Mentor
Tess began dancing at the age of five and quickly discovered a deep passion for the art form. She trained extensively throughout New Jersey and Philadelphia, immersing herself in a variety of disciplines—from Ballet Intensives and modern/contemporary technique in Philadelphia to competitive dance teams in South Jersey.
In high school, Tess was a four-year varsity dancer and served as captain of her nationally and internationally recognized dance team. After graduation, she attended Rutgers University, where she pursued a degree in Mechanical Engineering while continuing her dance journey with a student-run company. There, Tess choreographed her first piece and fell in love with the creative and instructional side of dance.
Tess later relocated to Montana, where she trained competitive dancers ages 5–18 in contemporary, jazz, ballet, hip hop, and strength and conditioning. Her passion for movement extended beyond the studio as she also taught yoga, indoor cycling, and worked as a personal trainer—combining all of her skills to create a well-rounded, safe, and effective training experience for her students.
Tess is thrilled to be back on the East Coast and is so excited to bring her knowledge, creativity, and energy to the ZZ DANCE community!
What is your favorite dance movie?
Step Up for sure!
What is your favorite style of dance?
I love to perform contemporary but love to teach jazz!
What is your best dance memory?
My best dance memory was when the music cut out mid-performance at our High School’s basketball game halftime show, but luckily it was a Britney Spears song, so the crowd sang and clapped with us while we continued to dance, like a true High School Musical moment.
What are you most looking forward to at ZZ DANCE?
I am most looking forward to meeting new students and getting to learn their favorite styles, moves, and backstage rituals!
