Guinean Dance With Maria Young

WEST AFRICAN DANCE CLASS
ALL LEVELS – BEGINNERS WELCOME

Maria’s teaching approach is to create a supportive and comfortable atmosphere. It is both bodies
conscious and soul-freeing, leading students through a yogic style warm-up, a clear break-down
of movements and a joyous learning experience of traditional dances.
Through her classes, students will expand their minds, and bodies and experience a new passion.
West African dance is celebratory in its expression and Maria’s intention is to bring healing
by sharing this art form with as many as she can reach.

For questions call (628) 246-4766

About Maria

San Francisco native Maria Young has been captivated by the energy and richness of traditional
Guinean dances since a life-changing class at CCSF in 1994. Her studies also encompass the
rhythms that accompany the dances, and she teaches drumming as well. Teaching and
performing for over 22 years has taken Maria to dance centers across California, Oregon and
Colorado, and abroad to St Croix.
Throughout her dance journey, Youssouf Koumbassa has been Maria’s main instructor and
inspiration. Through his teaching, she learned to present material clearly, with attention to detail
and focus on technique. This class style is great for beginners and also helpful for more
experienced dancers. As a mom, Maria is very attuned to the needs of the community and
creates a welcoming, family-friendly environment.