Learn Salsa dancing with Ricardo Tellez

Ricardo Tellez

 Ricardo Tellez was born in Mexico City, where his passion for dance began at the age of 12. From an early age, he was immersed in the rich rhythms of Afro-Caribbean and Latin music, first learning and absorbing dance styles such as Cumbia, Guaracha, Guaguancó, Guajira, Cha-Cha-Cha, Son Montuno, and Salsa. These foundational styles deeply shaped his musicality, movement, and understanding of rhythm—elements that continue to define his dancing today.

In 1995, Ricardo relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area, a move that would profoundly influence his artistic journey. Shortly after arriving, he began formally studying Salsa under renowned instructor Gabriel Romero. Determined to grow quickly, Ricardo accelerated his development by consistently practicing what he learned in clubs throughout the Bay Area, dancing nightly and learning directly from the music, the community, and the social dance floor. This real-world experience sharpened his technique, timing, and connection with partners.

By 1998, Ricardo began teaching Salsa in San Francisco, quickly gaining recognition for his clear instruction, strong musical foundation, and innovative approach. Over time, he developed his own distinctive method, becoming the creator of the ON5 Salsa dancing style, a unique interpretation that emphasizes musical phrasing, rhythm awareness, and Afro-Cuban roots. Today, Ricardo continues to teach and share this style through workshops and classes across the United States, inspiring dancers to deepen both their technique and musical understanding.

Ricardo’s performance career has taken him around the world. He has performed and taught internationally in Italy, Germany, Mexico, Jamaica, Cali (Colombia), Canada, India, Puerto Rico, and Ecuador, sharing his passion for Salsa with diverse communities and cultures while representing the San Francisco Bay Area on the global stage.

In August 1999, Ricardo founded RicaSalsa, an organization dedicated to the promotion, education, and performance of Salsa dancing. Through RicaSalsa, he has trained countless dancers and contributed significantly to the growth of the Salsa scene in the Bay Area and beyond.

In 2007, Ricardo began a powerful and influential partnership with Tianne Frias. Together, they became known for their dynamic performances, precision, and emotional expression. As a team, Ricardo and Tianne are two-time World Salsa Championship Finalists, earning international recognition for their artistry and dedication. In 2010, they achieved a major milestone by placing 3rd in the ON1 Division at the World Latin Dance Cup in San Diego, California.

With decades of experience as a dancer, teacher, choreographer, and innovator, Ricardo Tellez continues to be a respected figure in the global Salsa community. His lifelong commitment to the dance, deep respect for its roots, and passion for teaching have made a lasting impact on generations of dancers.