Arjay Biography

• Expressions in Art

Arjay Centeno expresses himself in many forms of art - dance, music, graphic art, photography, drawing, and poetry. Known primarily as a West Coast Swing dancer, Arjay competes, performs, teaches, choreographs and coaches in many styles of partner dancing, including International Standard and Latin Ballroom. Before dancing, however, Arjay was first and foremost a musician. He also has a portfolio of graphic designs that is a product of his Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Graphic Design. He is also a skilled photographer, and dabbles in illustrations and poetry.

• Music Background

Arjay has studied and played the violin for 17 years. He has competed as a soloist and won several Bay Area instrumental competitions. He has performed with different youth orchestras and served as Concert Master of his high school orchestra. He has toured Europe with the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra and played in some of world's most renowned concert halls. Through the SFSYO he has had an opportunity to meet such celebrities as Robin Williams, Linda Rondstat, Sarah Chang, and Midori. Arjay attributes most of his success in dance to this music background and training.

• Dance Background

Arjay discovered his dancing ability when he began dancing Hip Hop in High School, and teaching and choreographing dance production numbers. Arjay progressed to International Standard Ballroom and Latin when he joined his parents in their classes and lessons. Three months later, he began to compete in International Standard and Latin divisions with his Professional/Amateur partner, and teach and win First Places at progressively higher levels. After he met his girlfriend and dance partner, Melissa Rutz, they competed in Amateur divisions with much success.

• Present Day Achievements

A shared interest in West Coast Swing led Arjay and Melissa to compete in West Coast Swing events throughout the nation. They have quickly moved up the ranks and compete at the Champion levels in all major swing events. Both Arjay and Melissa have placed highly in many Champions and Invitational Jack and Jill and Strictly Swing competitions, and in many Classic routine divisions. Arjay and Melissa, both individually and jointly, compete, perform and teach at Swing events throughout the United States. Arjay currently teaches at the Two Left Feet dance studio in Danville, California.