TAHYA, who has been teaching and performing dance traditions steeped in antiquity since 1977, lectures on the art history and/or health benefits of Middle Eastern dance. Her lectures, workshops and weekly classes provide an introduction to traditional rhythms and movement from North Africa and the Mediterranean in combination with Indian, Balinese and Javanese classical and ritual dance.

In addition to classes offered at Northampton Community College, she guest lectures at collegiate and community venues overviewing the contributions/influences of Middle and Far Eastern cultures on Modern American dance. Most recent accomplishments include the Tahya Meditations CDs (Vol. I and Vol. II) and Healing Dance DVD, introducing Danse Orientale for healing, joy and vitality.

Her dance and drum classes for children, young people and adults, awaken inner creativity while emphasizing music and dance as a window on the unique cultures of the Middle East. TAHYA concerts, lectures, and workshops build cultural awareness and dance appreciation, replacing misconceptions with informed concepts and boosting a respect for this art form steeped in antiquity.

Dedicated study with masters of middle and far eastern dance have resulted in the creation of a cultural form representing traditional dance as well as maintaining the dance spirit in new pieces of choreography. Tahya has directed Troupe Bannat Tahya in local performances for Lehigh University's Cultural Affairs, Mayfair Festival of the Arts and Bethlehem's Musikfest.

Tahya World Drums & Dance participatory arts-education programs. Her teaching has also reached international heights working in collaboration with artists in California, Maui, and Edinburgh, Scotland. For more biographical information, please see Biography.

"Tahya ... is a true artist as well as a gifted communicator."

- David Amram, internationally-acclaimed composer/conductor/multi-instrumentalist.

"Tahya is professional, knowledgeable, and she easily and effectively communicates her subject matter to all types of learners. Both her passion for and knowledge of the dances and music permeate her instruction. She infuses historical material with visual aids including video excerpts, pictures and herself as a model. I strongly recommend Tahya as a master teacher."

- Karen Dearborn, Associate Professor, Muhlenberg College, Allentown, PA

"Tahya adds to the breadth of what it is to be a successful and assertive woman today. She leads us to expand our confidence in our femininity, our sensuality, and to deepen our spirituality and inner sense of ourselves. Tahya models how to bring together mind, body and spirit."

- Annette Carpien, Rich Journey Coach

"After observing the profound 'healing' taking place with Tahya's students who are Cancer survivors, I was instantly moved and realized the urgency to spread the word to therapeutic communities at large. Without reservation I endorse Tahya's work as a beautiful, effective complement to any traditional therapy model."

- Lori Cotler, MA, CMT, Professor of Music Therapy, New School University, NYC

"Tahya makes the movements accessible to everyone in the group plus her commitment to the subject matter really shows. At the end of class my body felt great."

- MoonEagle Arndt, MA, Expressive Arts Therapist & Mental Health Administrator