Born and raised in Puerto Rico until the age of seven, I am the oldest of four boys.  I was raised by a small village of people, composed of my mother, my grandparents, and my uncles.  Originally the trip to New York City at the age of seven was to be a summer vacation…I am still here! 

Growing up, I can honestly say that I do not remember a time when music was not played in my household.  There always seemed to be some kind of celebration related to a school or holiday activity.  Salsa music has surrounded my life for as long as I can remember.  In high school, I learned a little bit of Tango, Tap dancing, and Salsa.  In addition, I performed the dance of my heritage, Plena, along with Salsa, for talent shows in high school.  This eventually earned me the title of “Dance King” at my high school.  Despite some experience with dancing through high school, I primarily learned to dance at home.  Spanish music always played in my home, and I have had a passion for moving and dancing to the music since my childhood days.

For a long time I thought I wanted to be grow up to be the guy with a suit and briefcase.  I also thought I might become a doctor, a lawyer, or a veterinarian.  But always included in my dreams was that of becoming a professional dancer.  Somewhat grown up at this point, I still do not know exactly which route I will take in life.  The one thing, however, that has not changed is my passion for dancing. 

A couple of years ago I had a minor accident that pushed me into fulfilling this dancing dream of mine.  During this time, I started taking classes at a small place in Harlem with an instructor named Ray Vega.  Eager, hungry, and devoted to dancing, I took both the beginner and intermediate classes at the same time.  Within a year, I met Joe Burgos after he came with one of his teams to perform at a Ray Vega social.  Joe offered to give free classes for the entire summer to any of us there at the social.  I took him up on that offer, and ultimately became a member of Piel Canela Dance Company. 

I have had a great experience thus far as a member of PCD; one that has opened up many of my views.  The diversity and mixture of cultures coming together to share a common passion has been a huge reason I have enjoyed PCD as much as I have.  I now know without a doubt that I want to learn and archive as much knowledge as possible from the instructors, team members, and Joe, so that eventually I can get involved in teaching Salsa.  Until then, I will continue enjoying to perform as a member of Piel Canela.