INSTRUCTORS
The magic of Escola de Samba Melbourne lies in the passion and dedication of our instructor team. With extensive training and performance experience, including parading in Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Carnaval, our instructors bring a wealth of knowledge and authenticity to their teaching.
Committed to preserving the culture and traditions of Brazilian dance, they create an inspiring environment where students can connect, grow, and embrace the true essence of Brazilian Dance.
Siobhan Ion
Director & Samba Instructor
Siobhan's passion for dance began at six with ballet, but samba truly captured her heart. She immersed herself in Brazil’s Carnival, training extensively and performing with Unidos de Bangu. As a leader at Escola de Samba Melbourne, she builds community through dance, inspiring others with her energy. Siobhan also balances roles in fitness and as CEO of 1R Australia, sharing her love for movement.
Carly Savona
Samba Instructor
Carly is a professionally trained dancer with 15 years of experience in various styles. A dedicated Samba performer, she trained with Escola de Samba Sydney and performed internationally. Now in Melbourne, Carly fosters the local Samba community while deepening her cultural connection. She also empowers clients as a Pilates instructor.
Allyjana Marie Angeles
Samba Instructor
Marie is a professional Samba dancer in Melbourne with a deep love for Brazilian culture. Winner of the 2022 Australasian Samba Queen (semi-pro category), she has trained in Australia and Brazil. Dedicated to growing Australia’s Samba community, she brings vibrant energy and cultural connection to her classes.
Seline Erdal
Samba Instructor
Seline is a dedicated Samba instructor blending her passion for Brazilian rhythms with strong technique. She has trained extensively, including in Rio, and performed as a Passista in Rio Carnaval 2023. Her classes focus on mastering the basics and fostering self-expression. Seline inspires students to honour samba's rich cultural heritage.
Bernadette O'farrell
Samba Instructor
Bernadette discovered samba in 2021 and trained online with Escola de Samba Sydney. In 2023, she performed at Rio’s Carnaval with Unidos de Bangu, embracing samba’s culture. She has danced with various Melbourne groups and festivals. Bernadette teaches samba to inspire connection and honour its rich cultural heritage.
Clau Aparicio
Funk Instructor
Clau, a choreographer, dancer, and Pilates instructor from Bolivia, holds a degree in Dance Theatre. Passionate about Brazilian Funk, she was runner-up in the 2024 Australian Twerk Championship. A career highlight includes choreographing the 2018 South America Games ceremonies. Claudia brings her love for movement to every performance.
Denise Kayan
Samba Instructor
Denise is one of Australia’s most accomplished Samba dancers with international recognition. She is Rainha de Bateria for Bloco 3K and Director of Dance for Unidos da Cacatua. A Passista with Vila Isabel since 2020, Denise has performed in Rio and been featured in G1 Globo and Meia Hora magazine