Diane Braam
My name is Diane Braam. I was born and raised on the magnificent Island of Curacao. I was born on the 15th of September 1988. I emigrated to Holland almost two years ago. I am studying tourism and this year I will switch to psychology.
Music always has been a part of my life. At the age of 14 I was introduced to the world of salsa. Besides school and modeling I started dancing lessons. I learned dancing on one. I took classes at Van Der Valk Hotel every Sunday and Thursday.
I didn’t see salsa as something WOW ! After taking a break from dancing for a couple of years to concentrate on my study and modeling work, my ambition eventually let me to explore salsa more deeply.
In Holland I went out al lot. Mostly to all kinds of party’s. I liked the nightlife in Holland. So one night I landed in Cantinero. They played only bachata, merenque and salsa. I liked it very much so after that night I visited Cantinero more often. Although I only could dance on one and not even so well. But I always had a blast. I met an ‘’ Matanza dancer ‘’ who asked me if I wanted to join the group. It was all new for me because I couldn’t dance on two, but I said yes. I’m open to learn new things. After visiting Matanza I immediately felt at home there. In January 2009 I started dancing with Matanza. I liked It very much because although the other Matanza dancers were on a higher level than me, they taught me very well and had a lot of patience with me. Especially the leader Gabi . I found it very difficult to dance on two, but now I’m getting the flow. I believe that we all learn by practicing.
Practice makes Perfect !!
I began understanding salsa more and more, even appreciated it more and with each year my passion for salsa grows. To develop myself, I observe other dancers and try to copy it and make it my own style.
Matanza ( for me )
My first words are. RRRRRRRR. For me the RRRRRR means the power of Matanza. The power that we all put together to make such a great group. Matanza is a group full of energetic dancers. We always try to help each other to make each other better and to learn from each others. We always try to give the best we have and support each other.