STARTING TANGO
New to Tango? We're glad you're here! You can find answers to some of the more common questions people have when starting tango. Have additional questions? Reach out to us!
Do I need a partner to start learning tango?
No, you do not need a partner to start learning Argentine Tango. Most group classes rotate partners, allowing you to practice with different people, which helps improve your leading and following skills. Many tango communities are welcoming to solo dancers, so don’t hesitate to join even if you’re attending alone.
What should I wear to my first tango class?
Comfortable, breathable clothing that allows for freedom of movement is best. Avoid overly tight or restrictive clothing that may limit your movement.
What kind of shoes should I wear for tango?
For beginners, smooth-soled shoes that allow pivoting are best (leather or suede). Heels are optional. Avoid shoes with rubber soles, as they can stick to the floor and make turns more difficult. You can also use dance socks over your shoes if you do not have smooth-soled shoes yet.
As you start to progress in tango, you can see what other dancers wear and even try on shoes from vendors at larger events to see what works for you before investing in tango shoes.
How do I find tango classes or events near me?
For Argentine Tango in the Durham, Raleigh, and Chapel Hill area (the Triangle), you're in the right place! We have our community calendar as well as FaceBook and Instagram page to keep you up to date with what's happening. You can also check out our list of local instructors that teach group and private lessons.
GETTING INVOLVED
Starting to venture out into the social scene? Check out our FAQ below to learn more about what to expect.
What is a milonga, and how does it work?
A milonga is a social event where people gather to dance Argentine Tango. The music is played in structured sets called tandas, separated by short breaks called cortinas. Dancers invite partners using a non-verbal system called the cabeceo. It’s a welcoming environment, but following etiquette helps ensure a smooth experience for everyone.
What are tandas and cortinas?
A tanda is a set of three or four tango songs played by the same orchestra, designed to create a cohesive dancing experience. A cortina is a short, non-tango musical break between tandas, signaling dancers to clear the floor and allowing them to choose new partners for the next tanda.
What should I wear to the milonga?
Dancers will usually dress up for a milonga. Depending on the occasion, the milonga may range from a "smart casual" to "formal"/fancy wear. Dancers will commonly wear slacks with a collared shirt (and jacket if on the formal side), skirt and blouse, or dress. The most important thing is to wear something that you are comfortable in and allows movement.
Other important notes: maintain basic hygiene and avoid wearing strong perfumes or scents.
How do I ask someone to dance?
The cabeceo is a traditional way of inviting someone to dance using eye contact and a small nod. If the invitation is accepted, both dancers move toward each other before entering the dance floor. This method helps avoid awkward refusals and ensures that both partners are interested in dancing together.
Use the cabeceo whenever possible. If you verbally ask someone to dance, be polite and respectful. If they decline, accept their decision gracefully. At milongas, it's common to dance a full tanda (3-4 songs) with the same partner before thanking them and parting ways.
Are there specific rules or etiquette I should follow at a milonga?
Yes, tango has its own social etiquette (códigos) to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone:
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The milonga is the time to dance socially. Teaching and practicing on the dance floor is prohibited.
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Use the cabeceo to invite partners.
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Respect the dance floor’s counterclockwise flow (the ronda).
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Avoid cutting across the dance floor or back and forth between lanes.
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Dance the full tanda with a partner unless there is a mutual understanding to stop earlier.
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Thank your partner only at the end of the tanda.
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Be mindful of personal space and connection preferences.
What should I do if I feel intimidated at a milonga?
It’s normal to feel a little nervous at first. Observe the flow of the dance floor, watch how others use the cabeceo, and take your time before stepping onto the floor. Start by dancing with people you feel comfortable with, such as classmates or instructors. With time, you’ll gain confidence and feel more at ease.
What should I do if I make a mistake while dancing?
Mistakes are a natural part of learning. The key is to stay calm and keep moving with the music. Apologizing is usually unnecessary unless you physically disrupt or bump into another couple. Focus on maintaining connection with your partner and enjoying the dance.
GOT TANGO?
Want to continue improving your tango? Check out the Q&A's below:
How important is musicality in tango dancing?
Musicality is essential in tango, as it allows dancers to interpret the music with feeling and expression. Good dancers listen carefully to the rhythm, melody, and phrasing, adjusting their movements accordingly. Developing musicality enhances the connection between partners and makes the dance more enjoyable and expressive.
Are there different styles of Argentine Tango?
Yes, Argentine Tango has several styles, including:
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Tango Salon: A smooth, elegant style with an upright posture and an emphasis on musicality.
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Tango Milonguero: A close-embrace style ideal for crowded dance floors, focusing on compact movements.
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Tango Nuevo: A more open, dynamic style that incorporates modern elements and improvisation.
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Stage Tango: A theatrical version designed for performances, featuring dramatic movements and embellishments.
All styles of Argentine Tango have their strengths and weaknesses. For social dancing, most tangueros around the world dance salon or milonguero style.
Should I learn to lead and follow, or just one role?
In tango's beginning days, men practiced with men and women practiced with women to get ready to dance together as man and woman socially. So most everyone learned both roles.
Traditionally in the social setting, men lead and women follow, but a growing number of dancers learn and dance both roles socially. Understanding both perspectives improves your dancing and make you more versatile in classes and at social events. Some dancers prefer to specialize in one role, while others enjoy switching between leading and following.
For dancers that want to specialize in one role, we encourage them to learn the basics of their non-preferred role to enhance their learning experience and enable them to get the most out of classes and workshops that may not be role balanced.