For many local families, dance studios become more than just places to learn choreography – they become second homes. That’s exactly the kind of environment Jamz Dance Studio has built over the years in Pasadena, and now, under new owner and director Giana Krieger, the studio is stepping confidently into an exciting new era.
Located in Long Point Mall at 4730 Mountain Road, Jamz Dance Studio has long been known as a place where dancers grow not only in skill, but also in confidence, discipline, and friendship. Since officially taking ownership in July 2025, Krieger has been focused on honoring that legacy while bringing fresh energy, new opportunities, and a strong vision for the future.
“Jamz is about so much more than dance,” Krieger said. “We are a studio built on passion, growth, teamwork, confidence, and community.”
For Krieger, dance has shaped nearly every part of her life. Growing up in Sparrows Point, Maryland, she spent her childhood immersed in rehearsals, competitions, performances, and the close-knit relationships that naturally form within the dance world.
“Dance gave me structure, lifelong friendships, and a place where I always felt like myself,” she shared. “It taught me dedication from a young age and became such an important outlet for expression and growth.”
Over time, what began as a childhood passion evolved into a career centered around teaching, choreographing, mentoring, and inspiring young dancers. Krieger spent years working within the competitive dance world before eventually joining Jamz as an instructor one night a week – a role that would ultimately change the direction of her career.
“From the beginning, I immediately connected with the dancers and families that made Jamz so special,” she said.
As her involvement at the studio grew, so did her connection to the Jamz community. She eventually transitioned into the role of director before the opportunity to purchase the studio presented itself.
“When the previous owners began considering selling the studio, it honestly felt like everything aligned at the right time,” Krieger explained. “I already cared so deeply about the dancers and families, and I knew in my heart that stepping into ownership was the right move for me.”
Taking over a beloved community studio came with both excitement and responsibility. Krieger described the transition as emotional, rewarding, and motivating all at once.
“One of the biggest challenges was balancing change while maintaining stability for the dancers and families,” she said. “I wanted everyone to feel excited and supported throughout the transition while also introducing new ideas and goals for the future.”
That careful balance appears to be paying off. Since taking ownership, Krieger says the response from families has been overwhelmingly positive, and the studio continues to grow both recreationally and competitively.
Today, Jamz welcomes dancers of all ages and skill levels – from beginners taking their very first class to experienced competitive dancers pursuing advanced training. The studio currently employs approximately 16 instructors with diverse backgrounds and specialties, all united by the same mission: helping dancers grow both on and off the stage.
In addition to traditional dance classes, Jamz also offers bungee fitness classes for adults and plans to continue expanding adult programming in the near future.
What truly sets Jamz apart, according to Krieger, is the atmosphere.
“The family atmosphere truly sets Jamz apart,” she said. “We want every dancer to feel valued, encouraged, and part of something special from the moment they walk through the doors.”
That sense of connection is something many Pasadena families are drawn to. Inside the studio, dancers cheer each other on, parents support one another, and instructors work together to create a positive environment where every student feels seen and supported.
“We focus not only on building strong dancers, but also confident, kind, and hardworking people,” Krieger said.
Looking ahead, Krieger has ambitious plans for the future of Jamz. The studio is continuing to expand its summer camps, intensives, specialty technique classes, and performance opportunities while introducing guest instructors and fresh choreography throughout the year.
She hopes Jamz will continue growing into a place where every dancer – whether recreational or competitive – can find confidence, friendship, and a love for dance.
“My goal is for Jamz to be a place where dancers can discover their confidence, build friendships, and truly love the experience of dancing,” she said.
Perhaps most importantly, Krieger hopes the lessons dancers learn inside the studio extend far beyond the stage.
“I want Jamz to be remembered as more than just a dance studio,” she said. “I want it to be a place where dancers feel safe, supported, inspired, and truly seen.”
As Jamz Dance Studio enters this new chapter, it’s clear that the studio’s future is rooted in something bigger than trophies or technique. Under Krieger’s leadership, Jamz is continuing to build a culture centered around community, encouragement, hard work, and belonging – values that resonate deeply with Pasadena families.
And for Krieger, the most rewarding part so far has been watching the studio community come together with a shared vision for what Jamz can become.
“There’s been such an incredible amount of support, teamwork, and dedication from everyone involved,” she said. “Seeing Jamz become such a strong, supportive, and motivated community has truly been one of my proudest accomplishments as an owner.”
Jamz Dance Studio is located at 4730 Mountain Road, Suite 3 in Pasadena’s Long Point Mall. A full schedule of summer dance classes and camps, along with registration information, can be found at www.jamzdancestudio.com.
1 Comment
Jamz has such a welcoming environment! From the dancers to the staff, the feeling of community never ceases to amaze me. There is truly something amazing about the family at Jamz!