The Tango is one of the most beautiful of all the dances. It is characterized by earthy and dramatic movements.

History

The Tango began in the West Indies and found its way to Argentina where it was stylized by the Gauchos. It became the rage in 1921 after the silent screen star Rudolph Valentino brought this romantic dance to millions in “The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse”. More recently, it has been danced in movies such as True Lies and Scent of a Woman. Today, the Tango is considered the “dancers dance” and becomes a favorite of all who learn it.

Music

Tango music is usually written in 2/4 or 4/4 timing. The teaching rhythm in Tango is slow, slow, quick, quick, slow (S,S,Q,Q,S).

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.

Tango songs and artists include

Hernando’s Hideaway – from “The Pajama Game”
Whatever Lola Wants – from “Damn Yankees”
La Cumparista – Julio Iglesias
Por Una Cabeza – from “Scent of a Woman”