El Taller Latino Americano — Local services in New York

After years of believing I could never learn a second language, several years ago I took courage and began to take Spanish language classes at El Taller. Whenever I could possibly manage it I have been attending classes there ever since. This is a truly extraordinary place filled with art, where community comes together and where Spanish is taught as a living language rather than a dry set of rote rules to be followed as many people including myself remember experiencing in High School, college, or possibly at another language school. From the first beginners class which my husband now participates in, to classes for more advanced learners, the dedicated, very warm, engaged and bright teachers here make sure that students are conversing with each other to become relaxed and happy speaking this beautiful rich language. Through discussions, reading, creative writing, poetry and singing songs, we learn to feel more and more at home not just speaking Spanish but actually thinking in it while learning more about Spanish speaking cultures and countries. At every step along the way, teachers are always encouraging our learning through positive feedback and helping each student become a part of the El Taller family. This is a very exciting and enriching process. I was so surprised recently to suddenly realize while walking in my neighborhood where Spanish is the primary language for so many of my neighbors, that I was beginning to automatically understand what was being said around me and when addressed, could often respond without hesitation. I can’t tell you how thrilling this was for me. I want to thank everyone at El Taller and especially Bernardo Palombo who created this teaching method, for giving me this joyful learning experience. Ginny and...

I wish I could write a review, but when I showed up for a class no one was there!

When I called to inquire about Spanish lessons, the receptionist suggested I sit in on a class to see how I liked the school. She was warm and friendly. She said class started at 6:30 on Tuesday. I gave her my name and told her I would be there.

On Tuesday, I showed up at 6:22. I rang the bell. No one answered. I waited outside until 6:30, rang again. No one answered the bell and NO ONE showed up for the class. I stayed until 6:35, rang again and then decided to leave. I called and left a message on their voicemail.

Two days later Adrian called and apologized and said class must have started a little late. When I called back he was gone for the day and the gentlemen who answered said there was no voicemail for Adrian. He took my name and number. My call was not returned.

Today I called again, Friday, March 18. No one answered the phone. I got a message to enter my 10 digit mailbox number.

This has been nothing but frustrating, unprofessional and completely unheard of that a school that is a 501(c)3 operates in...

I took a two week super intensive intermediate Spanish course at El Taller this summer and I recommend the school to all interested in learning and improving their Spanish language.

El Taller is a welcoming, unique and vibrant community of artists, students and people with diverse backgrounds. The classes focus on conversation and repetition, even using singing to learn the language! I found the classes always engaging, fun and exciting. They are really focused on teaching Spanish you can use in real life situations.

During class breaks we had the opportunity to meet and mingle with students from others classes (Beginner and English classes) as well as sample fresh treats, bread and coffee available to all.

El Taller was a home away from home for these two weeks this summer. I believe this is the best place for Spanish classes...