Belly Dance Show Guest Zosha

Ziva's performance was stunning, inspiring, and revolutionary!

Belly Dance Show Guest Aurora

Hello! I went to The Nutcracker at Shoshanna's studio last year when Ziva was the sugar plum fairy, and I thought she was the most beautiful dancer I had ever seen. Ziva was absolutely amazing, and because of her I decided to start belly dancing myself. I was in this year's production of The Nutcracker and I had the time of my time. So I wanted to say thank Ziva, and let her know that she is an inspiration.

Belly Dance Show Guest Apal

Ziva is the most entertaining dancer I have ever had the pleasure to watch!

Belly Dance Student Ana

I took dance classes from Ziva for years in Petaluma, and was very sad to see her go!  Ziva has been a huge inspiration for me in pursuing dance as a true passion rather than something to dabble in with occasional spurts of interest. With her joyful teaching style, her sophisticated technique (due to a remarkably well-rounded cross-cultured training background in multiple dance genres), and her engaging stage presence, I was always felt inspired to come back for more. In regards to her teaching style, I appreciate how she breaks down moves visually and repeatedly with the understanding that repetition is THE way to incorporate new technique into body memory. I sometimes find that teachers will move too quickly without enough repetition, causing confusion as the choreography progresses. Also a lot of describing/talking about moves is not usually helpful for me--I'm definitely a visual learner, which is compatible with how she teaches. Ziva answers questions thoughtfully (there are no dumb ones!) and she always invites requests, happy to cater her lessons to meet the needs of her students. What I also love is how encouraging and respectful she is of everyone's unique style and "flavor". There are teachers who need their students' technique match their own, and will continue to give constructive feedback until desired results are achieved. While this can lead to "perfect" technique, it can also foster rigidity and anxiousness about not doing it right, causing fixation on technique rather than flowing with the music and enjoying the experience. In studying with Ziva I have learned to feel confident about my dancing (I am naturally very shy) and believe this is largely because she was so encouraging and validating of the "flavor" I brought. She does provide constructive feedback if she sees something being done inaccurately, but if you are looking for a teacher who is confrontational around technique nuances, she is likely not for you!) As a definite plus, her classes generate a vibe of warmth and friendliness, which she creates simply by being the beautiful person she is. So give her a try so you can joyfully and effectively learn to dance too! And know that I am jealous that you are close enough to be able to!

Powerhouse Percussion DVD

I just received my dvd and I love it! Thank you Ziva so much! Her dance is amazing and beautiful.

Bellydance Workshop Student Tracey

II was a participant at the women's cancer retreat this past weekend at Westerbeke Ranch and wanted to thank Ziva for being a part of our special weekend gathering.  I thought it was so very kind of her to donate her time to us on a Saturday evening especially after a long days work.  Ziva certainly brought a smile to my face as I enjoyed moving and shaking as best I could!!!  Ziva is very talented and gifted and I wish Ziva MUCH success in the future.  I will be certain to recommend Ziva's services as I have lots to talk about regarding my weekend.

Fitness Class Student

Fabulous outstanding toning class! Ziva was fun, engaging, and had great technique and knowledge of body. Excellent teacher!

Wedding Dance Choreography Students Jaimie and Greg

Thank you Ziva so much for choreographing our dance and our group dance for our wedding!  Learning the dance with Ziva and then our practice time together was my favorite part of the wedding planning.