When Maura Garuccio steps onto the dance floor, she brings more than technique—she brings presence and passion. Born in Brindisi, Italy, and now firmly rooted in Cincinnati, Maura carries the elegance of the European ballroom dancing tradition, alongside the warmth and accessibility of a local teacher who loves to dance.
Italian born, internationally trained and globally recognized, Maura’s credentials are impressive. In 2012, she earned the prestigious title of Italian Champion in International Standard. More recently, she was named Top Female Teacher in the 2024 Global Dancesport Series. Despite her many accolades, Maura’s focus remains refreshingly humble and personal.
“My students range widely in both age and experience,” she says, “from young adults discovering dance for the first time to active seniors who want to stay connected to their bodies and community.”
Maura works with beginners, social dancers, competitive students and those returning to dance. Her students aren’t defined by skill level.
“Many of my students come to me looking for confidence, connection, personal growth or a meaningful hobby,” she explains. “Dance becomes the vehicle, but the transformation goes far beyond steps.”
Maura teaches a full range of ballroom and partner dance styles, including International Ballroom, International Latin and American style, including Smooth and Rhythm, Salsa and social dancing for weddings, events and personal enjoyment. She also offers competitive training for Pro/Am and amateur dancers, drawing on more than 15 years of professional experience and training under seven world champions.
“My background allows me to tailor the style and approach to each student’s goals,” says Maura, “whether that’s social confidence on the dance floor or high-level competition preparation.”
At the heart of her work is a teaching philosophy built on connection, clarity and confidence. In practice, that means meeting students exactly where they are.
“I believe everyone can dance when they feel safe, supported and understood,” Maura shares. “Dancing well starts with believing you belong on the floor.”
What Maura finds most rewarding isn’t trophies or titles—it’s transformation.
“The most rewarding moment is watching someone realize they are capable of more than they believed,” she says, “that moment when their posture changes, their face lights up and they stop apologizing for themselves. That’s powerful! Being part of that journey is incredibly meaningful to me,” she explains.
Maura’s studio is a place where mistakes are welcomed and growth is celebrated.
“Many people think ballroom dance is intimidating, elitist or only for people with ‘natural talent,’” she says. “My classes make dance accessible, modern and deeply personal. You don’t need perfection; you need willingness.”
When students leave her lessons, she hopes they carry more than choreography.
“I want my students to leave feeling stronger—not just physically, but emotionally,” she says. “Long after the music stops, I hope they remember how it felt to be fully present, connected and proud of themselves. If they walk a little taller and believe a little more in their own potential, then the lesson has truly done its job.”
Maura elevates the local dance scene by bringing in world-class coaches and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, she notes that dance lessons can be a memorable way to celebrate—whether for couples, friends or individuals looking to try something new.
“Dance, for me, is not just a profession—it’s a purpose,” Maura says with a grin. “Dance has the power to change lives and I am honored to be part of that process every day.”
Maura Garuccio | International Ballroom Academy | info@internationalballroomacademy.com | 513.401.2893 | InternationalBallroomAcademy.com