The deeper I go into tango the more I realize the importance of elements other than the steps. We are currently working on musicality, dancing to the various orchestras and noticing how the tango feels different with each one. These two songs are from the orchestra of Hector Varela, whose music is very dramatic! My aspiration now is to be able to not only feel the emotion in the music, but to dance the emotion. Tango is oneness: with your partner, with the music and with the floor. With Alejandro’s help, I am coming to understand that achieving this oneness requires using my whole body.
The words of tango songs are almost impossible for foreigners (and even some Argentines) to understand, because most of them are not written in proper Spanish. Instead, they use a slang unique to Buenos Aires called lunfardo. Although I understand only a few of the words of these two songs, I can feel the pain, and I do my best to interpret it. It’s a work in progress.
I hope you enjoy my tango journey through these occasional videos.
Excellent!!
Thanks Venetia!
Some fancy footwork going on there Ms. Scottish Tangoist! You two dance beautifully together.
Thanks Patti!
So proud of you my gutsy friend! So much fun to be a small part of your journey!
Thanks Susan — you’re more than a small part!
I am awed by your tango journey. Also I now fully understand the lure of tango shoes! They show off the intricate moves so well. Brava Helen!
Thanks Sharon. My tango lesson is a highlight of my week, and I enjoy sharing the results with my friends. And yes, the shoes are a big part of the joy of tango!
You look so good dancing.
Thanks Sue — I feel good dancing!
BRAVO!
Thanks Ruthie!
Dear Helen: Let’s talk. Only a few comments, re: constant collection of feet and posture. Which will solve any musicality probs. Which will never be solved, until the foundation is solid. Then, you can attack Varela or Pugliese or whomever. Tango starts with impeccable technique. Perhaps, you should try some Women’s Technique Classes, taught by women or men who dance women’s part? Continuing classes, with Alej, obvio but just as a technical supplement. As always, chica, I appreciate your continuing, inspiring, BA badassery! Brava!
Thanks, Lola. Yes, I do agree about the importance of technique and I like Alejandro’s approach of working on both the technical and philosophical aspects — as I said, it’s a work in progress. And of course I also dance tango just for the pure joy of it, as I know you do. When are we going to go to La Glorieta together?