Ernesto Reyes, director and teacher for SAOCO, Washington DC, chose the word, 'SAOCO' as it instantly identifies the group as 'Cuban' or as a 'Rueda' group.

Ernesto has been dancing rueda and salsa casino for four years. He was instantly hooked as he watched the former Premiere Washington DC Rueda group, S.C.A.M. lead by Piero Gonzalez and Jimmy Rivas, perform. He says, "I really enjoyed how much fun everyone had while dancing and how much they enjoyed each others company."

Rueda, danced in a circle with a leader who 'calls' moves to the group, is a very social dance and lends itself to forming friendships and social bonds. Ernesto had also recalled the Rueda scene in the movie 'Dance With Me' which was popular a few years ago and he decided to take lessons. After just a few months of taking lessons, Ernesto advanced enough to be asked to join S.C.A.M.

Now, Ernesto teaches Rueda in Silver Spring, Maryland and directs the SAOCO performance group. You may reach Ernesto by sending an email through the 'contact us' link to your left.

Ernesto would like to thank the following people: Piero and Claudia González, Jaime and Melinda Rivas (former instructors), Ramiro Paez, Sam Rodriguez, Jennifer González, Sergio Linares, Reyna Morales, my friends from S.C.A.M, and the former group: Natasha Walker, Ines Kudo, Jennie Carey, Rodolfo Caballeros, and Mein Samala. And to all those who participate every week and helps SAOCO grow - GRACIAS!