Argentine Tango -- How to Learn it

Study Argentine tango in different ways:

1. Take private lessons from a teacher who specializes in Argentine tango. Remember there are several different kinds of tango including: American tango, "International Tango" (from England, and Argentine tango. Don't enroll in International or American tango classes if you want to learn Argentine tango. The styles are very different.

2. Study instructional videos. You can take a free lesson at: http://www.Argentine-tango.com .

3. Study written exercises and descriptions of Argentine Tango steps See http://www.lovemusiclovedance.com/argentine_tango_steps.htm for several exercises and step descriptions.

4. Attend an Argentine tango dance party (called "milonga'). Come early and take the lesson for beginners held before the milonga. If you live near San Francisco check out this website for a milonga on Sunday night.

In Sacramento, visit Tango By the River

5. Find a dance partner to practice with. Consider taking private lessons with your partner. To find a partner:

a) Take a group class and after class (if the the instructor allows time) ask someone if you can practice for a few minutes. Later suggest that you practice together during the week before class. Also, attend dance parties sponsored by the dance studio and make friends with various dancers. Suggestion: don't come on too strong at first with suggestions about practicing together. Get to know someone first.

b) Find a restaurant where there is space to practice dancing while you are waiting for your order. Some people loving doing this; others are just too shy. I've done this several times with no problems. Nobody ever said, "Sorry, you can't dance here." A friend of mine was even hired to dance tango in a bar and grill in San Francisco. You can see a video of him dong that here!

NOTE: there doesn't have to be a formal dance floor, just space to dance. Once you find a place invite a friend to dinner and dancing.

c) Join a service designed to help you find a dance partner, like. DancePartner

d) Attend a singles dance party. These are often held at elegant locations. To find an organization near you, search for "Singles Party in <Name of Nearest City>. If you live in Northern California, check out Bay Area, Sacramento Singles at www.pguild.com