Tango Class/Event FAQs
Why should I take tango lessons?
Because we're all looking for passion, excitement, and fun in our lives, and Argentine Tango is a great way to embrace that desire.
In addition, the dance offers a variety of other benefits, too. It's good exercise, it can be done year round, and is a great place to meet new friends (and to network).
Tango welcomes people of all ages and walks of life, and encourages friendly interaction with folks you probably wouldn't meet elsewhere.
Okay, but why should I take tango lessons from Wisconsin Tango?
Several reasons. The main one is that I want to help you find that outlet for the excitement and fun that you're looking for.
Other than a lot of dance experience, I'm a trained instructor who's been involved with teaching for most of his professional life. I make a conscious effort to present lesson material in a way that's fun and easy to understand, rather than making your head spin with technical mumbo jumbo that'll make your eyes glaze over.
All classes are planned and organized ahead of time, and tailored to the dynamic of each group.
And when it comes to dance technique, I don't just tell you where you're supposed to step- it's my goal to teach you about actual body awareness in a manner that doesn't overload your brain or make you feel like you're still at the office.
And as an instructor, I feel it is my responsibility, and great privilige, to make you feel welcome in the Madison dance community.
Where can I go to tango?
I host regular social events where you can enjoy your dancing.
Also, you can enjoy tango
in just about any major city on the face of the planet. Yes, you read that right! Planning a trip to Dallas? Berlin? Tokyo? Hong Kong? How about Auckland, New Zealand? All of those places have active tango communities and host tango dance events.
I heard tango is really difficult. Is that true?
Argentine Tango has a reputation for being exotic, mysterious, and inaccessible. But like any other physical activity, such as a sport or hobby, it's a skill that can be learned with regular practice.
I've never danced before and feel pretty clumsy. Is tango for me?
Yes! The ability to walk and the desire to learn are all that's needed to learn tango, even if you don't have experience with any other dances.
Tango is for anyone who wants to try, and my teaching method for beginners is designed to be fun, easy-to-follow, and to get you moving on the dance floor as quickly as possible.
I don't have the body of a dancer. Is tango for me?
Yes! Tango is for people of all shapes and sizes.
What's the difference between Argentine Tango and Ballroom Tango?
Ballroom Tango (either International or American) is more structured, and its steps are defined by an official governing body (mainly for competition purposes).
Argentine Tango exists without such a central authority. Argentine Tango arguably allows more improvisational flexibility in terms of musical interpretation, and puts more emphasis on leader/follower sensitivity.
Other big differences include posture, technique, and the step figures themselves.
How long will it take for me to be good at Argentine Tango?
There's no way to tell exactly how long it'll take for someone to become "good" at the dance. Inevitably, everyone will encounter steps that are more difficult or easy than others. In any case, the more you practice, the more comfortable you will be. But remember to be patient with yourself!
I just started learning Tango but am too shy to try it socially. Should I wait until I'm better?
No. Regardless of how much of a beginner you are, I highly recommend that you attend a milonga (tango party) or Tuesday night Salsa/Tango party as soon as you're able to lead (or follow) forward, side, and back steps.
Your first few social dancing experiences will probably be nerve-wracking, but everything you learn in class will make much more sense when you try it out for real on a dance floor. At dance socials hosted by Wisconsin Tango, I will be there to help!
Okay. I want to go to a Tango party but I'm afraid of making too many mistakes. Aren't mistakes bad?
Most of the time, they are not. Mistakes are an inevitable part of the learning process, and no one avoids them. Making a mistake in Tango shouldn't be taken the same way as making a mistake at your job or at school. As far as Tango is concerned, learning from your mistakes eventually makes you a better dancer.
I'm a leader who's worked up the courage to go social dancing, but don't know any fancy steps. Won't my partner get bored with me?
Probably not. As long as you're clear about what you do, and pay attention to the rhythm of the music, it'll feel good to dance with you even if you only know how to step forward, side, or back.
During the group classes, why do we keep rotating partners during exercises?
Tango is a social dance where you're supposed to dance with a bunch of different people. Rotating partners during class helps you get used to dancing with a variety of folks. After all, no two dancers lead or follow the same exact way.
If I want to take classes with Wisconsin Tango, will I need a partner?
No. You do not need a partner.
I signed up for a beginner group class but probably belong in the intermediate class. Can I switch?
Yes. You can switch class sections with the permission of the instructor without extra charge.
I missed the first class of a new session. May I still join?
Yes. But after the second class of a new session, a student wanting to join will have to wait until the beginning of the next session.
If you missed the first two classes, give me your email and I'll send you a reminder before the following 6-week session begins.
I signed up and paid for a 6-week class but realize I won't be able to start because of unexpected changes in my schedule. Can I apply the payment to the following session?
Yes.
Do you offer group private lessons?
Yes. The minimum number is 4 people. For 4-9 people, the price $15 per person. For groups larger than 10 people, the price is $10 per person.
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