“He consistently offers his students new and creative ways to engage with the material being presented, and to deepen not only their physical understanding, but their emotional and intellectual understanding as well.”
Teaching Philosophy
First and foremost, I believe in creating a space that's exploratory and full of possibilities. I want dancers to discover something new about themselves every time they step into my class. But I also want them to understand that building technique and a strong foundation is what truly gives them freedom in their movement. I keep my classes very organized and comprehensive. Within that structure, I carve out room to explore and find deeper sensations in the work we're doing.
Cisco is an adept, intelligent, and amazing teacher. His classes also help you discover a new and engaging way to either think about or approach dance. And his combinations are some of the most fun I’ve ever had dancing. -Sarah Grace Houston, BFA Dance, Ailey/Fordham.
Community is really important to me. I love getting students into small groups or pairs so they can observe each other and give feedback. This interaction helps lighten the atmosphere and creates a relaxed vibe. We keep things light and playful, but it's focused and concentrated fun with an intention.
Music is a big part of my teaching. I want my students to buy into the idea that musicality will improve their technique. For instance, how would imagining their entire body as the conductor’s baton influence the dynamic quality of your movement? This approach helps dancers connect with the music and each other, and it has helped me immensely in my own technique.
For me, dance isn't just about the cool, exciting things our bodies can do. It's about sensation, intention, and truly engaging all the senses. I want my students to have an opinion and a clear intention behind every movement, even something as simple as extending their arms. We take everyday movements and postures, embellish them, and create art.
At the end of the day, what we do as dancers is deeply human. We observe the world around us, draw inspiration from it, and transform it into our art. I always remind my students that every movement we explore has this everyday element.