Learn The Tango: Latin America Active Adventures

By Ronald Stewart


The Argentine Tango is a dramatic, sensual style of dance that portrays a sense of intimacy between the partners. Argentine Tango originated as far back as the 1800 s. Difficult times experienced during that period initiated a sense of longing and need into the dance. Primarily performed by African and European migrants in Buenos Aires. This discipline now can be experienced as part of the many Latin America Active Adventures.

While the Tango music of today is quite upbeat it is by no means the type of music that characterizes the original Argentine Tango. The music primarily used for the dance is created on a German instrument that resembles an accordion. The instrument is called and Bandoneon and the sound emitted is melodic and carries undertones of romance. Modern-day variations of the Tango are classified as ballroom dancing, however, the original Argentine Tango was not intended as such.

The Argentine Tango was developed as a means of escape from harsh times and as an expression of emotion by the immigrants, it was never intended to be competitive. The social dance is more about mingling with other like-minded individuals, not being compared to others. Over time as more people began to take part in the dance and the advancements and changes occurred, a competition was the next step.

Buenos Aires, Argentina hosts a Tango competition called the World Tango Dance Tournament. The competition forms an integral part of the Tango Festival held in the country during August. The first of these competitions or championships was held in 2003. The competition is sub-divided into two categories.

The first category, Tango De Pista is the division that requires dancers to compete according to strict rules. Traditional milonga figures are an integral requirement in this division. The second category is called the Tango Escenario. This division is the more free form of the Tango. The dances are choreographed and incorporate a variety of dance disciplines which include the likes of ballet. Primarily it was a rule that all dance pairs include a male and female participant, however, in 2013 the rules changed allowing same-gender couples to compete.

As the Argentine Tango was primarily borne as a mean of expression and took place on a social platform, it was never intended for it to become competitive in nature. Over time and as the dance evolved into the modern day Tango competition seemed the next logical step. Many people are still negative about the competitiveness, however, there are benefits that are quite considerable. It is human nature to strive to be better and competition provides the driving force to improve. The months running up to any competition are filled with extensive practice and training which encourage improvement and defining of your skills.

Tango competition is the perfect opportunity to test your abilities and skill levels. This will define whether or not your need for improvement. It is important not to let any shortcomings damage your self-esteem and confidence. Keep the dance fun and entertaining. Always remember why you started dancing the Argentine Tango to start with.

As fierce as the competition is during one of these tournaments the camaraderie is something to be amazed at. While the contestants are dancing against each other, they are all experiencing the same nerves and applause as each other and they are all savouring the moments as they occur. You can t help but develop bonds with these people who have your same love at heart.




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