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NEW MEXICO'S BACHATA SCHOOL
The path to full expression. . .
WHO IS METTA DANCE?
The name Metta Dance Collective is a reflection of our core values and aspirations. The word 'Metta,' from the teachings of Buddhism means loving-kindness. It serves as the guiding principle behind everything we do. We aim to foster an environment of inclusivity and safety, embodying the spirit of 'metta' by creating a community where individuals can flourish and express themselves freely.
The choice of 'Collective' in our name is deliberate – it represents our commitment to community and collaboration. Metta Dance is not just about dance steps; it's about the collective strength and creativity that emerges when diverse individuals come together.
Rooted in the profound meaning of 'metta,' our collective is a dance community that celebrates love, kindness, growth, and expression. Join us as we dance together, learn from one another, and collectively create a space where everyone can thrive.
Our Vision
We envision a world where dance celebrates all identities and backgrounds while fostering human connection. A dance world where people feel safe to thrive and fully express themselves.
Our Mission
Our mission is to unite through dance, creating an inclusive space where individuals grow physically, emotionally and spiritually. We aspire to be a catalyst for positive change, empowering individuals to embrace their truest selves through the transformative power of dance.
MEET THE STAFF
Lead Instructor
My name is Carina Palomino
Dance is more than movement; it is an exploration of self, a journey that unveils layers of connection, expression, and embodiment. During the challenging times of COVID, the absence of social dance during lockdown revealed its importance in my life.
When dance became accessible again, I dove deeper than ever. I joined a performing team and became fascinated by training. Such obsession led me to start teaching bachata classes in 2023. That same year I started traveling to the Dominican Republic, where I immersed myself in the heart of bachata as a student of its roots, culture, and history.
Now, I teach not only technique but also the story behind the music, honoring its origins while also leaning into bachata fusion. My goal is to equip people with the tools to find their own voice within the dance, always with respect for where it came from.
Dance has taught me the power of acceptance, the rewards of discipline, and the beauty of continuous expansion. Dance brings people together and helps us learn about ourselves; it is a vehicle for authentic connection to yourself and others. It transformed my life in powerful ways, and it is my great joy and opportunity to instruct others in it.
Level I Instructor
My name is Tammy Huynh
I found bachata completely by chance after being invited to a class while traveling in Chile a stranger. I had never even heard of bachata at the time. When I returned to Albuquerque, I took my first class with Carina and Jessica. Watching them dance together during the demo lit a fire inside me. I couldn’t stop smiling. I remember thinking, “I want that to be me someday.” Looking back now, it’s surreal to realize that I made past Tammy’s goals a reality.
Dance has opened doors I never expected while challenging me in ways I never imagined. It has pushed me beyond limiting beliefs, taught me to embrace vulnerability, and encouraged me to grow a little more every day. My younger self would be shocked to know that I now stand in front of a room and teach. Even today, I still get nervous before every class, but the moment the music starts, I feel energized like I am exactly where I’m meant to be.
As an instructor, I believe strong fundamentals create the freedom to be creative. My goal is to help students build confidence in their movement while discovering the version of themselves they want to express through the music. I hope that every person leaves class feeling a little lighter than when they walked in.
After all, a dance a day keeps the demons away. Am I right? Dance has transformed my life, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share that joy with others.
Level I instructor since January 2026
Dance Coaches
James Fluke
What I love most about being a Dance Coach at Metta is seeing people gain confidence, fluency, and creativity with their dance, then seeing that carry over into how they see themselves. There is nothing better than helping others access higher levels of fun! Metta is a place to learn and grow with others in our appreciation of dance and connection. For anyone considering joining our community, know this: at Metta, all are welcome and valued with loving kindness 💜
Dance Coach since January 2026
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