Tango Argentino

What is the course about?

This course is about learning Tango Argentino's fundamentals. Each class will both introduce and revisit the essential technique of walking in partnership, including short sequences of steps. Elements of functional alignment in motion, tango musical rhythms and social dancing etiquette will also be covered.

What will we cover?

We will cover different elements of Tango Argentino technique and vocabulary including:

- Functional alignment and body awareness
- Tango steps (forward, back and side steps developing into ochos and giros/moulinete; sweeps, parada)
- Walking in cross and parallel systems with a partner
- Different Tango rhythms
- Footwork drills
- Connecting with the partner for playful improvisation
- Leading and following (you have the option to choose one or explore both)
- Some sequences
- Dancing anticlockwise as required during social dancing.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

Demonstrate the ability to lead or follow (or both!) your partner in basic sequences
Perform tango steps with confidence
Recognise different tango music
Navigate anticlock-wise amongst other couples.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The course is suitable for both beginners and those with some prior experience. Some experience of Tango or social partner dance is useful but not essential.

Each class will cover the topics listed above with many different variations to keep you engaged and challenged. The tutor may divide the group to suit beginners and improvers. In any dance class there will be students of all levels and abilities. We all have different learning techniques and paces. If your first class seems overwhelming and you can’t get it the first time, don’t worry: dance is heavily reliant on repetition so it will happen. We want you to learn and to have fun so just give it your best and keep coming back!

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

These are gentle-paced classes and the tutor will present material through demonstration and explanation. You will be able to work independently on your own and with your partner. The tutor will offer exercises and themes to be practised and explored at your own pace.
During the class you will be given an opportunity to demonstrate the work and receive verbal feedback from your tutor and the group. Discussions and feedbacks are welcome as they are a valuable part of the learning. We encourage you to work in your own time to perfect the work but there is no formal requirement to do so.

HEALTH CHECK
You may or may not be asked to participate in rigorous activity from time to time. Please consider whether you could do this, if you are in any doubt consult a medical practitioner.

As part of the course content, your tutor may record your image for initial and ongoing assessment purposes. You are entitled to decline to participate in the recording of your image.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Shoes:
If you have some general dance shoes, please bring them to the class. You do not need to buy Tango shoes prior to the course, however if you wish to buy them during, all the advice will be available.

No stilettos, sandals, platforms, boots or trainers. If you do not have appropriate shoes you can work in socks which is perfectly good for the class environment but not for social dancing occasions.

Clothes:
The main thing is that your clothes allow for the Tango movements to be practiced and allow the movement to be visible to the teacher, therefore easy to correct.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Ask the tutor about what to do next or or try one of our many other dance courses.