WALTZ | VIENNESE WALTZ | FOXTROT | TANGO | ROCK 'n ROLL | SWING | HUSTLE
Tango
A sensual ballroom dance that originated in South America in the early twentieth century.
The Tango is one of the most beautiful of all the dances. It is characterized by earthy and dramatic movements. In order to achieve the distinctive style of Tango, it is important to develop controlled staccato footwork along with fluid graceful movements. The unique rhythm of the music is great training for timing and phrasing which develops as the dancer becomes more proficient. Tango practice is essential towards becoming a good dancer. Tango music is usually written in 2/4 or 4/4 timing. The first teaching rhythm in tango is slow, slow, quick, quick, slow.
Characteristics
The hold in Tango is more compact than in other moving dances. The walk in Tango differs from walks in other dances in that it is a staccato action obtained by delaying the follow through of the free leg and foot.
Teaching Elements
Tango Basics – Work on level progression
Dance Positions – Closed position for better lead and follow
Amalgamations – Link patterns easily for smooth transitions
Control – Learn to control momentum
Variety (Interrelation) – Build vocabulary of patterns for style, movement & adaptation
Footwork – Develop foot coordination.
Flares and Fans are exercises of balance in rotation