Argentine Tango Classes, Workshops, Practicas and Milongas
Tina Marie Tango Academy
Frequently Asked Questions...
Q: Do I need a partner to enroll in classes? No. You do not need a partner. Rotating partners is the norm in classes and at Milongas. (Social Tango Dance Parties) By rotating partners, you meet new people, and in this highly communicative dance of Tango, your learning to skills are enhanced by dancing with everyone. *If you wish to remain with the partner you came with for the duration of the class, just advise the instructor. No problem.
Q: Do I need prior dance experience to learn tango? You do not need any dance experience to dance and enjoy tango. In fact, tango is unique to most all other forms of couples dancing. Coming with a blank canvas is the best way to learn. Tina prides herself in teaching ordinary people, not only to dance Argentine tango, but to fall in love with it.
Q: How do I register for classes? Advance registration and payment for classes is required. Please see the class schedule for enrollment procedures.
Q: How do I dress for tango class?
For regular tango class, wearing comfortable clothing that you can move in and feel good in works best. Ladies should avoid tight skirts or excessively long skirts. Be sure to bring shoes suitable for dancing. A pair of socks packed your dance bag is a suggested item for tango classes just in case.
Q: How do I dress for specialty classes that involve body work, conditioning, or technique? Specialty tango development classes usually involve stretching and limbering exercises. For these classes you will need non-restrictive yoga or gym attire conducive for floor work and stretching. Bring a pair of socks and your dance shoes. Any other specific attire or items needed will be noted in class descriptions.
Q: Do I need to purchase special shoes? No, not in the beginning. But if you have been dancing tango for at least 6 months, it is recommended that you invest in a pair (or two) of proper tango shoes. You will be surprised at how it affects your dancing. As an instructor of Argentine tango I am acutely aware of the crucial role that correct shoes play in learning and dancing tango. When you are ready be sure to check with Tina Marie for her recommendations. There is a variety of styles available for both men and women from basic and classic practice shoes to handsomely elegant and ornate. Heel heights vary and comfort is key.
Q: I am a beginner. What shoes do I wear to class?
From your wardrobe, choose a comfortable closed toe shoe, preferably with a leather sole that does not stick or grip the floor when you pivot. A low profile dress shoe usually works best. It will usually takes a few tries to learn which of your street shoes works for you and gives you the most comfort and mobility while dancing. Ladies should start with a medium or flat heel height. Please note that athletic shoes, flip-flops, extreme heel heights, sandals, wedges, and platforms will definitely impede your learning and are hazardous.
Q: How do I dress for a Practica or Milonga? When you begin tango and enter into it's environment, you will begin to get a feel for what others like to wear to tango and what attire you feel most comfortable dancing in. Generally speaking, a Practica is less formal than a Milonga, but everyone should wear what makes them feel good. Please remember
that good hygiene is a must! Be ready for close dancing with fresh attire, cleanliness and fresh breath. Use cologne and perfumes in moderation. Fragrance is nice. Too much is too much! Here are a few problematic items everyone should avoid.
Men: No cuffed trousers. The woman's heel of her shoe (usually a stiletto) can easily get caught in the cuff of the man's pant leg. It's a real making for disaster.
Ladies: Be aware of bulky jewelry. Avoid jewelry that comes in contact with the man at connection points. Necklaces are especially burdensome and can be very uncomfortable to your partner.
CLASS ARRIVAL:
Please arrive a few minutes early to all classes or workshops so that instruction can begin on time with everyone. The extra few minutes allows us time to greet you, get everyone signed-in and to collect any fees that may be due. Use this time for changing into your dance shoes, relaxing, socializing or stretching. Ask someone to join you in warming up, or to recall and review last weeks tango material.
HYGIENE:
Tango requires working in close proximity of each other and good hygiene is crucial for everyone's enjoyment at any tango class or event. Please be considerate of others and prepare.