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The fundamentals of argentine tango The three main pillars of argentine tango technique are: P1- Posture P2- Grounding P3- Spiral Posture in itself is composed of three essential aspects: a- Breathing b- Centering c- Alignment Summing up the two previous lists, we can logically derive five fundamentals on which to build a sound dancing technique: F1- Breathing F2- Centering F3- Alignment F4- Grounding F5- Spiral Any technical problems that might be encountered in tango are direct consequences of ignoring and/or poorly assimilating any of those five fundamentals. To become conversant with them should be the main priority of any serious tango student.
At an advanced level,
being perfectly grounded and centered will solve any
remaining
balance issues.
To be grounded allows one to master traction and propulsion and add dynamic expression to his vocabulary. Energy can be equally mastered by summoning the spiral. The spiral, among things, allows one to build inner pressure, and the grounding combined with appropriate frame work opens the realm of dynamic expression through compression and elasticity ("rebotes"). Mastering the axis is paramount, and to be in full command of it will allow the dance student to experiment with off-axis special techniques ("colgadas" and "volcadas"). Above all, a trained dancer would not omit to continuously develop his sense of musicality.
Musicality manifests itself in the capacity to correlate in a meaningful way musical
phrases with proper sequences of steps and movements.
A musical leader should be able to improvise spontaneous choreographies
and his follower would be carrying on, beautifying his suggestions and adding inspired
embellishments.
Dancers of both roles will equally acquire good
kinesthetic and proprioception capabilities.
Leaders must always include their followers in their proprioception
awareness.
Leaders think for two and dance the axis of the follower. The follower does not dance alone and constantly relate to the center of the leader. Dancing argentine tango at a high level requires a considerable investment in time and effort.
However, it is not necessary to achieve this level to experience magical tango moments.
Virtuosity has to be distinguished from expression and the joy of
dancing tango will accompany you into your
late years.
What you really have to acquire is a sound knowledge of the big
five fundamentals.
Quality is paramount. To cut corners is not desirable.
It is highly advisable to work in private with a good instructor
especially at the beginning.
Please bear in mind that the essential aspects of the dance are learned through feeling the
right sensations and the proper exchange of energy. This is best achieved working one
on one.
Further reading: Docteur Gradus ad Parnassum Good luck! |
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