Chestnut Street Studio

What dancers say

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  Yumi Kouta

  Google

  · 3mo ago· 1 reviews

  Truly Transformative Flamenco Experience I've been dancing under the guidance of Melinda at Chestnut Street Studio for 13 years, and I can honestly say this studio stands out in a way few others do. What sets Melinda apart from other dance instructors I've encountered is her deep commitment to evoking true artistry in every student. Rather than simply drilling choreographed sequences or focusing on perfect replication of steps, she nurtures the individual expression and emotional depth that flamenco demands. Each class feels like a journey of personal discovery—where technique is built as a foundation, but the real magic happens when you connect with passion, and your own inner voice through movement. Melinda has an incredible ability to see the unique potential in each dancer and gently guide you toward it. Her classes blend rigorous training with moments of improvisation and musicality that make you feel like an artist, not just a student following steps. The atmosphere is supportive, passionate, and inspiring—perfect for anyone who wants more than surface-level dancing. If you're looking for a flamenco studio that goes beyond choreography to help you truly embody the soul of flamenco, I can't recommend Melinda and Chestnut Street Studio highly enough. It's changed the way I dance and the way I feel when I dance. Highly recommend for beginners to advanced dancers alike. ❤️

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  Patricia Faraone Nogelo, PhD, MSW, LCSW

  Google

  · 6mo ago· 6 reviews

  I have been Melinda’s student for over 13 years. Chesnut Street studio is a dream come true. We dance, we create, Melinda integrates somatic practice in our dance and yoga classes and we support our community. I highly recommend it!

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  Response from Chestnut Street Studio

  Dear Patricia, Thank you so much for this beautiful review! We are thrilled that our New Haven dance, flamenco and yoga studio continues to be such a positive experience and place for you! You and our community makes Chestnut Street Studio unique. Thank you for your valued support. See you soon!

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  Jill Savitt

  Google

  · 6mo ago· 3 reviews

  I have been dancing Flamenco at Chestnut Street Studio for 20 years and feel it is a privilege to be able to move and learn with such a gifted teacher in such a welcoming space.i also have taken yoga there and found the classes to be a perfect way to delve deeper into yoga's physical and spiritual realms.

  Response from Chestnut Street Studio

  Jill, A heartfelt "thank you" for this lovely review, and for being a devoted and important member of our New Haven dance, movement and yoga studio community. It is a privilege to have you in our classes, and we appreciate you taking time out to show your support. Good wishes and see you soon!

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  Jesse Friedman

  Google

  · 6mo ago· 10 reviews

  If you are looking for a personal experience, with a real human, rather than a corporation, this is the place. Whether it be flamenco, dance or yoga, you will always feel like you are at home while you are practicing and learning.

  Response from Chestnut Street Studio

  Jesse, thank you so much for your wonderful review! You are always at home here and we look forward to seeing you again very soon. We appreciate you taking time out to show us your support.

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  Kathryn Sullivan

  Google

  · 6mo ago· 3 reviews

  I've been practicing yoga with Melinda for 3 years now. She is a clear, patient, and kind teacher. I come out of every session feeling rejuvenated mentally, spiritually, and physically. I highly recommend her class!

  Response from Chestnut Street Studio

  Kathryn, Thank you so much for this lovely review. We're happy that your experience with our yoga classes in New Haven has been so positive, and we are thrilled to have you as a long-time member of our movement community. See you soon!

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  Maxwell Reichert

  Google

  · 1y ago· 2 reviews

  From the moment you step into her studio, you feel like you’ve entered a little oasis of calm right in the heart of New Haven. Melinda’s teaching style is warm, encouraging, and deeply rooted in her knowledge of both yoga and mindfulness. She has this amazing ability to make everyone feel welcome, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned yogi. What makes this even more special is how much a space like this means to Wooster Square. In a neighborhood that’s bustling with life (and incredible pizza, of course!), having a sanctuary like this brings a sense of peace and connection to the community. It’s a reminder to slow down and take care of ourselves amidst the chaos.

  Response from Chestnut Street Studio

  Thank you from the deepest place in our hearts for this beautiful review!