Exploring the Coolest Tango Styles: Argentinian Tango Varieties

To dance or to watch, I cannot perform tango escénario, I’m too old for that. I like to dance on the floor but to create something different lsquo;on the flyrsquo; that’s what I find the coolest thing in Tango— not a prefabricated dance routine.

Watching professional dancers performing acrobatics on stage no longer moves me. I’ve seen performances like that since 1995, with the best dancers, it’s for the general public. There’s another type of presentation, however, when the dancers present to people that dance and understand Tango dancing. One doesn’t see acrobatics or flashy movements but a pure camiada, lots of musicality, and some improvisation that makes you wonder, lsquo;how did they do ; That’s cool…

Understanding Different Tango Styles for the Argentinian Lilting Polsk

Assuming we are talking about Argentine tango, this is a very personal question. It depends on what triggers your interest in the dance. Each style offers a unique experience, catering to different preferences and dance goals.

Milonguero Style

Milonguero style is cool if you enjoy dancing that focuses more on the social and traditional component of Argentine tango. Keeping the dance relatively simple, elegant, and to the point allows you to focus more on the music and your partner. This makes it easier to make meaningful connections while dancing.

Key Features:

Emphasizes social and traditional aspects Simple, elegant, and to the point Focuses on music and partner connection

Some find milonguero style very limiting and prefer more of a nuevo style. Nuevo style is an extension of traditional style. Nuevo allows you to constantly expand your dance vocabulary and explore new elements that push the limits of technique. It also gives more freedom on the dance floor for expression. Unfortunately, it is harder to find like-minded partners at milongas. Overextending yourself with dangerous moves is rude on the dance floor. Therefore, in social environments, you mostly limit your dance.

Key Features:

Expansion of dance vocabulary and technique More freedom for expression on the dance floor Tougher to find compatible partners

Tango Escénario

If you wish to impress and perform shows with your partner, tango escénario is your choice. It builds on the extensive nuevo vocabulary with more theatrical expressions and fancy lifts. Escénario is usually practised with one partner and is not really social in nature, but it definitely is challenging and demanding!

Key Features:

Based on nuevo vocabulary and technique More theatrical expressions and fancy lifts Strongly focused on performance and demanding practice

For me, the coolest is to approach tango as one which incorporates all styles because in a social environment, you may encounter any style of partner. Limiting yourself to one style is just that… A limitation.

Why Choose a Versatile Approach in Argentine Tango

By mastering different styles, you not only enhance your dance repertoire but also become a more versatile dancer. Each style teaches you unique skills and techniques that broaden your understanding of Argentine tango. Here are some reasons to embrace a more versatile approach:

1. Enhanced Musicality and Musical Interpretation

Each style emphasizes different aspects of music. Milonguero focuses on straight playing with the bandoneon, while nuevo and escénario allow for more dynamic and expressive interpretations. By understanding these variations, you can better connect with the music and enhance your dance.

2. Improved Partner Connection and Social Dancing

Milonguero style teaches you to prioritize partner connection and dance within a social environment. This style emphasizes the natural progression of the dance, which can make you a better social dancer. Incorporating other styles allows you to mix up your routine and meet new partners.

3. Expanded Technical Skills and Expression

Nuevo and escénario styles allow you to develop advanced technical skills and expressive movements. These styles break the mold and encourage creativity, helping you to stand out as a dancer. Incorporating these elements can make your dance more dynamic and engaging.

4. Deeper Appreciation for the Dance Culture

Understanding and appreciating the different styles provides a deeper knowledge of Argentine tango’s rich cultural heritage. This cultural appreciation can enhance your overall dancing experience and elevate your enjoyment of the dance.

Conclusion

In the world of Argentine tango, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Each style has its strengths and unique characteristics. By embracing a versatile approach and incorporating different tango styles, you can develop a more comprehensive and fulfilling dancing experience. Whether you prefer the simplicity of milonguero, the creativity of nuevo, or the theatricality of escénario, combining all these styles enriches your journey in tango.