Tango is easy to learn, and you don't need any previous dance experience. Our Tango lessons are very friendly and relaxed. You will have fun and learn the essential skills to enjoy this remarkable dance.
You don't have to come with a partner. During the lessons we change dance partners frequently, because dancing with different people during the class will help you to learn faster. It's also good preparation for dance events, where it is normal that you will dance with several partners. Everyone is learning together so it can be good fun too!
Don't worry if you can't attend every lesson. Lessons start with a short introduction and warm-up and a recap of what we learnt last week before we explain the key elements of the lesson. Each lesson builds on the previous week. We always take things steadily so that nobody is left behind and everyone enjoys themselves! Towards the end of the class we will give you ideas for things to practice at home ready for the next lesson.
After the lessons there is often a general practice time (called a "practica") when more experienced dancers can join us. We encourage you to practice with many people of different levels of experience.
In the lessons and practice time we play some traditional Tango music and also more modern tracks; in fact, anything that is catchy and easy to dance Tango to.
Which lessons are the right ones for me?
Our beginners lessons include the principles of the Tango embrace, posture & balance, leading & following. You will learn the Tango style of walking, cross steps, forward & backward Ochos, and improvising a dance to different types of Tango music.
If you are comfortable with these elements, then following lessons will introduce you to the Giro (circular movements), some followers' decoration steps, and movements such as Barridas (sweeping movements), and Paradas (stylish stops). You will also learn about Tango Milonga & Tango Vals.
Tango is a beautiful improvised dance, and we help you to enjoy Tango by exploring the fascinating different possibilities and combinations of movements. That's why we don't teach you sequences of steps.
If you are not sure which level is best for you then please ask us, and we will be very happy to make sure that you get the best value from the lessons.
What should I wear?
The lessons are informal and relaxed, so wear comfortable casual clothes. We advise against turn-ups on trousers, as it has been known for a ladies shoe heel to become caught!
A good choice of shoes can make a big difference. We advise ladies to choose a style with a small heel, leather sole, ankle straps, and an enclosed toe for comfort. Smooth soles will help you to pivot easily.
The best choice for men is smooth (ideally leather) soled shoes that are close fitting around the front of the foot.
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