Let's face it, Argentine Tango is not an easy dance to learn. In the beginning it can be very frustrating. It takes time and diligence to become competent and a strong ego to deal with rejection. The better dancer you become, more people will seek you out to dance with you. You will also enjoy yourself more as your skill level increases. Not everyone goes into Tango, or … [Read more...]
Tango with Pablo and Adrian
Tango music can be very uplifting. Whenever I feel sad, frustrated or anxious, by listening to Tango music, I feel immediately better, and sometimes even joyous. This is especially true when its live music. There is something about the energy produced by the musicians into the instrument that reverberates into the heart and soul of the listener. One cannot help but to be pulled … [Read more...]
The Beginner’s Mind in Tango
Greetings for the New Year! A new year is a great time to renew or begin your passion for Argentine Tango. This post was first published in July of 2015, yet still provides great advice for Tango dancers of all levels. Shoshin (初心) is a concept in Zen Buddhism meaning "beginner's mind". It refers to having an attitude of openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions when … [Read more...]
Tango Inspiration and Creativity
When I was in college studying art we were asked to answer the question, “What is art?” Many of us gave the same answer, that art is meant to communicate. Although now, I think this is oversimplified. Art communicates but is also so much more. Art is a feeling, an expression, it's new, unique and inspiring. Dance is also art. And with any art form, one needs to become … [Read more...]
United We Tango
The other night at the milonga, a friend said to me, “dancing tango is what's keeping me sane”. I think we are all feeling that way... in desperate need to keep our sanity. Tango allows us to just to focus on the moment, connect with others and find joy. Tango does not care what language you speak, what god or gods you pray to your political beliefs. What matters is your … [Read more...]