Ian J. DaSilva is a dance educator, choreographer, musician and performing artist based in New York City. A proud Brooklyn native, Ian began his formal training in the arts at the esteemed Bernice Johnson’s Cultural Arts Center. His early development was further cultivated through rigorous training at prominent institutions including Ballet Tech, The Dance Theatre of Harlem and other training programs, where he honed his technique and deepened his artistic voice.

In 2007, Ian was recognized as a YoungARTS Winner in Dance, a national distinction awarded by the National YoungArts Foundation to emerging young artists. Since then, his performance career has spanned national and international stages, allowing him to collaborate with a wide range of choreographers and companies across diverse genres.

Ian holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music Technology from the Stevens Institute of Technology, where his interdisciplinary studies enriched his understanding of sound design and production as it relates to movement and performance. He later earned a Master’s Degree in Dance Education from New York University. This academic foundation informs his holistic approach to both choreography and teaching, combining artistic rigor with educational theory and innovation.

A passionate educator, Ian has dedicated his career to nurturing the next generation of artists. He previously served on the dance faculty at Brooklyn High School of the Arts, where he contributed to curriculum development and student mentorship. He is currently a member of the faculty at Frank Sinatra School of the Arts, continuing his commitment to arts education within New York City’s public school system.

Ian’s choreographic and artistic work has been presented at a wide array of prestigious venues and festivals. His choreography and performances have been featured at the Manhattan Movement & Arts Center, the Spoleto Festival, Earl Mosley’s Institute of the Arts, Bryant Park Dance Festival, MOVE|NYC|, SoundXpressed Dance Company, Eden Arts Dance Theater, Dance Grenada Festival, the Kampala National Theater, the Alvin Ailey Citigroup Theater, The Kings Theatre, and The Tony Bennett Concert Hall, among others. His work is known for its dynamic physicality, musical sensitivity, and thoughtful exploration of cultural narratives.

With a career that bridges performance, choreography, music, and education, Ian J. DaSilva continues to be a vital contributor to the dance community—committed to excellence, equity, and the transformative power of the arts. He is excited to create, share, and cultivate a relationship with the Hofstra University Dance Department.