The Rhody Center for World Music and Dance

Our history: The Rhody Center for World Music and Dance offers group classes and private lessons in music and dance, for adults and children, in a wide variety of traditions. We also host special events and workshops. We opened on May 11, 2013.

Julie founded The Rhody Center for World Music and Dance, LLC in May, 2013. In September of 2014, a small group of board members established Friends of the Rhody Center, Inc., to provide student scholarships and to fund artist residencies. Friends of the Rhody Center is a 501(c)3 organization. If you are interested in donating to our scholarship fund, please contact Julie.

Our mission: The mission of the Rhody Center for World Music and Dance is to provide affordable group classes and private instruction in music and dance, with particular emphasis on the hard-to-find and/or on art forms that reflect the diverse heritage of Rhode Islanders. We tailor classes for adults, teens, and children, and we hold regular community event nights and occasional workshops. Our aim is to create a multi-cultural community space that encourages learning, self-expression, and creativity.

Our philosophy: The Rhody Center is made up of one director and a bunch of teachers of music and dance, and we are all active in the teaching and performing communities. We believe that music and dance are natural forms of expression for all. We aim to break down any barriers that would keep you and your family from trying something new. We don't force you to sign any year-long contracts. We offer high-quality, original material that puts YOU first. We operate in a non-competitive environment, in order to keep the focus on the fun parts of music and dance. We hope that you enjoy your experience with us, and we hope that you will tell your friends about us, too!

After school programming: The Rhody Center offers after school programming, working in partnership with select area schools. Schools with transportation may bring their students to the Rhody Center. Or, we also send teachers into the schools to teach. We have also started working with an area homeschooling organization! The programming we offer typically mirrors what we offer to the public. Please contact Julie for more information.

Practice space rental: Existing dance troupes, solo dancers, and ensembles may rent time in the Rhody Center for their rehearsals. Affordable rates include use of the sound system, air conditioning, and mirrors. Please contact Julie for more information.