Introducing myself and my journal

About Me:
Julia L. Gutiérrez-Rivera was weaned as a child on Bomba/Plena, receiving formal training as a part of LP21‟s Children's Workshops' Pioneer Class. She is now recognized as one of NYC's premier Bomba & Plena dancers. Throughout her childhood, Julia has been taught by many of NY's Bomba &Plena luminaries, including founding LP21 members. Over the years, she continued to develop her art, integrating diverse regional & generational influences in her dance as a performer and teaching artist with Los Pleneros de la 21, Alma Moyo, Bámbula and The Legacy Women. Julia’s dance classes are highly regarded, as she guides participants at all stages of their development through comprehensive and fun exercises to strengthen each dancer’s own voice within the music. She has offered classes and performed for thousands people of all ages and backgrounds throughout the world.

As LP21’s Program Director and main dance instructor, she has been pivotal in developing and enhancing their local programs and in revitalizing the group’s artistic endeavors and touring. Since 2003, she has taught dance to hundreds of all ages and backgrounds in and out of schools with LP21, Alma Moyo, La Tribu, and Ballet Hispánico. As an emerging cultural leader, Julia bridges her passion for dance, music and culture with community and arts advocacy as a consultant for community/grassroots groups and artists, including the Association of Hispanic Arts, Hostos Center for Arts & Culture, among others. She has an M.S. in Nonprofit Management from Milano, the New School in Nonprofit Management and Urban Policy

My Passions:
Arts, Culture, Traditions, Dance, Music, Community Expressions, Youth Empowerment

My Challenges:
Succession, (re)exploration and (re)learning of traditions in a global and transient world

My Vision for the Future:
sustainability, integrity, pride and balance

My Areas of Expertise:
Dance, Nonprofit administration, Arts Education (community learning)