Maru Montiel graduated as a "Dance Interpreter for Mexican Folkloric Dance" from the National Institute of Bellas Artes (INBA) in Mexico City, Mexico after studying ballet, folkloric, contemporary dance, choreography, and drama for six years. Montiel performed with INBA on a countrywide tour of Mexico.

Montiel's classical training and fluency with all Mexican folkloric regional dance styles makes her a dynamic choreographer/teacher. She is equally at ease teaching children or adult groups in a variety of community settings. Montiel is also a gifted performer and costume designer. She resides in Redmond with her husband Luis and their four young sons.