We know before you start your tango journey you will have questions, we hope these help!
What is Argentine tango?
Argentine tango is a social dance which is entirely improvised. The leader creates the steps in the moment and the follower tunes in to the movements to follow them. It is known for the beautiful magical connection it creates in the couple. Of course, in order to improvise you first need the language. This is what we teach in the fundamentals classes and then we encourage you to improvise using the language you have.
Where does Argentine tango originate from?
Argentine tango originated in 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, along with the socio-economic situation at the time (and a population of far more men than women) created an environment where tango was born. There is obviously a lot more detail and history than this, but this is the quick answer!
What’s the difference between Argentine tango and tango?
In the UK, ‘tango’ often 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 and is choreographed. By contrast, Argentine tango is a non-competitive, social dance. The two dances have a very different look and feel: a distinct embrace, style, music and philosophy! In Argentina, the notion that ballroom tango is called “tango” is met with surprise and incredulity. For Argentinians, and other aficionados around the world, “tango” refers only to Argentine tango!
Why are we called ‘Tango y Nada Mas’
Go to our about us page to find out!
Will I learn something similar to what I see on ‘Strictly’?
No. Not really. Strictly come dancing is choreographed and flamboyant. It is more similar to the Tango you will see on stage shows, following a story and movements which require physical ability. In Argentine tango you do not need to be a ballet dancer, a contemporary dancer, a gymnast or have any previous dance experience. Anyone can learn to dance at any age. We also only dance to Argentine Tango music, a beautiful world in itself. Don’t worry, it is as beautiful (truthfully, far more beautiful) as what you see on Strictly.
Can anyone join or do I need dance experience?
Anyone can join the Fundamentals class with no dance experience
Is tango difficult to learn?
Well… it would be a lie to say it is easy, but it is full of beauty even at the beginning. The difficulty comes because it is improvised and you need to learn a fair bit of technique and movements to develop a language in order to be able to improvise. We prioritise the music and musicality in our classes which can be hard, but will allow you to improvise more freely as you develop.
How long will it take me to learn Argentine tango?
How long is a piece of string? Everyone is different and there is no exact answer to this question. We don’t teach to a schedule as every student is different and learns at their own pace. Tango is a difficult dance but also full of pleasure from the beginning. The journey is the wonderful thing not the destination. We never really arrive there, none of us, and this is not a negative thing it is beautiful and amazing that we continue on our journey, always adapting and learning. However, at the beginning we know people are searching for certainties and answers and we could say that a follower might be able to go out and dance socially in about 6 months, whereas a leader might take around a year. There are ‘Practicas’ though to bridge the gap between the ‘Milonga’ and the class.
I already dance a little bit of tango, what class should I join?
Every teacher and school is a little different. It’s always a good idea to try the fundamentals class first to experience our way of teaching which will be different to other schools. If you have been dancing for more than a year then you could try the Intermediate class but again we always recommend the fundamentals at the beginning as our teaching style is different to other schools.
I already dance other dance styles, can I skip the fundamentals/beginners tango classes?
We always recommend that you start at the beginning as tango is a unique art form different from other dance styles. Getting the fundamentals in tango is vital in order to move on to the more advanced levels with confidence.
How long will it take me to learn tango?
How long is a piece of string? Everyone is different and there is no exact answer to this question. We don’t teach to a schedule as every student is different and learns at their own pace. Tango is a difficult dance but also full of pleasure from the beginning. The journey is the wonderful thing not the destination. We never really arrive there, non of us, and this is not a negative thing it is beautiful and amazing that we continue on our journey, always adapting and learning. However, at the beginning we know people are searching for certainties and answers, we could say that a follower might be able to go out and dance socially in about six months, whereas a leader might take around a year. There are ‘Practicas’ though to bridge the gap between the ‘Milonga’ and the class.
What do I need to wear to a tango lesson?
Nothing specific, but it is good to be comfortable. At the beginning women should be able to move their legs freely and wear shoes with a leather sole or something which allows you to pivot. Men should also wear non-restrictive clothing and a leather soled shoe is preferable to trainers.
Do I need special tango shoes?
Not at the beginning. Just shoes with a leather or slippery sole that allows you to pivot. It is a good idea if they are not too pointed or heavy as this impedes movement. For women you can wear heels as long as they are secure on your foot, with a strap for example. Trainers are not great. If you grow to love tango then there is a world of beautiful shoes awaiting!
Do I need a dance partner?
No. We change partners after every song, which is a great way to learn.
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 three rhythms in the tango family (Tango, Vals and Milonga): a playful, upbeat rhythm which gives rise to a dance which expresses this mood!