YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Argentine Tango De-Mystified!
What is Argentine Tango?
Argentine tango is a social dance which is entirely improvised. It can be danced in a close or open embrace. The leader (usually the man) creates his steps in the moment and the follower (usually the woman) tunes in to his movements to follow him. It is known for the beautiful magical connection it creates between the couple.
What is the difference between Argentine Tango and Tango?
In the UK, tango usually refers to ballroom tango. Ballroom tango originated from Argentine tango, but took a very different direction. It forms part of the repertoire of ballroom dances and is danced for competition. By contrast, Argentine tango is a non-competitive, social dance. The two dances have a very different look and feel: a distinct hold, style, music and philosophy! In Argentina, the notion that ballroom tango is called “tango” is met with surprise and incredulity. For Argentinians, and other afficionados around the world, “tango” refers only to Argentine tango!
What is a Milonga?
Milonga has two meanings. It is the place where we go to dance tango – a social tango club. It is also one of the rhythms in the tango family: a playful, upbeat rhythm which gives rise to a dance which expresses this mood!
Where did Argentine Tango originate?
Argentine tango originated n the slums of Buenos Aires in the late 19th century at a time when a massive immigrant influx had thrown many different cultures together. The different musical and dance heritages of this immigrant population created an environment where tango was born.
Is Argentine Tango Ballroom or Latin?
Ballroom tango belongs to the ballroom repertoire. Because of its popularity, Argentine tango has in recent years been added to the Latin repertoire but most true tango lovers see Argentine tango as entirely separate to the international competition world. If you are serious about learning Argentine tango, we would strongly recommend studying with teachers who are not part of the Ballroom and Latin world and have dedicated themselves solely to Argentine tango.
Can I Dance Argentine Tango to Modern Music?
Argentine tango and its music were made for each other. The golden age of tango music was between 1935 and 1953. The music was specifically composed and performed for social tango dancers and as such is considered perfect for dancing tango. Argentine tango dancers love working with all the tiny variations within tango music and find it rich and rewarding to explore. However this is not to say tango cannot be danced with more modern music. Our prime objective should be to do what we enjoy!
WHERE CAN I LEARN ARGENTINE TANGO?
We are known as one of the best tango schools in the UK. Find your class ….
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