Kizomba, Urbankiz & Tarraxo Instructor in Amsterdam
International workshops • Movement Lab creator • Private lessons
About Phiiaz
The instructor behind the movement
Mahmoud Fayyaz
Known as Phiiaz
I'm Mahmoud Fayyaz — known in the Amsterdam dance community as Phiiaz. I've spent over 11 years immersed in African-influenced partner dances.
My focus is on three deeply connected dance styles: Kizomba, Urbankiz, and Tarraxo. Each has its own language — Kizomba's grounded connection, Urbankiz's contemporary flair, and Tarraxo's slow, meditative groove — and I love helping students discover what resonates with them personally.
My teaching philosophy is simple: I am a nerd when it comes to the details, In my prevous life as a software engineer I learned the importance of clean code and efficient algorithms, and I bring that same mindset to my dance teaching. I believe in breaking down complex movements into simple, understandable steps, and helping students build a strong foundation that they can use to develop their own unique style.
I run regular classes as Tarraxo Toolbox, intensives, and the Tarraxo Movement lab workshop series at Haven Amsterdam — one of the city's most vibrant cultural venues. My events bring together dancers of all levels in a warm, inclusive atmosphere where curiosity is always welcome.
Upcoming Events
Join me at these exciting dance events and workshops
Movement Lab Weekender 2026
Are You Ready to Experiment? If you want to mix TARRAXO chemicals, work on creative elements, and harvest the best results, then the Movement Lab is exactly where you need to be. It's time to refine your dance and build your skill structure. This is not just a weekend—it's an open space for technical mastery and creative growth. High-Level teaching from international masters, good vibes and a passionate community.
Tarraxo: Movement Lab 5
Ready to dive deep into Tarraxo? Join us for the next edition of Tarraxo Training: Movement Lab—a full afternoon of learning, dancing, and connecting with the Tarraxo community! Two intensive 1.5-hour workshops led by our passionate teacher team plus 3 hours of social practice to apply what you've learned. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up your skills, this is your chance to explore, train, and dance with a supportive, fun group.
Tarraxo Toolbox - April 2026
Your Tarraxo feels like guessing. This is your fix. TARRAXO TOOLBOX is a monthly series where we take one concept, break it apart, and drill it until it actually lives in your body — not just theory, but tools you can use on the floor the same night. Each week focuses on one core concept. We go deep on the why, then build multiple variations and applications so it sticks. Small group. Real reps. No fluff. Stay after for the free practice hour — bring what you learned straight to the floor while it's fresh. Open level. If you've danced Tarraxo before or you're curious and have some Kizomba or partner dance experience, you're welcome. We'll meet you where you are. Spots are limited to keep the group small and the quality high. April Toolbox: Week 1 (April 7) — Body Isolations in Partnerwork. Week 2 (April 14) — Acceleration & Contra-tempo. Week 3 (April 21) — Slow Motion Control & Deceleration. Week 4 (April 28) — Accents & Syncopations. Location: Haven Amsterdam – Hendrik van Wijnstraat 10.
Book a Private Lesson
Ready to take your dancing to the next level? Schedule a personalized one-on-one session tailored to your goals.
Personalized Training
Customized lessons focused on your specific needs and goals
Flexible Scheduling
Choose a time that works best for your schedule
Expert Guidance
Learn from an experienced international instructor
Questions? Email me at me@phiiaz.com
“Really like the safe space that you created for me and the level of depth in our conversation about the topics where I can achieve more growth. You di...”
“Really like the safe space that you created for me and the level of depth in our conversation about the topics where I can achieve more growth. You did that with sincere questions and you're open, energetisch & authentic personality. It felt safe to be vulnerable and that is something beautiful in a session and a must for real growth. You focus on me as a dancer and what I need as a person to get more confidence in my dancing. Your preparation was on point with the topics I indicated in advance of the session. I noticed that you put some work in the preparation, that really felt professional and that you take the session seriously. And there was a nice balance between conversation and dancing. Your feedback and tips are really helpful and dosed so that it is not overwhelming. They are practical, so that I can take them with me to practice more after the session. You have a positive and realistic approach. So I'm really grateful for the time and energy that you put in the session and al the feedback and your thoughts that I received from you, the beautiful conversations and the dances!!”
Tamara
Kizomba Private Lesson