for his shines – the quality of his body movement and control is unmatched.

Q. How would you describe your dance style?

I'm a very musical dancer, and adjust the way I dance to suit the feel of the songs I’m dancing to. In general, I'm fluid, a tad flashy, and I like to have a lot of contrast and dimension in my dancing. Body movement is a big part it, and I also place strong emphasis on the quality of my lead. I like having a good connection with my partner – that’s one of the best things about social dancing.

Q. What makes you special or unique as an instructor?

I’d say I’m creative with my teaching methods. I figure a lot of things out for myself, so that I can break it down for someone who doesn't have a dance background. I'm also someone who takes pride in being efficient, so I try to teach my students the fastest and most effective way to get on the dance floor and be comfortable dancing. Most importantly, I’m always learning. To me, that’s a top priority for any instructor – getting better for the sake of all the students that you teach!

Q. What should a student do to maximize their benefit from your classes?

One of the most important things is for students to always brush up on their basics. Basic steps are like your ABCs, and basic turn patterns are like grammar and vocabulary. If you only remember the grammar structure but can't spell, you're never going to be able to form a coherent sentence.