Mette Isaksen
Jazz Dance Teacher, Facilitator
& Dance-for-Health Specialist
Mette Isaksen (she/her) is a jazz dance teacher, facilitator and dance-for-health specialist with a passion for making dance accessible to everyone.
With over a decade of teaching experience, Mette works across jazz technique, improvisation, choreography and musical theatre dance, bringing an inclusive, energetic and creative approach to her classes.
She holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Dance Leadership and Community Practice from Trinity Laban Conservatoire, where she developed an inclusive approach to jazz dance teaching that celebrates the history, culture and artistry of the form. During her postgraduate training, she also specialised in dance for wellbeing, exploring the ways movement can support physical, emotional and social health.
Alongside her teaching at FieldWorks Dance, Mette delivers dance programmes in community settings and specialist charities, including Mind and Alzheimer's UK. Her work uses movement as a tool for connection, confidence, self-expression and healthy ageing.
Mette also continues to perform as part of the authentic jazz troupe Diamond Girls, maintaining a connection to the performance, musicality and communal spirit that underpin her approach to dance.
Mette's Approach to Dance & Teaching
At the heart of Mette's teaching is the belief that everybody has the right to move freely, creatively and confidently.
Her approach is inclusive, encouraging dancers to explore movement without fear of judgement or the pressure to get everything right. She believes dance should be enjoyable, expressive and available to people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities.
Drawing on her background in jazz, community dance and dance for health, Mette creates classes that balance technique and musicality with creativity, playfulness and individual expression.
Whether introducing someone to dance for the first time or helping an experienced dancer develop their technique, her aim is to create an environment where everyone feels welcome.
What Is Jazz Dance?
Jazz dance is an energetic and expressive dance style rooted in African American cultural traditions, with a rich history shaped by music, rhythm, improvisation and individual expression.
It brings together dynamic movement, musical interpretation, coordination and performance, drawing on a wide range of influences and styles.
In Mette's classes, dancers explore the foundations of jazz through technique, rhythm, improvisation and choreography, developing both their physical skills and their individual approach to movement.
The Benefits of Jazz Dance
Jazz offers much more than learning choreography. Through regular practice, dancers can develop:
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Musicality: Build a stronger relationship with rhythm, timing and musical interpretation.
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Coordination: Develop body awareness and the ability to move with greater precision.
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Strength and stamina: Improve physical strength, endurance and control.
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Creativity: Explore improvisation, individuality and personal expression.
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Confidence: Develop comfort and freedom in movement and performance.
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Connection: Experience the shared energy and community that make dance such a powerful social activity.
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Dance for Health & Wellbeing
Mette's work extends beyond the traditional dance studio. With specialist training in dance for wellbeing and experience delivering programmes with organisations including Mind and Alzheimer's UK, she is passionate about the role dance can play in supporting people's lives.
Dance can provide opportunities for social connection, creative expression, physical activity and improved confidence. Mette believes that movement should remain accessible throughout life, regardless of age, experience or physical ability.
Her approach places enjoyment, participation and individual expression at the centre of the experience.
Discover Jazz Dance at FieldWorks Dance
Join Mette at FieldWorks Dance in London Fields, Hackney, to explore jazz dance in an inclusive, welcoming and energetic environment.
Whether you're completely new to jazz, returning to dance or looking to develop your musicality and performance skills, Mette's classes offer an opportunity to learn, experiment and enjoy moving.
What is Intro to Broadway Jazz?
A fun, high-energy musical theatre jazz class designed for complete beginners.
Each class builds your confidence from the ground up. Start with a warm-up, learn individual jazz steps and techniques across the floor, then bring them together into a short routine set to inspiring music.
Explore rhythm, musicality and self-expression in a supportive, feel-good environment. No previous dance experience needed — everything is taught in the room, step by step.