Tango is a type of music and dance that was invented in Argentina and Uruguay. It’s a blend of folk tune and European classical music. Tango music can be vocal or instrumental. The Argentine Tango music is composed in such a manner that dance companions can move easily on the beat.
Tango is incomplete without a partner. It was initiated in the Rio de la Plata that is in the middle of Argentina and Uruguay. This dance was performed in public houses like bars and brothels along with musical bands who entertained the customers.
There are two types of tango dance popularly known today –
- Argentine Tango is the unique form of tango. This form can protect the original and traditional form of tango dance which was enjoyed in the 1880s.
- Spanish Andalusian Tango is a dance by a single woman, which was spread in Central America.
The earlier form of tango dance is not recognized because with time even the Argentine tango has changed and reformed. The dance has been made simpler for people to move on rhythm smoothly. Any two partners can now dance on Argentine tango music. The music is all about sadness, and expressions of lost love.
Ultimate Tango provides Argentine tango classes for adults in Greater Boston. During the COVID-19 pandemic situation, they’re also providing online zoom courses to all their students globally. The creator of Ultimate Tango, Anita Fletjer, and Hernan Brizuela are successful tango dancers. Due to COVID-19, you can also enjoy their 7 days free trial beginner Tango course video.
History of Tango
Tango was initiated in the 1880s. When Argentina welcomed mixed races and people of diverse culture from different countries like Italy, England, Russia, Africa, etc. they soon designed new customs and a new way of leading life. Tango was the creation of such a blend. With the impacts and influence of African rhythmic steps, European minuet couple dance, and polka, tango was brought to the society.
In the 1880s, after its popularity in Buenos Aires, it was recognized as ‘the music of immigrants’ because that is how the blend was introduced. With time tango dance became extremely popular and was enjoyed in open gatherings, events, parties, etc. The dance added fuel to the entertainment industry, later it was executed by several artists on portable stages . Various women fancied the dance and started taking Argentine tango lessons.
The crazy dance was recognized in New York in 1910 and 1912 in Paris. The 20th century brought a boom for this dance. Various gramophone records, as well as tango sheets, were prepared in Buenos Aires. In 1910, the charm of tango dance was doubled with Bandoneon that is a concertina.
During the early 20th century, Argentine tango had become a tradition all over Latin America, North America, and Europe. This is now a piece of phenomenal world music that is adored by almost everyone. Argentine tango music is different from ballroom tango music. Now there are various shows performed with different styles of Tango dance. People have modernized the steps and music to attract different age groups. Even if there are many improvisations in the dance, the crux remains the same.
