Today we’d like to introduce you to Jari Majewski Price
Hi Jari, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My name is Jari Majewski Price, and I am the co-founder and CEO of Feel the Beat, a Colorado-based nonprofit and dance studio dedicated to creating dance and music accessibility for all, including those who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and individuals both with and without Disabilities.
My journey with Feel the Beat began in 2016 when my co-founder, Julia, and I were teaching in a multiple-needs classroom. We noticed something remarkable: our students’ motivation and engagement soared when accessible music and dance activities were incorporated into their lessons. This experience opened our eyes to the transformative power of dance and music, but it also highlighted a critical gap—there were very few accessible programs for students with differing abilities, or those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
Recognizing the need for more inclusive opportunities, we decided to create our own solution. Partnering with engineers, we pioneered a vibrotactile dance floor (based on bone conduction technology) that allows individuals to experience music through feeling rather than hearing. This innovation was a game-changer, transforming music from a purely auditory experience into one that could be felt through the body.
In 2017, we officially founded Feel the Beat as a nonprofit and dance studio dedicated to making dance and music accessible for everyone. Today, our vibrotactile dance floor technology and inclusive curriculum serves over 6,000 students across Colorado and beyond, but we know this is only the beginning. We’re committed to expanding and reaching even more communities, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can experience the joy and freedom of dance.
It’s been an incredibly fulfilling journey, and I’m so proud of how far we’ve come, building a space where everyone is celebrated and empowered through the arts.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Being a leader in the nonprofit world is incredibly rewarding, but it’s certainly not without its challenges. As the founder and CEO of Feel the Beat, I have always been driven by a big vision—expanding the reach of our mission to make dance and music accessible to everyone, regardless of ability. However, the road hasn’t always been smooth. There have been moments when I wasn’t sure what the future held for Feel the Beat.
One of the most significant setbacks we faced was during the pandemic in 2020. Like many organizations, we had to make some difficult decisions, one of which was leaving our original studio location in Wheat Ridge, CO. The lockdowns meant we couldn’t host in-person classes, and as we began searching for a new studio, nothing seemed like the right fit. It was a disheartening time for me and my team, as we felt unsure about how we could continue to serve our community.
However, in 2021, a new opportunity emerged when we connected with the City of Lakewood. This led to us installing our unique vibrotactile dance floor at the Charles Whitlock Recreation Center. In May 2022, we officially launched our new home, which was a pivotal moment for Feel the Beat. Since then, we’ve continued to grow, installing our dance floors at Brewability Lab in Englewood and Colorado Movement Lab in Westminster, extending our reach in exciting ways.
While expanding beyond Colorado remains a huge goal, it’s not without its challenges. We envision installing our dance floors in more schools, studios, and event spaces, and eventually opening additional Feel the Beat studios across the U.S. Though the journey has its obstacles, our passion for creating inclusive spaces where music and dance are accessible to all continues to drive us forward. I believe we can accomplish anything we set our minds to, and I’m confident that the impact we’re making will only grow from here.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As the founder and CEO of Feel the Beat, my work goes beyond dance instruction—I’m deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces where everyone, regardless of age, ability, or skill level, can experience the transformative power of dance and music. My background as a dancer and educator in Deaf Education has shaped my approach, blending the artistic and technical aspects of dance with a passion for community building. I’m driven by a mission to make the inaccessible accessible, especially in underserved communities.
What sets Feel the Beat apart is not only the groundbreaking technology we’ve pioneered but also our holistic approach. We’re not just teaching dance; we’re building a community where every person is celebrated and empowered, regardless of their abilities. We’re creating accessible dance spaces in studios, schools, and event complexes, and expanding our mission to bring inclusive opportunities to even more communities.
As a leader, I am both a dreamer and a doer—someone who sees challenges as opportunities for growth. Whether it’s collaborating with engineers to design our dance floors or connecting with community leaders to expand our reach, I approach every aspect of my work with heart and soul. I believe everyone deserves the chance to express themselves through the arts, and I’m proud to lead an organization that is turning that vision into reality.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something that might surprise people who know me or my work with Feel the Beat is my love for water sports! Whether it’s white-water rafting or scuba diving, I’m always up for an adventure on or under the water. In 2019, I took my first dive when I visited Belize, and it was an unforgettable experience exploring The Great Blue Hole—a massive marine sinkhole off the coast. It was exhilarating and gave me a deep appreciation for the beauty and serenity of the underwater world. When I’m not on the dance floor, you might just find me chasing my next water adventure!
Pricing:
- Feel the Beat offers weekly classes with drop-in rates starting at $22 per class. However, we also offer scholarships and package pricing for those who purchase dance punch cards.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.feelthebeat.dance/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feel_the_beat_dance
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dancestudiofeelthebeat
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FeeltheBeat_keepthebeat
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@feelthebeat_dance_studio
Image Credits
Andrews Artistry (https://andrewsartistry.com/)
