tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4453409865392995432024-02-22T21:58:00.979+00:00tangolinguaa language of movement and connectionJoe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-16202820681508705102017-04-19T07:21:00.000+01:002017-04-19T19:33:40.319+01:00Tips for practising tango technique with a partnerIn this post I want to address technique practice for new and seasoned dancers alike, whether already practising, trying to or just considering it. It focuses both on 1-to-1 practice with a specific partner (in a practica or elsewhere) and on practising with different partners in a group class. There are also a few tips for how to address technique - where really necessary - in a milonga with minimal disturbance to the social dance. In all areas much of it is to do with constructive communication.<br />
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<h3>
Why we start and why we stop practising</h3>
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Before we dive in, you can absolutely have fun with social tango dancing without having a regular practice partner. Indeed this is how the large majority dance: classes and with the later addition of milongas - no additional focused technique practice. And that's fine. It is simply that by practising consistently with a partner (and on your own), between classes, you will discover new depths and joys to the dance. That's because learning tango is like learning a language; it benefits greatly from more repetition, experimentation and immersion.<br />
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We start practising because we want to improve at something. We continue practising either because we enjoy the process itself or the improvements gained are enough to continue motivating us.<br />
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When it comes to practising tango for social dancing the time requirements for significant benefits to your skills are fairly small. Even just 2 x 15 mintutes a week (between your classes) would be very worthwhile. Hence excuses along the lines of "we don't have time" will almost always be a way of avoiding saying 'we are not enjoying practising together' or 'we don't improve when we practice'. Because if you enjoy doing something and you feel the benefits of doing it, then you'll find 15 minutes for it. So let's look at some ideas for better enjoying your practice together and making it more productive.<br />
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<h3>
Start with a plan</h3>
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What specifically are you going to practice? The embrace and walking is always a good choice. Perhaps also include a couple of points from your last lesson to reinforce what you learnt. In any case, just being specific about the things you'll cover in your practice time will help you to stay focused.<br />
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Discussing with each other first, why you'd like to practice particular techniques or movements will help establish motivation for what you decide to have on your list. Be sure to hear your partner's preferences as well as share your own. And make sure you're both in willing agreement with what to practice before you start to work through your list. When that's done, if you're having fun you might find you start to experiment and other ideas come up that you're both interested in practising.<br />
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Doing things this way (having a todo list) at least until you establish a solid practice habit, means you'll avoid clearing some time to practice and then getting into conversations like "let's do X" - "oh, that's boring, let's do Y" - "but that's not what the lesson was on..." etc. and then, surprise, finding your practice time wasn't so productive.<br />
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If you're unsure what to have on your practice list, again, I'd suggest putting walking and fine tuning the embrace right at the top, even when you're already comfortable dancing a wide range of techniques and figures. Tango is built around a walking embrace and the upper bounds of the quality of your dance is set by how well you can walk together.<br />
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<h3>
Practice communication while you practice tango</h3>
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Like anything worth learning, Tango is challenging. While that's part of what makes it fun and satisfying as a dance, it also means you can expect some confusion, mistakes and maybe some occasional frustration along the way. How you deal with that with yourself and your practice partner is crucial to the healthy and enjoyable continuation of your practice. But as a teacher I see and hear of signs of let's call it 'obstructive communication' in group and private classes and on the dance floor, fairly frequently. It's often not done knowingly. It's just a set of communication habits that are not helping. Which mostly explains why many partners practise endeavours are short lived.<br />
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With that in mind, let's say you're practising and trying a step and for maybe the third or forth time it's just not working or feeling right. Which of the following possible reactions will you choose?<br />
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<ol>
<li>blame yourself, including sweeping apologies for being a 'rubbish dancer' and rising levels of panic.</li>
<li>blame your partner, with words or by tutting, sighing, huffing or rolling eyes.</li>
<li>blame yourself while really thinking its your partner's fault, because you don't want them to feel the stress or shame of being at fault or you don’t think that addressing the problem will be successful.</li>
<li>blame your partner while really thinking its your fault, because you feel unable to confront the stress and shame of doing something badly and admitting to it.</li>
<li>pretend not to blame and get cross with anyone, but give 'subtle' signs that you are actually doing that, including sarcasm or growing disinterest/distraction.</li>
<li>express what you're observing and feeling - without judging any fault - and check in with what your partner is experiencing with the technique or step.</li>
</ol>
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Yes, option 6. above in practically all cases is the correct answer here. But let's look a bit more at how those possible responses can manifest and the effect they could be having on your dance practice.<br />
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When you're deliberately practising technique you're figuring stuff out, you're problem solving. And what's the best method humankind has developed for doing that? Yep, the scientific method. Dealing with observations, experimenting with a number of variables and again making observations to refine some process, understanding or product.<br />
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<h3>
How to benefit from the scientific method (and avoid derailing it)</h3>
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With tango practice, we have an end result in mind; a movement or figure, a quality of connection, a relationship to the music, etc. And we have some variables, such as posture, balance, tension or relaxation in various parts of our body, timing, the calibration between invitation and response, etc. The kind of observations we might make then are the state some of those variables, e.g. this arm is pushing out, or this arm is holding its shape, or my weight in going to the outside edge of my foot at this point in the movement, or the response to this invitation is faster/slower/lighter/heaver here. From these observations we can access or guess whether that state is taking us closer or further away from the result we're aiming for. We then try changing the variables for better results. In principle, all fairly straight forward, logical stuff.<br />
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Now, what happens to the above scientific process when we introduce a new focus on finding who has messed up and expressing discontent about it? More than simply being distracted from productive practice we're creating an emotional disincentive to continue. When blame, disapproval, condescension, insecure displays of authority or submissiveness, passive or overt aggression occur it's usually not a pleasant experience. If it happens regularly you probably wont want to carry on practising or dancing together.<br />
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OK, but what if you've made some observations and tried changing what you're both doing but you're still stuck and it seems like someone it just 'doing it wrong'? Is it then time to tell them (or yourself) they're messing up and that they should just sort their technique out?<br />
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Well, let's say in this case there is a correct technique and it's not being followed by one or both of you. If you've already made the observations about the relevant variables (positions, tensions and timings of your movement) and are simply struggling to make the changes you both want to try making, then what possible benefit could come from getting ticked off about it and creating some of those emotional disincentives previously discussed? Instead, try to figure out why making a change of some variable is difficult.<br />
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Is the difficulty a) to do with mobility or agility? Or is it b) more about trust and fear of being in a certain position? If a) then is there tension anywhere else in the body that could be released that would enable the movement (e.g. one side of the frame), or is it really a current limitation of your body? If b) is there a way of approaching the position or movement in a more gradual way, or making a game out of it, to build trust and confidence? Again, the experimental, methodical and creative approaches are more likely to result in success. Imagine you are two scientists working together to solve a problem.<br />
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When you start communicating in this way, if your partner was used to hearing or speaking in an emotionally loaded way around tango practice (or in general), then it could take a bit of time before they understand you're not still trying to make them wrong, or that you're not interested in them being wrong.<br />
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In the case of your tango partner being your life partner, you'll have more ingrained styles of communication between you. Where if in every day life you've found ways of working around or avoiding any communication malfunctions, that often doesn't work in tango practice due to the challenges of learning the dance. There is also the potential cost of a practice fall out spilling over. That's my theory for why couples in particular often struggle to maintain regular practice together. It may take a bit more concentration to shift communication style. But hopefully very much worth the effort.<br />
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<h3>
For group classes and milongas</h3>
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One thing the health and vitality of a tango community depends on is well attended group classes and milongas (and for bigger or more advanced communities, practicas too). Without those, not much of a community.<br />
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Classes and milongas are only well attended when people enjoy going, which brings us back to how we communicate with partners. With constructive communication, everyone benefits, because it's easer to then improve and the process is more enjoyable. With non-constructive communication, what we have is a heavy tax on fun, but without any communal benefit.<br />
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What led to this post is the fact that I fairly frequently hear about the kind of blame and disapproval laden comments (see section "Practice communication while you practice tango") that lead to emotional disincentives to attend classes or milongas. Several students have stopped dancing entirely because of such comments, who attended my classes over the last 6 months, and several others have been on the verge of stopping. From what I can tell, it’s not too different in other communities. That's bad for any community and also bad for business. [So I may be following up on this blog with a little communication guidance in classes..]<br />
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Of course, in group classes, everyone moves a bit differently and skill levels are variable within a certain range. So when you try a technique with one partner and it seems to work fine, but not so much with the next partner, it's easy to get frustrated, which is where 'communication malfunctions' can occur. So, if you find yourself tempted to make a comment as listed 1. through 5. in section "Practice communication while you practice tango", including tutting, huffing and similar, just take a moment. Consider the negative impact that will have, ultimately on everyone in the community including you, and try the more constructive, scientific approach.<br />
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As for milongas, if you can possibly avoid discussing technique with the person you're dancing with, so much the better. It can easily distract from the enjoyment of social dancing and, if it's about wanting them to change something, be potentially off putting. If something is persistently uncomfortable or dangerous, say something (as constructively as possible, e.g. 'would you mind if we try dancing with a slightly looser hold?', rather than 'your hold is too tight'). Otherwise, probably best left for your technique practice session. If you want to be more subtle about making a request you feel is necessary, you can try physically emphasizing the change you want your partner to make, and see if they mirror you. E.g. take the close side arm of your embrace away for a moment and then gently replace it, to see if they loosen their embrace in response.<br />
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<h3>
Remember why you're practising</h3>
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Tango can be many things, from an enjoyable social activity to a performance art demanding great athleticism and technical mastery. What are you working towards? Being on the same page as your practice partner (or at least recognising any differences in goal and adapting to them where possible) can help avoid frustration and increase the satisfaction you have in the results you get.<br />
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This is also about setting your expectations according to your own level of commitment to learning and practice time. So if you're looking at world class dancers, who train and dance for hours a day, and wondering why your musicality or the shape of your ganchos (or whatever) doesn't look that similar, when you practice maybe once a week, then it's time to adjust your expectations. Think more about what you'd like to use and improve on in your social dancing. Doing that doesn't mean your dancing has to lack excitement and dynamism. It's more a question of being smart about picking the challenge and complexity level of the movements you practice, given the time you have available.<br />
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<h3>
Have fun</h3>
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Because tango is such a rich dance with potential for great emotional intensity and intellectual, mind-body connection depth, it can all get a bit addictive. I say that, knowing that it's something every dancer who stays the course for more than a year or so will go through. That addictiveness can be a source of stress if you're not getting the fix or quality of fix you crave. Being mindful of that process, however, may help you maintain perspective. It's a dance. And the learning of it has no end. So be patient and enjoy the journey, for however long you stay on it.<br />
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You started learning tango because you thought it would be fun. Hopefully these tips will help it stay that way in your practice. If you get really hooked you might even find that your practice sessions are a particular highlight, where you get to deepen your knowledge and discover new and better possibilities for movement and expression in the dance.<br />
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<h3>
Bonus section: Wait! I don't have a partner!</h3>
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If you're serious about wanting to practice then you'll be able to find at least a little time for it. The challenges then may be finding a partner and finding a space to practice. Space is relatively easy to fix. If you can't afford to hire somewhere, then living rooms or kitchens will do. Even hallways (or indeed the ocean) are good enough. If you're lucky, there'll be some time before or after your regular group class where you can use the space to practice too. So then on to finding your partner.<br />
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If you're looking to improve your social dancing the main requirements for a practice partner are that there is at least some enjoyment dancing with them and that you can communicate constructively with each other (see previous sections). If you have that and you both want to practice then everything else can be worked around.<br />
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You might ideally want someone of the same or higher ability than you, but if you let that hold you up you might have no partner at all. Better to have someone in the same ballpark or at least a near by ballpark in terms of skill and start by refining simpler techniques and concepts. If you do that consistently, you'll both be pleased with your progress (even though you may be the more ‘technically advanced dancer’) and will grow to enjoy dancing with each other much more.<br />
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Finally, it's worth repeating, whether you have a practice partner or not, there’s a lot to be gained from regular solo technique practice.<br />
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Enjoy your dancing and dance practice.Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-83270876988859071832016-11-22T23:08:00.002+00:002016-11-22T23:08:20.798+00:00How 'trying on the shoes' of the other role will make you a better dancerWhen we dance tango we aim to connect with our partner closely, so that leader and follower move in harmony. This is possible only when each dancer has a certain understanding and empathy with the other role danced by their partner.<br />
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The more you practice your technique the more you discover that as a follower it often helps to be <i>assertive</i> and <i>active</i> in how you <i>communicate</i> with your leader and <i>be in charge</i> of your own step even when you’re accepting an invitation for that step. And that as a leader it often helps to <i>wait</i> and be <i>sensitive</i> and <i>receptive</i> to how your follower is moving, or even to what they are suggesting.<br />
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So there is leading in following, and following in leading. In relation to that then, actually learning the other role will have a profound impact on your dancing. Not only will those crucial aspects of one role within the other be realized and strengthened, but those questions many dancers have about how does their partner want them to respond or connect, about what feels good for them in their role, you will begin to understand from <i>direct experience</i> and the intuition which that gives you.<br />
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Naturally the approach to learning the other role is important. Tango can be a challenging dance to learn just the one role in, so it’s understandable that some dancers might worry about getting (even more) confused by trying two roles. The anchor to prevent possible discord from random, involuntary or otherwise role switching, or such like, is simply empathy. The empathy you gain from learning how that feels, from the perspective of your partner’s role (actually if done deliberately and with good rapport it can feel great sometimes).<br />
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By focusing your initial efforts of learning the other role on the quality of connection in basic technique (posture, walking, crossing, simple pivoting), you develop a <i>first hand understanding</i> of what the other role is looking for. It’s that understanding that will make things more (not less) clear, when you’re back dancing your usual role in tango.<br />
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<span style="font-size: 110%;">Perhaps one of the reasons for tango being as challenging as it’s often considered, is putting off learning a little of the other role.</span> Because without that experience, a powerful learning feedback loop is broken. It’s that experience of dancing the other role that closes it. Otherwise tango remains for much longer somewhat like dancing with a mystery black box. Through much expert guidance and experimentation you could learn what inputs should result in what outputs, but how much quicker and further you could go, by opening up that box and learning how it works?<br />
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<img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKfBQXAABblD-ATw9Fx318PPx6uJ8TcHRww352KCzd4cVB5R9cGiQNwjoq-aAnmBrPFQbM28Bo9-UI0J0vvMzsvK0nh-4_A99JsYeqpoLDlHmGyQHiHCTDt4m7RDrEn8gpOzkiCIpcQio/s400/same-sex-tango-1.jpg" width="400" /><br />
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Photo from: https://tangocritica.wordpress.com/2013/08/28/tango-same-sex-pairs-shake-up-world-cup-in-argentina/</div>
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<b>A breakdown of the benefits of learning the other role:</b><br />
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<ul>
<li><b>For followers:</b> Let's say, for example, you're a follower who is unsure of the right amount of presence or resistance to give a leader when walking, and perhaps struggle to keep a smooth, clear connection because of it. By leading some walking yourself you will directly experience how different levels of presence from a follower feel from a leaders’ perspective, and what makes the connection clearer or less clear. Then when you go back to following you'll have a better idea of what will feel good for the leader and you and generally work well. The same principle applies to timing in ochos or crosses, or really any technique. </li>
<li><b>For Leaders:</b> Let's say you're a leader who finds their followers often lose balance or seem uncomfortable during ochos. By directly experiencing being led in different ways you will feel yourself how a follower wants to be led an ocho and so be able to rapidly improve your own leading of them (while also improving your own balance). Again, the same principle applies to timing in crosses or walking, or really any technique. </li>
<li><b>For Leader or follower:</b> Or perhaps you worry about only being able to dance relatively few steps and that your partner will get bored with them. By directly experiencing the other role you'll feel how wonderful 'just walking' or doing very simple steps can feel for your partner too if these steps are made with a finely tuned and fluid connection. </li>
<li><b>For milongas and classes:</b> In many milongas or classes leader/follower numbers are not balanced. Wouldn't it be great if in those cases you could enjoy dancing or practising a little in the other role and avoid sitting out? Many dancers who try this discover a love for other role too, all while getting more dance and practice time in.</li>
<li><b>For practice partners:</b> If when you try to practice you find it hard to give each other informed, constructive and encouraging feedback, it may be due to a lack of understanding and empathy with what is involved in the other role and how each role fits together in a certain movement. By having a little experience in the other role yourself you'll be better able to work constructively and supportively together on your tango.</li>
</ul>
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If you’re wondering how you can get started on learning the other role, well you’re in luck, as I'm running a workshop on just that, on Sat 10th Dec in Southampton :)<br />
<a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton/argentine-tango-role-reversal-workshop">http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton/argentine-tango-role-reversal-workshop</a>Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-18307054181819729472016-03-29T09:16:00.002+01:002016-03-29T09:20:40.767+01:00Exciting tango happenings for Apr/May 2016<span style="color: #505050; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "arial"; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Hi there,</span><br />
<div style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">
<span style="color: #505050;">I hope you had a lovely Easter break! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #505050;">The year seems to have flown by so far, but gladly the cold (if not the rain) is flying away with it.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #505050;">A couple of weeks ago I reflected on </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/joehuds0n/posts/10156637590445424?pnref=story" style="color: #c01008;" target="_blank">10 years of tango dancing</a><span style="color: #505050;">. Following from that, I made a little promo video you may enjoy here: </span><a href="https://youtu.be/VkcEST2ghBQ" style="color: #c01008;" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/VkcEST2ghBQ</a><br />
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<span style="color: #505050;">On to exciting tango happenings for April and May (and for a new taste of Blues dance, scroll to the end). </span><br />
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<span style="color: #505050;">Firstly I'm very happy to announce I'll be teaching two tango workshops on </span><b style="color: #505050;">Sat 7th May</b><span style="color: #505050;">, at TLC with Tracie. They will be a great opportunity to come and get a little more detail and time to absorb than you would in a group class, on techniques and movements you'll enjoy using in your social dancing. Here are the specifics:</span><br />
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<b style="color: #505050;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">May 7th, 12:30 - 2:30pm - Wraps, ganchos and free leg play</span></b><br />
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<span style="color: #505050;">Learn all about how to get the most out of the free leg, for followers and leaders. This workshop delves into how to dance the playful movement of leg wraps, ganchos and more, with confidence, precision and safety. </span><i style="color: #505050;">Suitable for all dancers already comfortable with walking, crosses, ochos and giros.</i><br />
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<span style="color: #505050; font-size: 15px;"><b>May 7th, 3:00 - 5:00pm - Vals turns and alterations</b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #505050;">Dancing to Vals can be a sumptuous, twirling flight. In this workshop we'll explore a variety of particularly delicious turns and alterations, with a detailed breakdown of the follower and leader technique, that will bring more of that feeling to your Vals dancing. </span><i style="color: #505050;">Suitable for all dancers already comfortable with walking, crosses, ochos and giros.</i><br />
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<span style="color: #505050;">Both workshops can be booked now via </span><a href="http://www.tracieslatinclub.co.uk/Contact.htm" style="color: #c01008;" target="_blank">TLC</a><span style="color: #505050;">, and neither require a partner. It's £17 for one, or £30 for both workshops, per person.</span><br />
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<b style="color: #505050;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Apr 9th - 10th</span></b><span style="color: #505050;"> - Over this weekend I'm running another one of my </span><a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton/beginners-introduction-to-argentine-tango-april-2016" target="_blank"><span style="color: #990000;">weekend beginner Argentine tango courses</span></a><span style="color: #505050;">. 2-5:30pm on both Sat & Sun @ The Hut, 2 Reynolds Rd, Shirley. There are still a few places left if you want to come and refresh and refine the very basics (two students did that on the last one and found it very worthwhile), or know any complete beginners who'd like to give tango a go. Here is the info and booking page:</span><br />
<a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton/beginners-introduction-to-argentine-tango-april-2016" style="color: #c01008;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton/beginners-introduction-to-argentine-tango-april-2016</a><br />
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<span style="color: #505050;">Before that, coming up next weekend, </span><b style="color: #505050;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Sat 2nd April</span></b><span style="color: #505050;"> there is a </span><b style="color: #505050;">Milonga at TLC</b><span style="color: #505050;">. 4 DJs and a great crowd. So hopefully </span><a href="http://tracieslatinclub.co.uk/Events.htm#TangoMilongaSouthampton" style="color: #c01008;" target="_blank">see you there</a><span style="color: #505050;">! Also, the highly regarded Mabel Rivero is teaching ladies technique workshops @ TLC on 1st and 2nd April, so any ladies who want to do that speak to Tracie now and she'll put you on the reserve list.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #505050;">For anyone on the Isle of Wight on </span><b style="color: #505050;">Sunday 3rd April</b><span style="color: #505050;">, I've been invited to run two tango workshops there. See the </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/588649097978102/" style="color: #c01008;" target="_blank">FB event</a><span style="color: #505050;"> for details on that and how to book.</span><br />
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<b style="color: #505050;">Wed group classes.</b><span style="color: #505050;"> I've been enjoying teaching at TLCs very much since November. It's been great to see so much enthusiasm and also some steady progress over those months from so many students. Over the next couple of months I'll be teaching a series of lessons on the Wednesdays on particular themes.</span><br />
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<b style="color: #505050;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Wed 6th & 13th Apr</span></b><span style="color: #505050;"> @ TLC:</span><br />
<b style="color: #505050;">Crazy crosses/Cross city</b><span style="color: #505050;"> - everyone knows how to cross in tango, right? Actually this basic element of tango dancing has a whole world of playful possibilities beyond the staple cross over to the followers right. Come and explore some of them over these 2 weeks.</span><br />
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<b style="color: #505050;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Wed 4th - 25th Apr</span></b><span style="color: #505050;"> @ TLC:</span><br />
<b style="color: #505050;">Advanced Giros</b><span style="color: #505050;"> (using colgadas, sacadas & wraps) - what is it that makes the giro a foundation of both basic social dancing and the most impressive tango performances? The giro can be simple and functional, but it can also be meltingly elegant in that simplicity, or expanded into something dazzling and intricate. These 4 lessons will help you find new life and delight in a variety of different giros.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #505050;">While anyone who might come to the level 4 class on Wed (or feels ready to try) is welcome to drop in to any of the above, to get to most from it, it is recommended to attended the whole of each series of lessons on a theme. Why have only a slice, when you could have the whole pie?</span><br />
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<b style="color: #505050;">Monday practica</b><span style="color: #505050;">. Aside from the regular group classes the Monday practica has been up and running now since Dec, and everyone who comes seems to be getting a lot out of it. If you're serious about progressing in your tango skills, then regular practice (not just milongas and classes) is essential. There's no minimum standard for the practica, everyone is welcome, 8:30 - 10:30+pm @ The Hut, 2 Reynold Rd, Shirley. I'm there, on hand for the whole time to help with anything you might want to practice. If you'd like to come, please join the </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/827355304053975/?fref=ts" style="color: #c01008;" target="_blank">Practica FB group</a><span style="color: #505050;">. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #505050;">Finally on the tango news, I'd like to run a </span><b style="color: #505050;">milonga @ the Hut</b><span style="color: #505050;">. No fixed date as yet, but I wanted to get your feelings on trying it in such a petite venue. The appeal for me is that small size, and how it can help create a beautiful togetherness and flow between the dancers and the ronda. It can be scary at first, but then you may find the unique charms of a cosy milonga quite enjoyable. That's why it will be called </span><b style="color: #505050;">'Milonga Abrigada'</b><span style="color: #505050;">. So, if you're keen or at least curious about the idea of the milonga (maybe once a month at most), please let me know.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #505050; font-size: 15px;"><b>Blues dance - here's a chance to try it</b></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #505050;">Having a general interest in dance, a couple of years ago I stumbled across a variety of Blues style Mo'jive dancing and absolutely loved it, most especially the laid back, smooth grooviness of it, with clear accents of tango. I recently decided it was time to explore it a bit more, and perhaps what else Blues has to offer. Luckily enough it turns out there are some Blues specialists based on the Isle of Wight. Having been in touch with Basil and Mandy for a little while I've invited them to come and teach some </span><b style="color: #505050;">Blues workshops in Southampton</b><span style="color: #505050;">! The venue is the lovely Friends Meeting House in Southampton.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #505050;">The first one on </span><b style="color: #505050;">Sunday 17th April</b><span style="color: #505050;"> is aimed mainly at Jive dancers (but is open to everyone). So, if you know any who you think might enjoy some Blues, do let them know!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #505050;">The second one on </span><b style="color: #505050;">Saturday May 28th</b><span style="color: #505050;"> is aimed at tango dancers (and those who already did the Apr one).</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #505050;">You can find the full detail, more about the teachers and online booking for the Blues workshops here:</span><br />
<span style="color: #505050;">17th Apr - </span><a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/guest-teacher/blues-dance-for-jive-dancers" style="color: #c01008;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/guest-teacher/blues-dance-for-jive-dancers</a><br />
<span style="color: #505050;">28th May - </span><a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/guest-teacher/steal-the-edge-blues-dance" style="color: #c01008;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/guest-teacher/steal-the-edge-blues-dance</a><br />
<span style="color: #505050;">Any queries, just ask.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #505050;">Happy dancing,</span><br />
<span style="color: #505050;">Joe</span></div>
Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-26890182786244302702016-02-13T23:18:00.000+00:002016-02-13T23:56:40.050+00:00New beginner's Argentine Tango, weekend course Feb 2016<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div>
<h3>
Would you like to learn how to dance Argentine Tango in a weekend? </h3>
<div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div>
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<div style="padding-left: 2em;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Then this 2 day workshop is for you! Feb 20th - Feb 21st 2016
</b></span>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Argentine Tango is a beautiful, creative dance that can be as playful or sensual as you want to make it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Tango has many benefits beside the joys of dancing it. It can improve your fitness, balance, confidence and posture, as well as being a great way to meet new people!</span></div>
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<div style="display: inline; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 8px 20px; text-align: right; width: 179px;">
<img alt="friendly expert tuition by Joe Hudson" border="0" height="200" src="https://sites.google.com/site/tangolingua/workshops/southampton/beginners-introduction-to-tango-20th-21st-feb-2016/joe_tango_pic.jpg" style="display: inline; margin-bottom: 6px;" width="179" />
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><b>Friendly, expert tuition with Joe Hudson</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">The Tango Lingua approach is fun and relaxed, and focused on helping your body absorb the technique so you can get on and enjoy the dance. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">If you can walk, then you can tango! All it takes is an interest in learning.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Here's what you'll get from the weekend:</b></span></div>
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<ul>
<li style="margin-top: 0.8em;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Learn the basic tango techniques of walking, the embrace, crosses and ochos.</span></li>
<li style="margin-top: 0.8em;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Be introduced to simple elements of musicality and play in the dance.</span></li>
<li style="margin-top: 0.8em;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Practice to different types of tango music.</span></li>
<li style="margin-top: 0.8em;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Enough experience to go on to regular weekly group classes if you wish, or to dance in a social setting.</span></li>
<li style="margin-top: 0.8em;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Lots of fun!</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i>To take part in this weekend, just book your place below.</i></span></div>
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No partner required, although you're welcome to bring one.<br />
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<form action="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr" method="post" target="_top">
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<img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="https://www.paypalobjects.com/en_GB/i/scr/pixel.gif" width="1" />
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<img alt="tango class 1" border="0" height="240" src="https://sites.google.com/site/tangolingua/workshops/southampton/beginners-introduction-to-tango-20th-21st-feb-2016/IMG_8203_.jpeg" width="300" /></div>
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<img alt="tango class 2" border="0" height="229" src="https://sites.google.com/site/tangolingua/workshops/southampton/beginners-introduction-to-tango-20th-21st-feb-2016/20140922_210742_.jpg" width="300" /></div>
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<b>Places are strictly limited to 8 maximum</b>, for each weekend, so <b>you get lots of personal teaching attention</b>. That also means to ensure your place you need to book early.</div>
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Please book your place(s) with Paypal:</div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Cost:</span> <span style="font-size: small;">£48 per person (or £38 for unwaged/low income)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Times:</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Saturday: 2:00 - 5:30pm</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Sunday: 2:00 - 5:30pm</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Date:</span><span style="font-size: small;"> 20th-21st Feb 2016</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">Venue:</span> <span style="font-size: small;">"The Hut", 2 Reynolds Road, Southampton, SO15 5GS</span></div>
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(Go up the drive, and through the gate.) Parking available along the road.</div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;">What to wear:</span></div>
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If you have dance shoes, bring those. Otherwise ideally leather or plastic soles, and not too much room at the front. No metal heel, toe or marking soles please. Clothes should be comfortable and easy to move around in.</div>
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There will be a short break in the middle of each day for snacks and drink, if you'd like to bring any. </div>
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Any other questions, please <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/tangolingua/contact">get in touch</a>.</div>
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Read how other students have enjoyed Tango Lingua courses and teaching <a href="https://sites.google.com/site/tangolingua/testimonials">here</a>.</div>
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Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-36319253799019535472013-07-29T23:01:00.002+01:002013-07-29T23:01:50.700+01:00Colgadas with changes of embrace - final workshop, 10th Aug - and farewell soonI hope you're well and enjoying your dancing.<br />
<br />
As you may already know, I've been planning some travels for a while and
it looks like that's finally going to happen from the end of Aug now.
So... the last workshop before I go away is coming up on <strong>Saturday 10th August</strong>, 2-5:30pm.<br />
<br />
It's going to be on colgadas - an especially fluid and beautiful
movement in tango. For those who haven't tried them yet or never got the
hang of colgadas (excuse the pun) this will be a good introduction. For
those already confident dancing them, there will be some cool
variations for you to play with and a chance to refine your technique.<br />
<br />
The way the workshop will be structured it will be <strong>suitable for anyone</strong> already able to dance crosses, ochos and giros. All skill levels will be suitably challenged :)<br />
<br />
No partner required but pre-booking essential. For full details and to book your place see: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton/colgadas-with-changes-of-embrace" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_self">http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton/colgadas-with-changes-of-embrace</a><br />
<br />
<strong>Group lesson consolidation</strong>:<br />
<br />
While it's a bit quieter over the summer and without the beginner
courses, the Monday lesson will be rolled into the Wednesday lesson,
8pm, upstairs @ The Slug & Lettuce, Southampton. It's been wonderful
teaching at The Wool House and I hope to return, but <strong>no Mondays for now. Please come on Wednesdays instead</strong>. Everyone is welcome.<br />
<br />
(Re last Wed, I think most people are checking the Facebook page for
updates and so will already know, but last week there was a late notice
double booking so we had to move to the Wool House. My apologies if
anyone wasn't able to access the FB for details. Back to normal this
week at The Slug and Lettuce!)<br />
<br />
<strong>Private lessons: </strong><br />
If you want to really accelerate your learning, add that extra bit of
smoothness, style and confidence to your tango, or explore new or old
movements in more detail, private lessons are a great way to do it. For
more info and booking see: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/tango-lessons/private-lessons" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;">http://www.tangolingua.com/tango-lessons/private-lessons</a><br />
<br />
<strong>Get the latest news by liking the FB page: </strong><br />
If you want to know what's coming up in the group lessons, or get early
notice on workshops, social events then the best way to do that is like
the Tango Lingua Facebook page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TangoLingua" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;">https://www.facebook.com/TangoLingua</a><br />
<br />
<strong>Skill swaps:</strong><br />
For a while now I've been experimenting with non-money forms of exchange
for tango lessons. I've found it can be a great way to pick up new
skills, get help, and get to know people better, while at the same time
offer more of a chance to learn tango to those who couldn't otherwise
afford it. Obviously money is a handy thing and I have just as much use
for it as most people, but I recognise that payment for lessons (or
paying the usual price) isn't always an option, and I really love
sharing what I know and helping people find joy in their tango dancing,
so I'm happy to do skill or resource swaps as well. Things I'm
interested in at the moment include: help with marketing and event
organizing, locally produced organic food, learning Spanish, physio and
sports massage, clothes alterations, and learning other dance forms from
professionals (e.g. salsa, jive, contemporary, jazz). If you think you
would like to offer something along those lines in return for learning
tango, get in touch!<br />
<br />
<strong>Travels:</strong><br />
Just a few words on my plans. I feel drawn to go exploring around
different countries for a bit, not least to continue my learning and
development in tango and other dances. I do plan to return, but can't
say exactly when that will be.. I will miss all my students in
Southampton and other places, I've got so much enjoyment working with
everyone and sharing a bit of what I know. And a huge thank you to
Claudia for assisting so well with the teaching these last months. The
Wed lessons will continue until the end of August (check <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TangoLingua" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_self">FB page</a> for updates) and private lessons will also be available until then. I'll be posting updates from time to time on my adventures <a href="https://www.facebook.com/joehuds0n" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_self">here</a> (feel free to add me) and other places.<br />
<br />
<strong>What to do if you want to carry on learning tango? </strong><br />
For lessons there are at least two other schools in the Southampton area: <a href="http://tracieslatinclub.co.uk/" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_self">TLC</a> and <a href="http://www.nutango.com/" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_self">Nu Tango</a> If there are other options I'll let you know.. :)<br />
There are also regular social dances organized by them and others.<br />
Practice is also crucial if you want to develop a smooth and varied
style. For that I recommend either joining a local practica (practice
session) or starting your own as as group. If you want to tips on doing
that, get in touch.<br />
<br />
<br />Take care, and I hope to see you soon,<br />
Joe<br />
Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-72823861615118093352013-06-20T18:36:00.002+01:002013-06-20T18:36:44.363+01:00'Sexy leg wraps and ganchos' workshop on Sunday 30th June, new venue, and other newsIt's been a while since I sent out a newsletter, I hope you're well and enjoying your dancing.<br /><br /> I've just made a little <strong>preview video </strong>for the upcoming <strong>'sexy leg wraps and ganchos' workshop on Sunday 30th June.</strong> Check it out here: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152972729125424" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;">https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10152972729125424</a><br /> If you'd like to learn how to dance these movements with confidence and style, you can find full details and booking info on the workshop here:<br /><a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton/sexy-leg-wraps-and-ganchos" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;">http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton/sexy-leg-wraps-and-ganchos</a><br /> (No partner needed, but pre-booking required)<br /><br /><strong>Venue change for Mondays and a new arts project:</strong><br /> The Monday lessons are now at the beautiful Wool House building, on the corner of Bugle Street, near Red Funnel Ferries. If you don't already know about it, it's a stunning, 15th century, grade 1 listed building. See a map here: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/find-us" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;">http://www.tangolingua.com/find-us</a><br /><br /> Most of you will know Claudia. Well she's running a rather exciting community centric arts project there: "This summer, Element Arts will open the space to the public, to host a variety of activities from exhibitions to workshops, loosely based around the stories and heritage of this building since it was built in early 15th century". Join the FB page for more details: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Wool-House-Project/161866223995816" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;">https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Wool-House-Project/161866223995816</a><br /> The main program will be starting from July, but already you can enjoy tango there on Monday evenings :) Same time, 8pm, with practica after the lesson.<br /> And yes, there are also plans afoot for some milongas..<br /><br /><strong>No new beginner courses over the summer:</strong><br /> Both Monday and Wednesday group classes will be for students already with some experience of tango for the duration of the summer. (If you are a complete beginner and want to start learning now, you may want to consider taking a couple of private lessons before joining the group class). As numbers tend to be a bit lower over the summer, if you come along you'll enjoy the learning benefits of a small group class :)<br /><br /><strong>Private lessons: </strong><br /> If you want to really accelerate your learning, add that extra bit of smoothness, style and confidence to your tango, or explore new or old movements in more detail, private lessons are a great way to do it. For more info and booking see: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/tango-lessons/private-lessons" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;">http://www.tangolingua.com/tango-lessons/private-lessons</a><br /><br /><strong></strong><strong>Get the latest news by liking the FB page: </strong><br /> If you want to know what's coming up in the group lessons, or get early notice on workshops, social events then the best way to do that is like the Tango Lingua Facebook page: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TangoLingua" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;">https://www.facebook.com/TangoLingua</a><br /><br /><strong>Skill swaps:</strong><br /> For a while now I've been experimenting with non-money forms of exchange for tango lessons. I've found it can be a great way to pick up new skills, get help, and get to know people better, while at the same time offer more of a chance to learn tango to those who couldn't otherwise afford it. Obviously money is a handy thing and I have just as much use for it as most people, but I recognise that payment for lessons (or paying the usual price) isn't always an option, and I really love sharing what I know and helping people find joy in their tango dancing, so I'm happy to do skill or resource swaps as well. Things I'm interested in at the moment include: help with marketing and event organizing, locally produced organic food, learning Spanish, physio and sports massage, and learning other dance forms from professionals (e.g. salsa, jive, contemporary, jazz). If you think you would like to offer something along those lines in return for learning tango, get in touch!<br /><br /> That's it.Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-85468323945112408222013-02-18T03:22:00.000+00:002013-02-18T16:06:47.756+00:00Introduction to Aerial Technique in Tango - workshop notes<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Content overview:</b></span><br />
<ul>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
increasing and mirroring contact
to set up good conditions for flight</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
lengthening, reaching and
supporting – not jumping or throwing</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
using the hips and core for
stability and balance</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
smooth, safe landings</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
putting it into practice with 3
aerial movements:</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
a suspended leap along the line
of dance</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
leg wrap into knee lift, with and
without turn</div>
</li>
<li><div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
walking on invisible stairs</div>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3>
</h3>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Workshop plan:</b></span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
Aim and intro: to give a clear and
accessible introduction to the techniques for flying and lifting in
tango, with an emphasis on safety, smoothness and making it easy.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
length: 4 hours, including break time.<br />
<br /></div>
<h3 class="western">
Warm up:</h3>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
include ankle, calf and thighs as well
as back exercises.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Exercise: </b>Lift off on parallel
bars movement – lengthen legs and spine towards ceiling, while
pushing shoulders and arms down (as if pushing up and suspending body
on parallel bars).</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Exercise: </b>Squat exercise – as
above, keeping shoulders down, but thinking about lifting from the
hip. Knees stay slightly bent.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Go into above two movements from
walking and from a change of direction.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Exercise: </b>Stand side by side
arms around waist of parnter. Slowly take their weight until you are
entirely supporting them. Do slowly and keep the lift very low. Try
both sides. The more surface area in contact, the easier it tends to
be. Lifter lowers hips, draws and counterbalances.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Note:</b> When you dance tango the
aim is generally to stay together. This is especially crucial when
one of you is in the air :) Doing this in a safe and comfortable way
is a <i>shared responsibility</i> for both leader and follower. The
approach we'll explore today is an application of the mirroring
concept which one key to the Tango Lingua approach. This is where the
quality and direction of intent from the leader is mirrored (i.e.
reflected) by the follower through the points of contact. Now let's
get a feel for that on the ground first.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Exercise:</b> mirroring game,
standing, fixed embrace, then with shifting embrace. Practice
releasing and re-establishing contact points.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Exercise: </b><span style="font-weight: normal;">use
above concept to increase contact through a more wra</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">p</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">ping
embrace through a forward ocho on the closed side </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">from
side step</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">. </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">Take
into a forward walk for follower and leader.</span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">At
this </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">stage</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">
we're </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">almost </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">ready
to approach our first flight. But first some important safety </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">and
technique points.</span></div>
<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b><u>When flying do not jump</u> </b><span style="font-weight: normal;">I
cannot emphasize that </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">too
much</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">. If you jump </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">then
someone has to catch you. </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">If
they're not 100% ready to do that on your way down, and in the
perfect position, their body will be subject to a large shock and
possible injury. </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">It will
also look, let's call it un-smooth. </span>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
What's the alternative to jumping?
Lengthening and stretching up, thus raising your centre of gravity,
making you much easier to lift.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<u><b>When lifting do not throw</b></u><span style="font-weight: normal;">
</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">Similarly for leaders, do
not throw </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">your follower into
the air</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">, lift </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">in
a smooth, controlled fashion</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">.
</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">Sudden acceleration into the
air will lead to unpredictable results.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i><span style="font-weight: normal;">(Maybe
for </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">some</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">
really big lifts a jump can help, but we're doing small ones today
and will focus on lengthening the body rather than jumping)</span></i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Question:</b> what do the shoulders
and arms do, and what would happen if they came up during attempted
take off?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
(should stay locked down, arms hold
frame while airborne, else shoulders get lifted instead of you)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Repeat lift off on parallel bars and
squat style movements.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i>Demonstrate first lift: </i><i>suspended
leap in line of dance.</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Before you try it, you'll want to know
about how to land :)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Just as the follower reaches and
lengthens towards the ceiling when taking off, the follow reaches and
lengthens towards the floor, the very instant they feel the leader is
beginning to take them down. Do not delay.
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
For leaders, make sure the follower is
well supported, all the way down. Do not drop at the last moment
before they reach the ground. Hence the need to be really in tune
with each other.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Question:</b> Why might it be
difficult for the leader if the follower doesn't reach for the
ground, once the leader is indicating a decent?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
(they have to carry the follower for
longer, bend legs more and potentially have a greater strain on their
back or risk of dropping the follower)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Leader tip: </b><span style="font-weight: normal;">As
with the warm up exercise, it's generally easier to lift with the
hips slightly under your partner. </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">When
lifting make sure your spine is straight and not stooped over, align
the shoulders back and down and engage the gluts and lower abs, to
give extra stability to the spine.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Leader tip:</b><span style="font-weight: normal;">
step close to the follow on the step preceding the lift.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Leader tip:</b><span style="font-weight: normal;">
to make it easy for the follower to land on the other leg, making one
big arching movement (the slow-motion leap), avoid pushing you hip
thro</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">ugh</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">,
w</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">hich</span><span style="font-weight: normal;">
will tend to send their hips forward, </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">making
it more likely they'll </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">land
on the back leg again (the slow-motion hop...). </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">To
some degree you can also use the open side of the embrace to give a
slight tilt toward the front leg.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Question:</b> How can you get your
hips slightly lower than the followers using the mirroring principle
for contact?</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
(release, move, reconnect – in a
smooth way)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Follower tip:</b> Just as the leader
is tensing their body when lifting you, if you do the same (mirroring
the quality of contact) you'll feel lighter and easier to move in the
air.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Follower tip:</b> to land on the
front leg, making one continuous slow-motion leap, picture you legs
following the long arcing motion of the leader's frame as they lift
you. Use your back muscles to balance the tension in your abs to
avoid your hips tilting forward, and allow the back leg to bend
slightly after take off – as you would naturally do if really making a
leap. </div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Follower tip:</b> For added
smoothness and style, let the arc of your hip and legs follow behind
the arc of your chest. i.e. use contra-posture to give a beautiful
cascading effect to the movement.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Movement 1:</b> Practice 'suspended
leap'.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i>Break time 20 mins for food and
drink</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Quick warm up </b>
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Introduce walking on invisible stairs
movement. Cycling, stretching for floor on each cycle, staying in
time with music. Secret to smooth take-off and landing is timing, and
leader and follower posture. Each cycle could be a landing, reaching
for floor.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Movement 2:</b> Demo how to make
more seamless take off (disguise adjustment of embrace during turn).</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Practice movement.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Movement 3:</b> Demo leg wrap into
knee lift.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Counter balance, then lift.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Discuss role of compression is frame to
'freeze' followers free leg before lift.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Explore criticality of leading and
following accurate step direction and length before the lift.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Show variations with turn and 'dip'.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>General demo and Q & A.</b></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>practice time.</b></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Feedback and questions welcome. Feel free to use these notes for your own purposes. If you'd like to go over any of the points or techniques with me in person, or have me come and teach this or similar to a group, just get in touch :)</span><br />
<br />
[This was actually my first time presenting an aerial technique workshop, and it turned out everyone there was a woman. With a mixed group I would have been impressed with what everyone accomplished, but given it was all ladies this time (where were you men?), I'm doubly happy :) Just goes to show, with the proper technique lifting is no problem - even when they tried lifting me a few times (90kg+)!]<br />
<br />Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-63273206959084539092013-02-18T03:16:00.000+00:002013-02-18T03:16:14.215+00:00Introduction to tango teaching course - session 1 notesFor an overview of the Introduction to tango teaching course see: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/courses/intro-to-tango-teaching-roleplay-and-fundamentals-review">http://www.tangolingua.com/courses/intro-to-tango-teaching-roleplay-and-fundamentals-review</a><br />
<h3 class="western">
Session 1:</h3>
<div class="western">
Outlook and attitude:</div>
<div class="western">
What is your aim in teaching?</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="4" cellspacing="0" style="width: 100%px;">
<colgroup>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="2" style="border: 1px solid #000000; padding: 0.1cm;" valign="TOP" width="100%"><div align="CENTER" class="western">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Aims
of teaching</b></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="TOP">
<td style="border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; border-left: 1px solid #000000; border-right: none; border-top: none; padding-bottom: 0.1cm; padding-left: 0.1cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm;" width="50%"><div align="CENTER" class="western" style="background: #ff3333;">
<span style="font-size: small;">focus
is on me and how others see me </span>
</div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; border-left: 1px solid #000000; border-right: 1px solid #000000; border-top: none; padding-bottom: 0.1cm; padding-left: 0.1cm; padding-right: 0.1cm; padding-top: 0cm;" width="50%"><div align="CENTER" class="western" style="background: #3deb3d;">
<span style="font-size: small;">focus
is on the student and their learning process </span>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr valign="TOP">
<td height="506" style="border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; border-left: 1px solid #000000; border-right: none; border-top: none; padding-bottom: 0.1cm; padding-left: 0.1cm; padding-right: 0cm; padding-top: 0cm;" width="50%"><div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
Status</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
prestige</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
popularity</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
respect</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
sex appeal</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
authority</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
entertaining yourself</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
<i>thus less attention for the quality of the learning experience
for the student.</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
Some indications of the above aims, identified in the session:</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* attention seeking, showing off</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* putting students down, or being overly critical</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* lecturing</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* habitually seeking assurance or expressing self-doubt (e.g. “I'm
probably not explaining this clearly, sorry” or “There's
probably a much better way of doing this” (takes focus away from
student's learning, invites their doubt in you, or leads to them
blaming themselves for not understanding)</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* unwillingness to admit that they don't have the answer to
something, or that they might be mistaken.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* frustration with students for not getting it</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* apathy about students learning</div>
</td>
<td style="border-bottom: 1px solid #000000; border-left: 1px solid #000000; border-right: 1px solid #000000; border-top: none; padding-bottom: 0.1cm; padding-left: 0.1cm; padding-right: 0.1cm; padding-top: 0cm;" width="50%"><div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
Serving others</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
sharing the joy of knowledge</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
helping other find skill and
confidence</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
helping others access and
explore their creativity</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
helping student to not care
about making mistakes (because they're great aids of learning)</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
helping others have fun</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
<i>thus more attention on
what works well or less well for getting good learning results –
helping you become a better teacher and learn more.</i></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
Some indications of the above
aims, identified in the session:</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* observing student
comprehension of guidance.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* not showing frustration</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* using language accessible
to students</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* providing balance of
encouragement and points for improvement.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* respecting student's
ability when dancing with them</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* exercising tact and
sensitivity when students get frustrated with themselves or each
other.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* willingness to say 'I don't
know' (and where appropriate 'let's do an experiment to find
out').</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 0.1cm; margin-right: 0.1cm;">
* genuine care and attention
for student's learning, but without taking the student's dancing
abilities as a personal reflection on them.</div>
<div class="western">
<br /></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0.01cm;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="western">
<b>By focusing on the student and the quality of
their learning experience with you, much more than your status as a
teacher, you put yourself in the best position to do a great job.</b></div>
<div class="western" style="font-weight: normal;">
In practice, perhaps
no-one is going to be 100% focused in the right columns all the time,
but if that is our aim, we'll tend to do the best job of teaching
that we can.</div>
<h3 class="western">
Students teaching other students</h3>
<div class="western">
<b>Teach what you have confidence in → according
to how you have been taught → <i>until</i> you've refined and
tested other ideas that work better.</b></div>
<div class="western" style="font-weight: normal;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="background: #ffffa9; padding: 12px;">
<h3 class="western">
Conflict resolution and constructive critique.
</h3>
<div class="western" style="background: transparent; margin-bottom: 0.2cm;">
<span style="font-size: small;">This will be the subject of a
later session, but since it came up in discussions a brief
consideration is given here.</span></div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i>Two
students are working together and one says to the other:</i></div>
<div class="western">
<br />
“You're
doing it wrong”</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
The Tango Lingua approach is to celebrate
mistakes, because without them learning would not be possible.
Instead of thinking in terms of 'fault', treat the learning process
as an experiment, note the outcome and try something different.
Enjoy the process of refining what you're doing.</div>
<div class="western">
A possible response to the students above,
addressed to them, or the group as a whole, could be along the lines
of:</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
“With tango you will both learn the most and
have the most fun if you focus on working as a team and just
treating things not going to plan as an opportunity for you <i>both</i>
to learn, rather than focusing on who was right or wrong. Also your
partner is <i>much</i> more able to do a good job of leading or
following you, if they feel relaxed and happy in an embrace with you
– for which a mutual attitude of respect and teamwork tends to
help.”</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
For <b>o</b><b>ffering individual constructive
</b><b>input</b><b> to students, </b><b>that encourages their focus
on learning, rather than on </b><b>having </b><b>ma</b><b>de</b><b>
</b><b>a </b><b>mistake</b>, the following are some example
approaches:<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="western">
“See what it feels like to do it this way ...”</div>
<div class="western">
“To make it even better try ...”</div>
<div class="western">
“Do you prefer how it feels when you do …?”</div>
<div class="western">
“What difference does it make when you do …?”</div>
<div class="western">
“Try it more like ...”</div>
<div class="western">
“Compare these two ways of doing it ...”</div>
<div class="western">
<br /></div>
</div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>* What if you're asked about technique you're not sure
about?</b>
<br />
<div class="western">
Be honest, say 'I don't know.' or 'I'm not sure,
but perhaps it works like …' if you have some idea. Make a note of
questions you don't have the answer for, and try to find out so you
can answer them next time.</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
* Some students may take the attitude 'you're just
a student like me, why should I listen to you?' or 'I will eat my
shoes before I let you tell me how to dance'.</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
Remember you're there to offer your understanding,
according to what you've been taught. If students seem to have an
issue with it, if you approach the situation in a humble and honest
way, explaining 'this is what I've been shown by my teacher, who has
asked me to share that understanding with you, but it's up to you if
you want to listen or not', then other students are more likely to
pay attention, compared to if you just tried to take up a position of
authority.</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
In practice, a class that is organized with
teaching assistants, will be clearly presented as such, so all the
students know what to expect at the beginning of the class. E.g. “I
will be asking some of my more experienced students to assist in
teaching you during the class, where they will share the same
techniques that I have taught them. This is to make sure everyone
gets the most input from experienced dancers possible, with
consistent technique, and thus the best learning experience.”</div>
<h3 class="western">
The same knowledge presented in different ways</h3>
<div class="western">
While the core technique you'll be practicing and
sharing will hopefully be the same, people often have different ways
of understanding the same thing, and thus different explanations,
analogies, ways of demonstrating or use of tactile input will work
for different students. So you will use your intelligence to select
different approaches as called for.</div>
<div class="western">
<b><br /></b>
<b>Discussion point:</b> Relating to the above,
students have different rates of learning. What attitudes might help
you avoid getting frustrated, or becoming impatient with them? What
would the affects of getting impatient with them be?</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
Some comments from the session about the likely
affects on students were:</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-left: 1.25cm;">
They'll feel
frustrated, upset, or angry with themselves.<br />
They wouldn't enjoy
the lesson.<br />
They wouldn't come back.</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
In conversation attitudes to avoid frustration
were located on the green column (focus on student and their learning
process), while it was agreed a self-focus of the teacher more easily
leads to frustration, because a student 'not getting it' becomes a
personal reflection of the teacher, in the teacher's mind.</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
The question was raised 'Are there some people who
are just never going to get it?'</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
If the focus is solely on technique, there will be
some people who really struggle with it despite different approaches
at helping them learn. In these cases it's worth remembering there
are various reasons why a person would do tango, including all the
social elements. There are also different levels of technical
understanding and ability, and for some a very basic level allows
them to get the satisfaction from tango that they want – which is
OK. If though the student remains frustrated with themselves, talking
with them about their expectations, what they're prepared to put in
to get there, along with the joy to be had from simply walking in an
embrace, may help.</div>
<h3 class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0.21cm; margin-top: 0.4cm;">
Role-play:</h3>
<div class="western">
Teacher teaches for a few minutes, emphasizing
certain attitudes or outlooks from the red (self-focus) column,
participants offer critique identifying the attitude.</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
Participants do the same, teach something for a
couple of minutes, emphasizing a certain attitude from the 'me focus
column'. Other participants act as students and play certain roles,
e.g. 'I don't understand', 'My other teacher didn't do it like that',
'I'm bored with this'.</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
Then repeat the same exercise, trying to imbibe
the 'student learning focus column'. Other participants offer their
feedback.</div>
<h3 class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0.21cm; margin-top: 0.4cm;">
Water
game</h3>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0.2cm;">
What's the idea
behind it?
</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0.2cm;">
When you move through
water you feel the connection/contact of the water with your body at
all times, in all positions. The connection is constant and
consistent. When you dance with that quality of connection the
possibilities for playful musical expression are truly infinite, and
exploring them becomes natural and exciting. Without that consistent
quality of connection, developing your tango technique and expanding
your vocabulary becomes comparatively like stumbling around in the
dark. Thus the water game is a key tool in the Tango Lingua approach
to tango.</div>
<div class="western" style="margin-bottom: 0.2cm;">
The basic level of
the water game uses steady, smooth movement without much focus on
momentum.</div>
<div class="western">
<b>Activity:</b> Go through the basic level water
game.</div>
<div class="western">
<br />
Other participants go through aspects of the water
game. E.g. side steps together, forward steps for follower, teaching
the rest of the group and identifying common misunderstandings from
beginner students which the others act out.</div>
<br />Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-62270663239116907302013-02-05T19:31:00.000+00:002013-02-05T19:33:06.669+00:00Two unique learning opportunities and a new performance videoThe snow came and went, but tango continues. I hope you've been enjoying
your dancing (and life beyond dancing). Here's the latest 'skinny'.<br />
<br />
I have two <b>unique learning opportunities</b> to announce, coming up very soon:<br />
The first is a 6 week course for those who are interested in <b>developing their tango skills through gaining some practical teaching experience</b>.<br />
<br />
The second is a workshop on <b>flying and lifting movements in tango</b>.<br />
<br />
I also have a little <b>video of my latest performance in London</b>, which I thought you might enjoy watching. Read on for the link.<br />
<br />
For those wanting to take their first steps in tango, or deepen their
understanding of the basics which underpin the rest of the dance, the
next 6 week Argentine Tango Fundamentals course starts on Monday 18th
Feb. Details here: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/courses/argentine-tango-fundamentals" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/courses/argentine-tango-fundamentals</a><br />
<br />
For those nearing the end of their first 6 weeks and wondering what
comes next, your learning will continue on the Monday sessions, as you
reinforce the fundamental technique, adding confidence and playful
possibilities with practice - repetition is the key to really 'getting
it'.<br />
<br />
Additionally you are also invited to the Wed sessions where we focus on
more of the modern elements of tango, including leg wraps, shared axis
movements and other wonderful things :)<br />
<br />
<h3>
Workshops</h3>
On <b>Sunday 17th Feb</b>, there will be a <b>workshop on flying and lifting movements in tango</b>. Here you have the <i>rare opportunity</i> to discover how these beautiful movements work - while performing them with safety, smoothness and elegance.<br />
<br />
The workshop will be held in Southampton at StudioSo, <b>1-5pm</b>. You do not need a partner to book. Places limited to 12 people only. For full details and booking please see: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton/introduction-to-aerial-technique" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton/introduction-to-aerial-technique</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton/introduction-to-aerial-technique" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Aerial technique tango workshop. Flying and lifting." height="432" src="https://d2q0qd5iz04n9u.cloudfront.net/_ssl/proxy.php/http/gallery.mailchimp.com/5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0/images/intro_to_aerial_technique_workshop.png" style="border: none; display: inline; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; height: 432px; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; outline: none; text-decoration: none; text-transform: capitalize; width: 240px;" width="240" /></a><br />
<br />
For anyone who will be in London or fancies traveling I'm running another workshop with <a href="http://www.doniandliz.com/" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Liz Bayley</a> on <b>Sunday 10th February, 2-5pm (followed by a 1 hour practica) in Highbury & Islington</b>. This one is titled 'Playful Barridas for him and her'. For full details and booking see: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/london/10th-feb-tango-magic" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/london/10th-feb-tango-magic</a><br />
<img align="none" alt="Tango Magic workshop, learn Argentine Tango in London with Liz Bayley and Joe Hudson" border="0" height="649" src="https://d2q0qd5iz04n9u.cloudfront.net/_ssl/proxy.php/http/gallery.mailchimp.com/5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0/images/10th_feb_poster.png" style="border: none; display: inline; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; height: 649px; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; outline: none; text-decoration: none; text-transform: capitalize; width: 460px;" width="460" /><br />
<br />
<h3>
Special courses</h3>
As detailed in the <a href="http://tangolingua.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/new-year-tango-news-good-things-to-come.html" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">previous newsletter</a>, I'll be running a <b>very unique 6 week tango course starting on 12th Feb</b>.
It's based on the idea that - with the right kind of approach - helping
someone else to learn something helps you to learn what you're teaching
even better, as well as leading to more knowledge being shared and
ultimately everyone becoming more of the dancer they want to be. Places
are limited.<br />
<br />
The course is an <b>introduction to tango teaching</b>, with
role-play and fundamental technique review. It's aimed at anyone who has
been tangoing regularly for at least 8 months and thinks they might
enjoy getting some practical teaching experience. If you're curious
about it, please check out: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/courses/intro-to-tango-teaching-roleplay-and-fundamentals-review" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/courses/intro-to-tango-teaching-roleplay-and-fundamentals-review</a><br />
<br />
<h3>
Performance video</h3>
On <b>Saturday January 26th</b>, I was in London taking part in the <a href="http://www.wellcomecollection.org/about-us.aspx" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Wellcome Collection</a>'s final 'Rhythm is a Dancer' series event with Liz Bayley. (Details here: <a href="http://www.wellcomecollection.org/whats-on/events/lets-get-physical.aspx" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.wellcomecollection.org/whats-on/events/lets-get-physical.aspx</a>)
This involved being a part of a panel discussion of professional
dancers and performers, and giving a tango demonstration to the
audience. It was great fun, and I managed to get hold of a little clip
of our improvised tango performance, which you can see here:<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9z0teyEsLRs" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9z0teyEsLRs</a><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/9z0teyEsLRs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe> <br />
<br />
Do you like it?<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Shoes:</b> A few students have asked about what
shoes to wear for tango. Essentially if it doesn't mark the floor, is
comfortable and allows you to pivot easily then it's fine. Generally any
sole that isn't rubber will allow you to pivot, e.g. leather, suede or
plastic. If you want something specifically for dancing, then you can go
online for the cheapest prices (google 'dance shoes'). If you want to
buy from a local shop, there's a dancewear shop in Woolston (<a href="http://www.roynondancewear.co.uk/" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.roynondancewear.co.uk/</a>)
where I got my very first pair. I wear ballroom practice shoes, jazz
trainers and ballet pumps and they all work pretty well. You can also
get a shoe that has a great fit and feel and then buy a suede sole to
stick on from a cobbler. For followers I'd recommend having both a pair
of flats and heals, ideally. I hope that helps :)<br />
<br />
<strong>Can't afford lessons?</strong> Finally, I know that times are hard for many people with the present economic conditions. If you'd really love to come to more lessons but can't afford it, send me an email to see if we can come to an arrangement, e.g. a skill swap.Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-9120578794231634552013-01-09T17:39:00.003+00:002013-01-09T17:46:52.286+00:00New Year tango news, good things to come.Happy New Year! I hope you're well, enjoyed some time relaxing with friends and family and are already successfully working off the mince pies (if perhaps you over-indulged, like I did). Read on for the first Tango Lingua update of the year..<br />
<br />
<h3>
In brief</h3>
<b>Monday sessions</b> have resumed. A big welcome to all the new beginners! For existing students, remember this is also a mixed class, so you're welcome to come too.<br />
<br />
<b>Wednesday sessions resume this evening, 8pm, upstairs at the Slug and Lettuce</b>. (See <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/find-us" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/find-us</a> for map)<br />
<br />
Workshops and more coming up soon!<br />
<br />
For those who I couldn't see in Dec, and any others interested, I now have some space to take new <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/tango-lessons/private-lessons" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">private lesson bookings</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
2012 review</h3>
Let me first say what a thoroughly enjoyable occasion the Xmas social was, thanks to everyone to made it along! It was great to have the opportunity to get to know each other a bit better.<br />
<br />
Of course for some who came, it was the first ever milonga attended, so a big congratulations there for diving in and having fun!<br />
<br />
Which brings me to the Xmas special sessions - a chance to try some dynamic nuevo tango movements. It seems that those who came really enjoyed it, so if you'd like more of that sort of thing (with the usual breakdown of technique - of course) let me know.<br />
<br />
As for the rest of the year, well, it was rather eventful on the tango front. One of the clear highlights of my whole year has been the pleasure I've had teaching everyone, and seeing much progress in your dancing.<br />
<br />
As a tango school, Tango Lingua is still young, beginning in 2010, and I feel I've grown along with my students since then. 2012 was the year professional performances and even a bit of film work started coming in, which was quite exciting for me. I was also very happy to do some traveling again to further develop my own skills, at the teachers training event with Homer and Cristina Ladas in Holland.<br />
<br />
In 2012 I started offering afternoon workshops in Southampton, which I've got some very positive feedback about (so you can look forward to more of those in the months to come), as well as in London.<br />
<br />
Towards the end of the year there was an unfortunate and unplanned series of venue changes, sometimes a new venue each week (and not always with such a great floor)... Well since November things have been settled, I'm extremely relieved to say!<br />
<br />
<b>Currently we have two lovely venues.</b> On Mondays the StudioSo dance studio, and on Wednesdays upstairs at the Slug and Lettuce (see <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/find-us" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/find-us</a> for a map). Both offer a fantastic space to learn and dance. So if you've not come for a while because you found the constant venue changes last year a bit much, but you're still interested in learning tango, come and check out our beautiful new venues!<br />
<br />
<b>Lift sharing to milongas</b> (social dances) often makes the journey so much more doable, so I set up an editable map to help students and dancers do just that:<br />
The map tool, with a simple guide to using it, can be viewed here: <a href="http://goo.gl/maps/eu6rT" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/maps/eu6rT</a> and the link to be a collaborator (i.e. add your details and make use of it), once you're signed in to your Google account is:<br />
<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF&msa=0&msid=203369741653538269829.0004cddae1db464233973" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF&msa=0&msid=203369741653538269829.0004cddae1db464233973</a><br />
If you have any problems with it let me know! If everyone who has asked me about it so far, added their details it would be a well populated page, so do please put yourself on the map!<br />
<br />
Lastly, towards the end of the year I set in motion a plan to evolve the Tango Lingua approach to teaching and learning tango.. more of that later.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Workshops</h3>
Following on from the success of last year's 'Technique Booster' workshop series, I'm planning on the next one for the <b>3rd weekend of February (16th, 17th)</b>. Now, as several people have asked about it before, I'd like to put the idea out there of making this a<b> 2 day event</b>, where we'd run both Saturday and Sunday afternoons from 1-5pm. If you like the sound of that, let me know now. Otherwise it will be the usual single afternoon workshop (day TBC).<br />
<br />
For anyone who will be in London or fancies traveling I'm running another tango workshop with <a href="http://www.doniandliz.com/" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Liz Bayley</a> on <b>Sunday 10th February, 2-5pm (followed by a 1 hour practica) in Highbury & Islington</b>. For full details and booking see: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/london/10th-feb-tango-magic" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/london/10th-feb-tango-magic</a><br />
<img align="none" alt="Tango Magic workshop, learn Argentine Tango in London with Liz Bayley and Joe Hudson" height="264" src="http://gallery.mailchimp.com/5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0/images/tangomagic__10thfeb_560.png" style="background-color: white; border: medium none; display: inline; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; height: 264px; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; outline: medium none; text-decoration: none; text-transform: capitalize; width: 462px;" width="462" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
A new way of teaching and learning tango</h3>
Back in December I fielded the idea of offering the opportunity for students to develop their tango learning, by also assisting in teaching elements of tango to other students.<br />
<br />
From my martial arts background this was the model for each club. E.g orange belts taught the white belts, greens taught the oranges, blues the purples, and so on, while the sensei supervised, organized the content of the class, made corrections to each group and did demos. It actually worked extremely well (and most likely has done for centuries). When you teach something, with an attitude of sincerely wanting to pass on understanding in the best way you can, you re-learn what you're teaching, thus deepening your knowledge.<br />
<br />
It's not about having to be a master to teach, it's about sharing what knowledge you do have, and helping yourself by helping others.<br />
<br />
<b>Since Dec I've had a range of feedback</b>, most of it very positive, but also some concerns. The concerns as I understood them centered around, on the one hand being afraid of being in the spot light and taking on some of the responsibility of a teacher (when you came to learn in the first place!), or not knowing where to begin. On the other, some students have had experiences in other tango schools where students tried to teach them or a friend something and it resulted in confusion, frustration, upset or a loss of confidence - which obviously I'd like to avoid here!<br />
<br />
<b>Firstly, if you decide you'd like to try this, clear guidance will be given and you will start very gently.</b> In fact I plan to run <b>special coaching sessions</b> for those who want to take part in this. I've already had about half a dozen express interest, so if you can confirm that to me ASAP then I'll go ahead and organize things. My belief is that these sessions will help avoid the potential pitfalls of a more distributed teaching and learning model, while maximizing the benefits for everyone.<br />
<br />
<b>What will the special coaching sessions involve you ask?</b> (Cue evil laughter "mwahahahaaaa"). Well... a mixture of role play, practicing teaching the rest of the group different elements of tango, giving each other constructive feedback, focused revision of basic technique so you can reliably and clearly pass it on, as well as dance it, along with exploring how different approaches and attitudes to teaching affect the learning outcomes.<br />
<br />
It will be fun, challenging and priced to be affordable for anyone who is interested. It will most likely be organized as a 6 week course on a Tuesday evening, but that's subject to change. The sessions will be open to anyone who has completed a Tango Lingua beginner course, or otherwise been coming to lessons regularly for a few months.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Other news</h3>
On <b>Saturday afternoon, January 26th</b>, I've been invited by the <a href="http://www.wellcomecollection.org/about-us.aspx" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Wellcome Collection</a> in London once again to perform in their 'Rhythm is a Dancer' series with Liz Bayley. The last one was a great success, and they asked us<b> back for the finale event</b>!<br />
Details here: <a href="http://www.wellcomecollection.org/whats-on/events/lets-get-physical.aspx" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.wellcomecollection.org/whats-on/events/lets-get-physical.aspx</a><br />
<a href="http://www.wellcomecollection.org/whats-on/events/lets-get-physical.aspx" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Move your Soul" height="239" src="http://gallery.mailchimp.com/5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0/images/move_your_soul484c1c9d0676.jpg" style="border: medium none; display: inline; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; height: 239px; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; outline: medium none; text-decoration: none; text-transform: capitalize; width: 460px;" width="460" /></a><br />
If you're interested in coming, it's free, but you need to book now (see above link).<br />
<br />
Re the Tango Tone-Up classes, due to other work commitments I'm having to put them on hold for now, as fun as they've been. I'm really sorry to disappoint anyone who was looking forward to them continuing. I hope to return to the concept again in the future. Meanwhile if you want to join me for some exercise you're welcome along to the Southampton Body Weight Training group meetups in the Common, where we meet to do a full body workout on the bars :) Ask me in class if the want more info on that.<br />
<br />
<br />
Enjoy your dancing, take care, and I hope to see you soon,<br />
JoeJoe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-31505441559597721302012-12-07T05:49:00.001+00:002012-12-11T23:09:17.511+00:00Xmas social, special Xmas tango lessons, new widget for milonga lift sharing, performance and other news<span class="c1">I hope you're well. It's another packed newsletter this time, so you
may like to read it over a tea :)</span><br />
<h3>
Xmas social and special Xmas lessons</h3>
<span class="c1">First to
mention is the Tango Lingua Xmas social, this Friday, tomorrow, 7th Dec. For those who
are coming regularly to lessons the date was fixed a while ago. I just wanted to post
this out for anyone who perhaps hasn't been for a while and would like to join
us.</span><br />
<div>
<br />
<span class="c1">Table is booked for 12, </span><b class="c4">from
6pm</b><span class="c1"> but more are welcome! We'll be heading out for
a</span><b class="c4"> buffet meal at 'The Real China'</b><span class="c1"> in Eastleigh, then moving on for some social dancing at Chilworth Hall
(Milonga Melodia) for around 8:30pm.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">You are warmly invited to join us! Come when you can, but if you get
there too late either I or Claudia might have eaten all the tasty food by then (just
warning you).</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">The Real China,</span><br />
<span class="c1">Units L5/6, Swan Centre,</span><br />
<span class="c1">Eastleigh SO50 5FX</span><br />
<a class="c5" href="tel:02380%20617518" target="_blank" value="+442380617518">02380
617518</a><span class="c1"> £12.95 per person I
believe.</span><br />
<span class="c1">(3 minutes walk from Eastleigh train station)</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">Milonga Melodia,</span><br />
<span class="c1">Chilworth Hall,</span><br />
<span class="c1">Chilworth Road, </span><span class="c6">SO16 7JZ</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">If anyone wants to come with me I'll be catching the train from
Southampton Central at 17:35pm. Chaira and Andrea (and possibly also Dawn and John -
not too sure as I'd drunk some port at the time it was discussed) have kindly offered
to give people lifts to and back from the milonga (Hannah can also give lifts to the
milonga). If there is a group left over, a taxi between 4 will be fairly
cheep.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">If you're stuck, give me a call.</span><br />
<br />
<b class="c4"><br /></b>
<b class="c4">On to the <span class="c7">special Xmas tango lesson
menu</span>:</b><br />
<span class="c1">The last 3 sessions of the year will have a special, fun theme - a
cool tango movement or concept to enjoy dancing and possibly raise an eye at the
milongas with. While quite probably unfamiliar to you, each movement will be
carefully taught so you'll really understand and experience how to have fun with
it.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">Last Monday we did </span><b class="c4">reverse step-overs
into a suspended turn resolving in a leg wrap</b><span class="c1">. Nice :) Next
Monday you can look forward to something else equally, if not more, cool. These
are open classes, everyone welcome! (For the usual price of
£8)</span><br />
<br />
<b class="c4">The last lesson this year will be on 17 Dec.</b><span class="c1"> </span><b class="c4">Back on the 7th Jan</b><span class="c1">.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">The Wed sessions at the Slug & Lettuce will resume in the new
year.</span><br />
<br />
<h3>
Workshops</h3>
<span class="c1">A big thank you to everyone who came
to the </span><b class="c4">Dec 1st Technique Booster</b><span class="c1"> workshop! This one we really started to go deeply into the process of moving
easily together in close-embrace, for that delicious 'broadband' connection vs. dial-up
(you had to be there).</span></div>
<div>
<br />
It was a pleasure for me to see everyone finding their way through
this beautiful part of tango. I'm also glad the bottle of Tawny Port and Xmas cake went
down well (thought it might)! (But don't expect the same at the next one ;) ) There
will be another workshop most likely in late January, date TBC.<br />
<br />
<span class="c1">For anyone in the London area, I'm running a workshop
with </span><a class="c8" href="http://www.doniandliz.com/" target="_blank">Liz
Bayley</a><span class="c1">this </span><b class="c4">Saturday afternoon,
4-7pm in Highbury & Islington</b><span class="c1">. For full details and
booking see: </span><a class="c8" href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/london/8th-dec-2012-tango-magic" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua. com/workshops/london/8th-dec-
2012-tango-magic</a><br />
<img align="none" class="c9" height="262" src="http://gallery.mailchimp.com/5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0/images/tangomagic__t560cd1482.png" width="460" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Your own tango lift share map!</h3>
<span class="c1">I've put
together a little map tool for you. It's for anyone who would like to either find or
offer a lift to milongas. On the one hand it's a small detail in a night out dancing,
but on the other it's one of those things that can mean you don't go. Maybe you can't
justify the cost of driving on your own, or perhaps you don't want to inconvenience
anyone by asking for a lift?</span><br />
<span class="c1"><br /></span>
<span class="c1">The truth is there are </span><b class="c4">lots of benefits
to lift sharing</b><span class="c1">, tango related ones too, so I thought I'd try
and help that become a little easier and more organized for our local tango
community.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">The map tool can be view here: </span><a class="c8" href="http://goo.gl/maps/eu6rT" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/maps/eu6rT</a>
<span class="c1"> and the link to be a collaborator (i.e. add your details and
make use of it), once you're signed in to your Google account
is: </span><br />
<a class="c8" href="http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF&msa=0&msid=203369741653538269829.0004cddae1db464233973" target="_blank">http://maps.google.com/maps/ ms?ie=UTF&msa=0&msid=
203369741653538269829. 0004cddae1db464233973</a><br />
<span class="c1"><br /></span>
<span class="c1">If you have any problems with that link let me know!</span><br />
<img align="none" class="c11" height="263" src="http://gallery.mailchimp.com/5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0/images/liftshare_map_tool_sml.jpg" width="460" /><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">It's super simple to use. Put your marker on it and see who's near you
or lies along the tango routes you'd like to travel.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">You do need a Google account to make edits (it's free, quick and easy
to set up if you don't already have one). All the details are explained on the page,
and if you per chance get stuck please let me know.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">I really want to make this easy to use and your feedback would
help!</span><br />
<br />
<h3>
Your tango development (do you feel you're stagnating? or being left
behind?)</h3>
<span class="c1">Let's say you've been coming to tango classes for a few
months or more. How can you assess your progress and which classes are right for
you?</span><br />
<span class="c1"><br /></span>
<span class="c1">Of course what progress means to you will depend on your goals, but
I'd like to offer a suggestion and also say something about how the 2 group classes are
organized.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">The suggestion, for those who are in any way concerned about progress,
is to take an </span><i class="c12">active role</i><span class="c1"> in
your tango development. This means considering what your goals are, and what you'd like to
learn more of or about. What do you want from your tango?</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">If you pass that info onto me, then not only can I help to tailor my
input to you more effectively, but you'll also have a clearer way of assessing your
progress - according to your goals.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">As for the 2 weekly group classes, currently Mondays focus on 'core
technique' (with the exception of the Xmas special sessions) for walking and connecting
in the embrace, working with a vocabulary of forward, side, back, ochos, crosses and
basic decorations.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">While beginners come to this class, it can also be considered an
advanced class in that I will give you as much detailed input to refine your core
technique (thus enabling everything else in tango) as I think will help
you.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">Wednesdays currently focus on more of the modern dance aspects and
influences of tango, including shared axis, free leg movements, ganchos and other
adventurous and in some ways more challenging movements. This is also an open class,
but the level of challenge starts at a higher point.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">The Monday and Wednesday classes are designed to be complementary for
those who attend both.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">Finally, for anyone who might be concerned about picking things up
slowly, I'd like to say that it's not a race and there is no judging panel. I try hard
to tailor the class content to suit a wide range of experience and skill. I also
believe there are distinct learning benefits for everyone with such a mixed class, that
would be hard to get with a class where everyone had the same experience. The key thing
is that you enjoy your learning.</span><br />
<br />
<h3>
A new way of teaching and learning tango</h3>
<span class="c1">This
is one I've been thinking about for quite a while now. In a nutshell it's about
offering the opportunity for students to develop their tango learning, by also
assisting in teaching elements of tango to other students.</span><br />
<span class="c1"><br /></span>
<span class="c1">From my martial arts background this was the model for each club (e.g
orange belts taught the white belts, greens taught the oranges, blues the purples, and
so on, while the sensei supervised, organized the content of the class, made
corrections to each group and did demos). It actually worked extremely well. When you
teach something you re-learn what you're teaching, thus deepening your knowledge. Yet I
don't know of it being used in the UK tango community.</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">It's not about having to be a master to teach, it's about sharing what
knowledge you do have, and helping yourself by helping others. This model is what I'd like to
try a little of in my Tango School. It certainly wouldn't
be obligatory, and there wouldn't be belts as such (can you imagine!). Rather
it's an opportunity for those who are interested. I'd love your feedback on the
idea!</span><br />
<span class="c3"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span class="c3">Other news</span></h3>
<span class="c1">Next Thursday 13th Dec, I've been
invited by the </span><a class="c8" href="http://www.wellcomecollection.org/about-us.aspx" target="_blank">Wellcome Collection</a><span class="c1"> in London to
perform for their Move Your Soul event (part of their Rhythm is a Dancer collection),
with Liz Bayley. Details here: </span><a class="c8" href="http://www.wellcomecollection.org/whats-on/events/move-your-soul.aspx" target="_blank">http://www. wellcomecollection.org/whats-
on/events/move-your-soul.aspx</a><br />
<a class="c8" href="http://www.wellcomecollection.org/whats-on/events/move-your-soul.aspx" target="_blank"><img align="none" alt="Move your Soul" class="c13" height="239" src="http://gallery.mailchimp.com/5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0/images/move_your_soul484c1c9d0676.jpg" width="460" /></a><br />
<span class="c1">If you're interested in coming there will be audience
participation...</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1">Also of note, on the 24/25th November the 3rd </span><a class="c8" href="http://www.tangolingua.com/events/teachers-symposium" target="_blank">Tango
Teachers Symposium</a><span class="c1"> took place in London and was a great
success by all accounts! Thanks to Anthony Howell for kindly hosting this event. The
next one will be back in Southampton early in the new year!</span><br />
<br />
<span class="c1"><br /></span>
<span class="c1">Finally for those currently focusing on their fitness, you may like to
try my new </span><a class="c8" href="http://www.tangolingua.com/tango-tone-up" target="_blank">Tango Tone-Up classes</a><span class="c1"> :)</span><br />
<img align="none" class="c14" height="204" src="http://gallery.mailchimp.com/5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0/images/tango_tone_up_logo_1upHD25b23b.jpg" width="460" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="c1"><br /></span>
<span class="c1">Enjoy your dancing, take care, and I hope to see you
soon,</span><br />
<span class="c1">Joe</span><br />
<br />
<div class="c15">
<br />
ps. I have limited slots available for private lessons again now until 21st Dec, and
then again from the new year.
</div>
</div>
Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-45563691274440504032012-11-03T19:59:00.000+00:002012-11-03T20:02:18.486+00:00Strange but true story, how to get toned the fun and sexy way, xmas social, new dance studio and the last workshop<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=445340986539299543" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Here's a little true story involving a large number of police. I couldn't make this stuff up. Last Monday when I arrived at Mavericks to meet students I found the place surrounded by police, including a van and at least 3 cars; which came as something of a surprise.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">They claimed it was some kind of break in, which seemed odd given the number of them. I don't know the details of what happened at Mavericks, but fortunately as far as the tango went, StudioSo down the road was available. Phew!</span><br />
<br style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">It's a beautiful new bespoke dance studio, and I'm very pleased to say </span><strong style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">I was able to secure StudioSo for the Monday session from now on</strong><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">As for the police, well I tried to talk the officer in charge into taking tango lessons, and while he was kind enough to take the address to pass on to any of my students arriving later, when I suggested he take some lessons I'm sure I saw fear flash across his face... But it's given me the idea that one day yet I may start the Hampshire Constabulary Tango Club. Doesn't it have a ring to it?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Thanks to everyone who walked down the cold street with me on the night to the new venue!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Here's a picture of the StudioSo dance studio, where the Monday lesson will be held from now:</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMoKoDPinZO8UadwkBlzcpIuW1v-4UxxYVfxw_Qlxrh5nAzjtY1Z_eosrrBM4FPgJzMwx2PO9x7VL7ImsoOMSwBPezYgkh1MM8o988LKzUj97mPBbQiB_BgE_oNTmezWlV0-jEMHlu7Xk/s1600/studioso.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMoKoDPinZO8UadwkBlzcpIuW1v-4UxxYVfxw_Qlxrh5nAzjtY1Z_eosrrBM4FPgJzMwx2PO9x7VL7ImsoOMSwBPezYgkh1MM8o988LKzUj97mPBbQiB_BgE_oNTmezWlV0-jEMHlu7Xk/s320/studioso.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">The Wednesday classes continue upstairs at the Slug and Lettuce. See</span><a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=b18d22d9ef&e=6b5650fc52" style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #c01008; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" target="_blank">www.tangolingua.com/find-us</a><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> for full addresses and a map.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Read through to the end for an announcement of a</span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> brand new type of fitness orientated tango class</strong><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> I'm starting on 20th November - </span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">'Tango Tone-Up'</strong><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">...</span><br />
<br />
<h3 style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #202020; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 26px; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 10px;">
Xmas events!<br /> </h3>
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">First up, many of you have expressed interest in having an Xmas meal and dance, so </span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">here's the plan for the Tango Lingua Xmas social:</strong><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=445340986539299543" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=445340986539299543" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Xmas Buffet at the Tiger Lilly Restaurant</strong><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> in Bedford place (buffet menu: </span><a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=f44bc55223&e=6b5650fc52" style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #c01008; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" target="_blank">http://www.the-tiger-<wbr></wbr>lilly.com/UserFiles/Files/p_<wbr></wbr>aC5Lyb.jpg</a><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">), meet there around </span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">6pm</strong><br />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Head on to</span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> Milonga Liso at Pilands</strong><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> (</span><a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=d41e88b000&e=6b5650fc52" style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #c01008; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" target="_blank">http://milongaliso.blogspot.<wbr></wbr>co.uk/</a><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">) for around </span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">8 or 8:30pm</strong><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">Date:</span> either Thursday 6th Dec or Thursday 20th Dec.</strong><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">It's going to be great fun, so please come and join us!</span><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Action required!</strong><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> If you'd like to come,</span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> it's important that you let me know which dates you can make, 6th and/or 20th Dec, asap</strong><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">. Then I can book the restaurant and give them an idea of numbers.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 10px;">Workshop Saturday 1st December</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">The next </span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Technique Booster workshop will be held on Saturday 1st December, 1-5:30pm at Povey's Dance Centre</strong><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">As usual there will be a lot of careful attention and fun focused on technique and how to use it in the your social tango dancing. </span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">The theme for this workshop will be 'simple, elegant tango in close embrace'. </strong><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">For those with experience, expect to add smoothness and finesse to your style. For those who've just finished a beginner course, this is your chance to cement the basics and experience how they can be refined for even more beautiful dancing.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">For more info and pre-booking see:</span><br />
<a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=2b44f90f8f&e=6b5650fc52" style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #c01008; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/<wbr></wbr>workshops/southampton-1st-dec-<wbr></wbr>technique-booster-tango-<wbr></wbr>workshop</a><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">(Note that it's a Saturday this time, rather than the usual Sunday.)</span><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">For an idea of what to expect from the experience, check out the testimonials page:</span><br />
<a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=236400d922&e=6b5650fc52" style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #c01008; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/<wbr></wbr>testimonials</a><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 10px;">Tango Tone-Up</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">What would happen if you combined the </span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">sexiness and style</strong><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> of tango with </span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">effective and fun exercise</strong><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> for toning and body conditioning? </span><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Well, you'd get something like what I'm launching on </span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Tuesday evening, 20th November: <a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=f4613d392e&e=6b5650fc52" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal;" target="_blank">Tango Tone-Up</a> - Get toned the fun and sexy way!</strong><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">It's a brand new class, combining my long-time passions for tango and fitness. I'm really excited about it and hope that you'll come along for the </span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">FREE taster session</strong><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> (and of course come back for more if you enjoy it).</span><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">The first session is absolutely free and suitable for complete novices. So why not bring some friends with you?</strong><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">For full info, booking and a very special offer, see:</span><br />
<a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=4b4277fab9&e=6b5650fc52" style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #c01008; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/<wbr></wbr>tango-tone-up</a><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 10px;">Socials</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">This Saturday 3rd Nov, some of us are heading to </span><strong style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">TLC's Moulin rouge milonga</strong><span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">. Please come and join us for a fun evening out of dancing!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">It's £10 entry, which includes a buffet. 8pm-midnight. If you want to meet there or a bit beforehand let me know :)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">For full details see:</span><br />
<a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=4f913ce3b0&e=6b5650fc52" style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #c01008; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" target="_blank">http://www.tracieslatinclub.<wbr></wbr>co.uk/Events.htm#Milonga</a><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />
<span style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Finally, the weekly classes on Monday and Wednesday evenings will continue until Wednesday 19th Dec. For the timetable see:</span><br />
<a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=ad50406207&e=6b5650fc52" style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #c01008; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/<wbr></wbr>tango-lessons/class-timetable</a><br />
<br style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" />Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-58288664959323197522012-10-13T05:09:00.000+01:002012-10-15T15:38:22.915+01:00Continuing your tango learning on Mondays and WednesdaysThe grand tour of venues in Southampton to hold a tango lesson continues.
With any luck the journey is at a happy rest for a while with the current venues:
Mavericks on Mondays and the Slug and Lettuce on Wednesdays.<br />
<br />
In both cases the floor is pretty decent, and the space much more private
than with the previous venue, so fingers crossed! See <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/find-us" target="_blank">www.tangolingua.com/find-
us</a> for full addresses and a map.<br />
<br />
<h3 class="h3">
Continuing your Leaning</h3>
Firstly, well done to the recent Argentine Tango Fundamentals course graduates! The
next course starts this Monday, 15th Oct. Remember, if you bring a friend, you get a
free lesson! Full details and booking here: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/courses/argentine-tango-fundamentals">http://www.tangolingua.com/courses/argentine-tango-fundamentals</a><br />
<br />
Now, the main topic of this post is <strong>how to continue your tango learning
while attending the weekly classes</strong> on Mondays and Wednesdays.<br />
<br />
If you've been coming regularly on a Monday for a while now, then you'll know
that the feedback and variations you get are different from the what the new
beginners get. The aim being that you continue to be challenged.<br />
<br />
From now on different content will be given in a more organized fashion. The group
will be split into parts at different points in the lesson, with<strong> one group
being introduced to the basics, while the other group(s) are given more challenging and
stimulating variations</strong> and practice of the fundamentals.<br />
<br />
Each lesson will have specific material for students of different experience levels.
<strong>The idea is that even experienced dancers will feel that their tango has
developed over the course of the 6 weeks</strong>.<br />
<br />
So if you'd like to continue your tango learning, you are invited to continue to
attend the Tango Fundamentals course held on the Monday sessions.<br />
<br />
The same concept will apply to the Wednesday classes, which focus on more advanced
tango concepts.<br />
<br />
Lastly on this topic, <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/tango-lessons/question-time" target="_blank">making a habit of asking questions</a> is a great way to
increase your learning.<br />
<br />
<h3 class="h3">
Workshops</h3>
Thanks to all those who came to the Technique Booster workshop in Sept and made it
such a fun occasion! The next one is being planned for the end of Oct or the
beginning of Nov. If you'd like to spend the afternoon developing and refining
your tango, getting in depth with the technique and spending enough time practicing
for it to begin to sink into your body, then this is your chance!<br />
<br />
<strong>If you'd like to attend the next Technique Booster afternoon workshop,
please reply to this email with:</strong><br />
a) your preference for day (Sat, or Sun afternoon)<br />
b) the tango topic(s) you'd most like to work on.<br />
<br />
Thanks!<br />
<br />
Enjoy your dancing, take care, and I hope to see you soon,
<br />
<br />
Joe
Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-25127659791928535662012-09-03T15:02:00.004+01:002012-09-03T15:28:20.569+01:00Last minute venue change for 3rd SeptLast night I was contacted by the Maple Leaf club and informed the venue was now mysteriously closed and all bookings cancelled... which puts them off the Xmas card list. But all was not lost!<br />
<br />
I've spent the last 24 hours hunting for an alternative for tonight. Luckily I found one about an hour ago. I really hope if you're planning to come to the class tonight (and/or later for the social dancing) that you check your email or find this post before leaving later!<br />
<br />
<b>The venue for tonight (Argentine Tango Fundamentals course, and mixed level class), 3rd Sept, is:</b><br />
<br />
Shirely Parish Hall,
<br />
St James Road (just on the corner of Colebrook Ave, a stones throw from the St James church)
<br />
Shirley, <br />
Southampton, SO15 5LW<br />
<br />
See here for a map: <a href="http://goo.gl/0U2ab">http://goo.gl/0U2ab</a><br />
<br />
The times are unchanged, 8-9:15pm for lesson, followed by social dancing. And yes, I will still bring cake as promised!<br />
<br />
<b>Please do not go to the Maple Leaf Club tonight, the lesson is moved to Shirley Parish Hall. </b><br />
<br />
Also due to a lack of venue, this Wednesday class is currently cancelled, but if I can find a venue in time, I'll post a notice on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tango-Lingua/138187809567565">Tango Lingua FB page</a> and the <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/">www.tangolingua.com</a> website, so if you'd like to come that class be sure to check those links.<br />
<br />
<b>However, for next week,</b> 10th Sept, I've arranged for the Monday and Wednesday classes to continue at:
La Margherita Restaurant Bar<br />
1 Town Quay
<br />
Southampton
SO14 2AQ<br />
<br />
If it works out well this could be our regular venue. Fingers crossed.<br />
<br />
Well, that's it. Sorry again for any inconvenience. If you have any trouble finding the place tonight, just give me a call.<br />
<br />Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-1245028434982939132012-08-18T00:25:00.000+01:002012-08-23T04:05:01.808+01:00New venue, giro workshop, new timetable, and the possibility of cake...Hello!<br />
<br />
I hope you're well and have been enjoying some of the belated summer. Here's the low-down on Tango Lingua happenings in the next few weeks.<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">New Core Skills 1 course</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: 14px;">The next<strong> course starts on 3rd September</strong></span>. If you want to revise or clarify the basics of tango, including walking and pivoting, or if you're a complete beginner, this is the course for you. More details and booking here:<br />
<a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/courses/argentine-tango-fundamentals">http://www.tangolingua.com/courses/argentine-tango-fundamentals</a><br />
<br />
Coming to the end of the Core Skills 1 course, and want to save serious money on future lessons? Then consider taking out a subscription: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/tango-lessons/tango-dance-class-subscriptions">http://www.tangolingua.com/tango-lessons/tango-dance-class-subscriptions</a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 18px;">Mini Milongas</span> - After each lesson, until 11pm there will be social dancing, with some nice lighting, and biscuits. Everyone is welcome, especially recent beginners! The music will be a mix of classic tango, neuvo and alternative. Price: £4, or free if you come for the class.<br />
<br />
<h3>
<span class="h2" style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">Technique Booster Workshop 26th August</span></h3>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Thanks everyone who came to the previous workshop in July and made it such fun! The next Technique Booster workshop will be held on <strong>Sunday afternoon August 26th</strong>, just over a week from now. This one will focus on the giro, with variations in timing, order of steps, speed, continuous turns, progression along the line of dance, and more.<br />
<br />
For recent beginners and those not familar with the giro, it is a series of steps where the follower steps around the leader, or where leader and follower step around each other. For you this will be an introduction to this beautiful, classic tango movement.<br />
<br />
For more experienced dancers this will be an opportunity to polish your technique and explore some interesting, fresh and dynamic variations. As always, we get deep down into the technique side of things, and how to make it look and feel beautiful in the dance.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Just £24 for the whole afternoon workshop! For full details and to book now (you must pre-book to attend) see:<br />
<a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton-26th-aug">http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton-26th-aug</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span class="h2" style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">New Venue!</span></h3>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I'm very excited to announce that <strong>Tango Lingua will be relocating, from</strong> <strong>3rd Sept</strong>. From September all group lessons (and maybe the workshops too) will be held at:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 18px;">The Maple Leaf club,</span><br />
16-22 The Polygon, Southampton SO15 2BN<br />
(map <a href="http://goo.gl/xDviK" target="_blank">http://goo.gl/xDviK</a>)<br />
<br />
This newly refurbished venue is right in the centre of Southampton, it has a beautiful wooden dance floor and a rather stylish interior and bar. It even has disco lights :) Oh, and it should be a little easier to park too, for those who drive.<br />
<br />
Lessons will remain at the same time: Mondays and Wednesdays, 8-9:15pm, with the mini-milonga until 11pm.<br />
<br />
I hope that you'll come and help me celebrate the move on 3rd September! There might even be some cake...</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span class="h2" style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;">New class timetable and socials</span></h3>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
It was great to see so many people come to see Lisa off at her leaving do on 25th July. It was a fine night and she is missed. I think she's having fun though, and has found a wonderful apartment, with dance floor (living room) and a swimming pool, while she continues to search for a tango club.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Since now there is a milonga at the end of each class, this is the twice weekly social. So do come along to catch up, chew the fat - even if you've not been for ages - and maybe do some dancing too!<br />
<br />
<strong>Class changes:</strong> Over the last month or so I've been experimenting with the lesson format, and the Monday lessons are now 'mixed level', meaning all experience levels join in the class, along with the beginners. This has the advantage of allowing the beginners to learn with more experienced dancers. The more experienced dancers get to polish the basics while at the same time being given more challenging variations and refinements. So far it's working pretty well. That's the Monday lesson 8-9:15pm.<br />
<br />
On Wednesdays, I've been covering more advanced movements and concepts, and teaching in a style slightly more orientated towards those who are serious about learning tango to a high level, i.e. more practice drills, more repetition, and stricter and more precise attention to technique. So if that sounds like the kind of class you might enjoy, come down on the Wed. It's still mixed level and open to everyone, but expect to be pushed harder than on a Monday.<br />
<br />
One way of looking at it is that the Mondays start at a basic level, with more advanced material given to those who are ready, while the Wednesday classes start at an advanced level, with more basic material given to those who need it. Any questions, just ask!<br />
<br />
<strong>Training opportunity:</strong> Finally, I'd like to put on some special classes for those interested in becoming trainee teachers of beginner students. These will be primarily focused on sharing some methods and concepts I've found helpful in my teaching of the basics, along with some technique training. It will be hard work, but rewarding and fun for those who want to go in this direction. It's aimed at those dancing tango for at least 6 months and dancing regularly in the milongas. If you're interested or know someone who might be, let me know.<br />
<br />
<br />
Take care, and I hope to see you soon,<br />
Joe</div>
Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-21908522784145506572012-07-20T19:09:00.001+01:002012-07-20T19:12:15.148+01:00'Olympic tango', new courses and workshops, mini-milongas and more..<br />
<div style="color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; text-align: left;">
Hello!<br />
As for the summer, well at least the trees aren't thirsty... :)<br />
<br />
I've just returned from 10 days dancing in Holland, with some lovely memories and fresh inspiration. Glad to be back now, and looking forward to seeing you soon.<br />
<br />
Here's a quick summary of what's happening in the next couple of weeks:<br />
<br />
First up, there's a <strong>new 'Core Skills 1' course starting next Monday 23rd July</strong>. If you want to revise or clarify the basics of tango, including walking and pivoting, or if your'e a complete beginner, this is the course for you. More details and booking here:<br />
<a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/courses/core-skills-1" style="color: #c01008;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/<wbr></wbr>courses/core-skills-1</a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 18px;">Mini Milongas</span> - I'm trying a new format to the evenings now at Povey's on Mondays and Wednesdays. There will be a lesson from 8-9:15pm. Then, until 11pm there will be social dancing, with some nice lighting, and biscuits. Everyone is welcome, especially recent beginners! The music will be a mix of classic tango, neuvo and alternative. Price: £4. (If you come for the class then the social dancing is free.)<br />
</div>
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=445340986539299543" name="138a58b843c59765_sec1" style="color: rgb(192, 16, 8) !important; font-weight: normal;">Technique Booster Workshops</a></span><br />
<div style="color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;">
The next Technique Booster workshop will be held on <strong>Sunday afternoon July 29th</strong>. It will focus on interesting combinations of leader and follower secadas, and free leg movements for gancho leg wrap combinations. <span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">For less experienced dancers, simpler variations will be given.</span></div>
<div style="color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;">
As usual, the workshop will be suitable for recent beginners and more experienced dancers alike.</div>
<div style="color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;">
This time it's just £24 for the whole afternoon workshop! For full details and to book now (you must pre-book to attend) see:<br />
<a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton-29th-july" style="color: #c01008;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/<wbr></wbr>workshops/southampton-29th-<wbr></wbr>july</a></div>
<div style="background-color: #fffffb; color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=445340986539299543" name="138a58b843c59765_sec2" style="color: rgb(192, 16, 8) !important; font-weight: normal;">Events and Performances</a></span><br />
<div style="color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;">
Next <strong>Wednesday 25th July</strong> I'll be performing again in London, with Bianca Vrcan who runs the Rojo Y Negro tango school. The 'Olympic Tango' event is free and open to guests. You are welcome to come and watch us dance, to a live piano performance. Details here:<br />
<a href="http://www.cultura.embavenez-uk.org/" style="color: #c01008;" target="_blank">http://www.cultura.embavenez-<wbr></wbr>uk.org/</a></div>
<div style="color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;">
Here's a short promo video of the Platform 33 event in London I performed at in June. Check out the little tango clips from about 3/4s of the way through :)<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/v/10151925960950424" style="color: #c01008;" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/v/<wbr></wbr>10151925960950424</a><br />
<br />
</div>
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=445340986539299543" name="138a58b843c59765_sec4" style="color: rgb(192, 16, 8) !important; font-weight: normal;">'Question time'</a></span><br />
<div style="color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;">
<em>(Once again, in case you missed it on the last newsletter)</em> Here's the idea: If you're keen to learn, each week I invite you to come to me with one tango question after your class. It could a step you're struggling with, a new step you'd like to learn, a general sticking point, something to do with timing or musically. Basically anything tango related you'd like my input on. <strong>I will then spend 5 minutes with you individually on your question</strong>. Besides hopefully encouraging more people to come to class, I really hope this opportunity will encourage you to focus on how you'd like your tango to develop, and assist you in getting there. Now the rest is up to you!</div>
<div style="color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=445340986539299543" name="138a58b843c59765_sec8" style="color: rgb(192, 16, 8) !important; font-weight: normal;">Socials</a></span><br />
<div style="color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;">
This Saturday 21st July, is Lisa's leaving party! It's from 7pm at Povey's Dance Centre. You are warmly invited. If you'd like to come please let me know!</div>
<div style="color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;">
Would <em>you</em> like to organize a tango social? Great! Drop me an email with your idea.</div>
<div style="color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #505050; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: left;">
Take care, and I hope to see you soon,<br />
Joe</div>Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-26522072897398466282012-06-28T01:18:00.002+01:002012-06-28T01:18:46.019+01:00Save money, great upcoming tango events, 'question time', summer break, guest teacher, and more...Summer is here! (Although its doing a fairly good job of disguising itself so far.)<br />
<br />
There's quite a lot of info in this post. So get yourself a tea
and read on for some exciting events, new learning opportunities, plus
some chances to save some money..<br /><br />
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="" name="1382cba9c85a7c43_sec1" style="color: #c01008!important; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none!important;">Workshops and your revision notes</a></span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The workshop on 10<sup>th</sup> June was great fun, if you made it
along, thanks for being a part of it! Hopefully you're feeling the
difference in your dancing at the milongas already. As promised here are
some revision notes I made for you, along with a few related ideas
which you may find helpful:<br />
<a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=c9ee495210&e=6b5650fc52" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Revision notes for 10th June Technique Booster workshop - developing a delicious embrace</a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 22px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;">New workshop</span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The next workshop in Southampton will be on free leg movements and embellishments,
including a variety of leg wraps, ganchos and boleos, along with rulos
for followers. It will help you find more relaxation, freedom and
fluidity in your tango dancing.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
As usual, the workshop will be suitable for recent beginners and more
experienced dancers alike. For those who feel ready there will be the
opportunity to explore some leg wrap and gancho chains.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The date is not yet fixed, so if you'd like to do it, please let me know which of these two dates you can make: <strong>22<sup>nd</sup> July or 29<sup>th</sup> July, Sunday afternoon 1-5:30pm</strong>, followed by a 1 hour practica.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I'm trialling a new price for the workshop in order to make it more
accessible for more dancers. The new price is just £24 for the whole
afternoon workshop!<br />
</div>
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="" name="1382cba9c85a7c43_sec2" style="color: #c01008!important; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none!important;">Events and Performances</a></span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
If anyone is around Deal on the <strong>Friday 29<sup>th</sup> June</strong>, I'll be performing at the <strong>Deal Festival</strong>
in Kent with Sophie Miller. For the opening evening we'll be tangoing
to around 8-9 songs over the evening, including to live music! For more
details on the event please see: <a href="http://www.dealfestival.co.uk/" target="_blank">http://www.dealfestival.co.uk/</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Before that, on <strong>28<sup>th</sup> June</strong>, I'll be performing in London at the <strong>City Arts and Music Project</strong> with Bianca Vrcan for the Platform 33 event. For more details and tickets see: <a href="http://www.platform33.co.uk/" target="_blank">http://www.platform33.co.uk/</a><br />
</div>
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="" name="1382cba9c85a7c43_sec3" style="color: #c01008!important; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none!important;">Summer break</a></span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I'm going away to Holland for some further tango training myself in July, so Wed 11<sup>th</sup> July there will be no class (although Liz might open the hall up for practice), and Monday 9<sup>th</sup> and 16<sup>th</sup> July Liz will be running the beginner class.<br />
</div>
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="" name="1382cba9c85a7c43_sec4" style="color: #c01008!important; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none!important;">'Question time'</a></span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Here's the idea: If you're keen to learn, each week I invite you to
come to me with one tango question after your class. It could a step
you're struggling with, a new step you'd like to learn, a general
sticking point, something to do with timing or musically. Basically
anything tango related you'd like my input on. <strong>I will then spend 5 minutes with you individually on your question</strong>.
Besides hopefully encouraging more people to come to class, I really
hope this opportunity will encourage you to focus on how you'd like your
tango to develop, and assist you in getting there. Now the rest is up
to you!<br />
</div>
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="" name="1382cba9c85a7c43_sec5" style="color: #c01008!important; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none!important;">Invite a friend</a></span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
For a while now I've been running the deal where if you bring 3 other
people to a course you get a free private lesson. I'm now adding to that
a second deal:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Bring a friend and get a free group lesson. If you bring someone new
along to a lesson or to the beginner course, who you think might enjoy
tango, then you get a free group lesson. Bring two people, get two free
lessons, and so on. Simple. So if you want to reduce the cost of your
tango, and help share the joy of this magical dance, get your friends
along!<br />
</div>
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="" name="1382cba9c85a7c43_sec6" style="color: #c01008!important; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none!important;">Save even more money, pay in advance</a></span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Would you like to cut over 12% off the cost of tango lessons? Then now
you can pay in advance. Make a subscription for lessons online, billed
every 8 weeks, and pay only £7 per lesson, rather than the normal £8.
You effectively get a free lesson every 8 weeks!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
If you want to come to more than one lesson a week you can save 25% off
the normal class price! Full time college or university students (or
the unemployed) can get almost 50% off normal lesson prices! Book now on
this page:</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=95a5ed2a1c&e=6b5650fc52" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/<wbr></wbr>tango-lessons/tango-dance-<wbr></wbr>class-subscriptions</a><br />
</div>
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="" name="1382cba9c85a7c43_sec7" style="color: #c01008!important; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none!important;">Guest teacher</a></span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
On <strong>Wednesday 4<sup>th</sup> June</strong>, Sarah Stribley from
Thames Valley Tango school, will be teaching with me. She'll be sharing
some of her knowledge on ladies technique, for making your footwork more
elegant and musical. For the leaders, in this session I'll be showing
you some fancy footwork of your own.<br />
</div>
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="" name="1382cba9c85a7c43_sec8" style="color: #c01008!important; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none!important;">Socials</a></span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
As mentioned in the previous email, Lisa's leaving party is on the <strong>21<sup>st</sup> July</strong>, from 7pm at Povey's. You are warmly invited. If you'd like to come please let me know!</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Would <em>you</em> like to organize a tango social? Great! Drop me an email with your idea.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Take care, and I hope to see you soon,<br />
Joe</div>Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-61344556511489971142012-06-01T02:19:00.000+01:002012-06-01T02:19:08.247+01:00A Jubilee tango performance, some sad news, my first tango film appearance, a new workshop on 10th June, party time, and more!I hope you're enjoying the sun (and haven't gotten too burnt!) and your dancing.<br />
<br />
Here are some of the exciting things that have been happening recently
at Tango Lingua, and what you can look forward to in the coming weeks!<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=445340986539299543" name="137a1b1a760d0c7e_sec1" style="color: #c01008!important; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none!important;">Diamond Jubilee Tango Performance</a></span> This <b>Saturday 2nd June</b>, I've been invited to do a tango performance at the <b>Queen's Diamond Jubilee fundraiser event for The Alliance of Fibromyalgia ME/CFS</b>. I'll be performing with Liz and we're really looking forward to it. We'll also be giving a <b>fun 20 minute taster lesson</b>. Please come and join us!<br />
<br />
It's in Twyford (near Winchester), and starts at 8pm. There will be live
music and other entertainment. Tickets are £12, including a
complementary glass of bubbly. For booking contact Loveday on
01962776583. For full details see this poster: <a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=834dfbed19&e=6b5650fc52" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Jubilee_fundraiser.jpg</a><br />
<br />
On the subject of performances, a big thanks to Gary and Sue for
inviting us to perform on the very special occasion of their 30th
wedding anniversary, earlier this month! A further thank you to
Visionary Events for inviting us to perform at the Carnival fundraiser
event at 90 Degree, in Southampton on 30th April.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=445340986539299543" name="137a1b1a760d0c7e_sec2" style="color: #c01008!important; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none!important;">The Return of the Technique Booster - 10th June</a></span>This <b>Technique Booster workshop on Sunday 10th June</b>
is about improving your ability to dance socially with the music and
with your partner, in the milongas. We'll focus on the embrace - <i>and making it feel delicious</i> - and simple patterns and turns you can improvise with to express the music more.<br />
<br />
An afternoon workshop gives you the chance to get technique into your
body in a way that's not possible in a regular evening class. It's going
to be a lot of fun and it's going to be <b>recent beginner friendly</b>! That means you <i>don't</i> need a lot of tango experience to benefit from this workshop.<br />
<br />
Does that mean if you've been dancing for a few years you won't get much
from it? No. As with the previous workshop, the basic idea is
presented, along with optional and more challenging variations for you
to try, if you feel comfortable doing so. The aim is that <b>everyone who comes can enjoy it and be appropriately challenged</b>.<br />
<br />
Time: 1pm - 5:30pm (with tea and snack breaks), followed by a free 1 hour practica.<br />
Price: £32 per person (£26 concessions)<br />
Venue: Povey's Dance Centre.<br />
<br />
No need to come with a partner.<br />
<br />
Book the workshop for Sunday 10th June now:<br />
<b><a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=3ed4a78887&e=6b5650fc52" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank"> http://www.tangolingua.com/<wbr></wbr>workshops/southampton-10th-<wbr></wbr>june</a></b><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=445340986539299543" name="137a1b1a760d0c7e_sec3" style="color: #c01008!important; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none!important;">My First Tango Film</a></span> Just a few weeks ago I was asked by Hourglass Productions to dance in a short film. The concept was to do a <b>dance interpretation of a new romance</b>
- so perfectly suited to tango. I said yes. As it turned out, I ended
up doing the acting parts too (hopefully not too badly). Laura Beduz
kindly partnered me for the film. Here it is for your viewing pleasure.
Let me know what you think!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=c9cecb9620&e=6b5650fc52" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?<wbr></wbr>v=fHdDXabUC2U</a><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=445340986539299543" name="137a1b1a760d0c7e_sec4" style="color: #c01008!important; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none!important;">Calling for new blood (and old) - Argentine Tango Fundamentals Course</a></span> A new 'Core Skills 1' course (formally known as the beginner course) begins on <b>Monday 11th June</b>. So <b>if you're completely new to tango</b> (or to dance in general), <b><i>or</i> you</b> <b>already have some experience</b> but want to refresh the fundamentals to help overcome some sticking points, you are invited to take part in this <b>6 week course</b>.<br />
<br />
For full details of what you'll learn, and to book now, see:<br />
<a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage2.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=77c3cfdb9b&e=6b5650fc52" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/<wbr></wbr>courses/core-skills-1</a><br />
<br />
You can read some testimonials of happy tango students, past and present here:<br />
<a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=687696c603&e=6b5650fc52" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/<wbr></wbr>testimonials</a><br />
<br />
Know some people who would like to try tango? Get a <b>free private lesson</b> for every 3 referrals.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS',Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=445340986539299543" name="137a1b1a760d0c7e_sec5" style="color: #c01008!important; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none!important;">Sad news, but let's make the most of it (and other social occasions)</a></span>The
sad news is that Lisa is leaving us for South Africa, at the end of
July. Having started barely 6 months ago, her passion for tango is
inspiring and I know a lot of people will miss her. But on the bright
side, she's having a leaving party, to which you are warmly invited!
This will be on <b>Saturday 21st July</b>, from 7pm. Contact me for full details. There will be food and drink, and you are
invited to bring some to contribute. Of course, there will be lots of
dancing, so bring your tango shoes!<br />
<br />
But before that, there will be a BBQ (hmmm, BBQ :) ) on bank holiday <b>Tuesday 5th June</b>, from 3:30pm. Bring yourselves, plus food and drink! <br />
<br />
Finally on the social front, I'm thinking of going to see Prometheus
(the Aliens prequel) at the cinema, maybe this Sunday. If you'd like to
join me, let me know :)<br />
<br />
In closing I'd just like to give a huge thank you to the tango teachers
from London, Bournemouth and Totnes who visited last Saturday for the
very first <a href="http://tangolingua.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d596c89a0bf927df152e8bf0&id=6cd3a77cb0&e=6b5650fc52" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank">Tango Teachers Symposium</a>, and made it such a success. Here's to the next one! And here's a picture of us on the day:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggvI0uc_iNE_YN2nCScG6J7JUfY2be2kcDquYGHMvi1bT7SWWAQ2kolyCgdE6_gtkhRmLaYGtHgpxrD8cZDHW6OdzfbCB4QGE-nxb-ulzWkDyaHvESjqVv-xuMUIk-R9KGwcqlo9pyUrc/s1600/TTS_group_580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggvI0uc_iNE_YN2nCScG6J7JUfY2be2kcDquYGHMvi1bT7SWWAQ2kolyCgdE6_gtkhRmLaYGtHgpxrD8cZDHW6OdzfbCB4QGE-nxb-ulzWkDyaHvESjqVv-xuMUIk-R9KGwcqlo9pyUrc/s1600/TTS_group_580.jpg" /></a></div>Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-64425666347040176842012-05-11T22:45:00.002+01:002012-05-11T22:45:52.927+01:00New workshop, new prices, a TV opportunity and more...<span class="h2" style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a class="secheader" href="" name="sec1" style="color: #C01008 !important; cursor: pointer; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none !important;">New Workshop</a></span>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Due to the success of the previous one, coming up soon on <strong>10<sup>th</sup> June</strong> is the next in the series of <strong>Technique Booster workshops</strong>. This one will focus on the embrace, patterns and turns.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
If you'd really like to iron out a few of your sticking points in
dancing in the close (or open) embrace and a variety of turns and common step
combinations for the milonga – or if you're fairly new to a lot of those
elements – this workshop is designed for you. (<b>I.e. it is recent beginner friendly!</b>)</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
As usual the approach will be relaxed and friendly, while focused on technique.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
If you'd like to do this <strong>workshop on Sunday 10<sup>th</sup> June, 1-5:30pm</strong> (with breaks and a 1 hour practica from 5:30pm) please book now!<br />
The booking page and more info is here: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton-10th-june" style="color: #c01008; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: underline;">http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton-10th-june</a><br />
</div>
<span class="h2" style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a class="secheader" href="" name="sec2" style="color: #C01008 !important; cursor: pointer; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none !important;">New prices</a></span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
I'd really like to encourage as many people as possible to dance tango,
and I know that sometimes money is an issue. So I'm offering <strong>lower prices for students, unwaged or low waged* dancers</strong>.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
This lower price is <strong>£5 per lesson</strong> (or £6 for both lessons in an evening). If this pricing applies to you, just come along and pay the new rate.<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 15px; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
*<span style="font-size: x-small;">'low waged' is
for you to decide. But as a rough guide, according to the Joseph
Rowntree Foundation, the individual full-time income (pre-tax) for a
'minimum acceptable standard of living' in the UK is currently £15k pa.
So if you're around or below that than by most counts you're probably on
a 'low income'.</span></div>
<br />
<span class="h2" style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a class="secheader" href="" name="sec3" style="color: #C01008 !important; cursor: pointer; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none !important;">The beginner course is dead, long live the beginner course!</a></span>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
From this point on, the course formerly known as 'the beginner course' will be called '<strong>core skills 1</strong>'.</div>
As before, it will cover the <strong>fundamental parts of tango like
walking, moving together in an embrace, basic ochos and crosses, and
dancing to the beat and in the line of dance</strong>. It will still be a course suitable for complete, two left-footed beginners. But I also <em>really</em> want to encourage anyone who wishes to improve those <em>fundamental</em> points of their tango to come and do it, even if you've already done it before.<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Those who have repeated the core skills 1 course will tell you that you
learn something new every time and that the more your simple walking in
an embrace improves, the more the rest of tango opens up to you.<br />
<br />
If you're already reasonably proficient in your tango, don't worry
about spending the whole lesson working with complete beginners; more
experienced dancers will be given more detail and more challenge.<br />
<br />
<strong>So for anyone wanting to do the course again, please feel free to drop in on the Monday 8pm sessions</strong>.</div>
<br />
<span class="h2" style="color: #202020; display: block; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial; font-size: 26px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 100%; margin-bottom: 10px; text-align: left;"><a class="secheader" href="" name="sec4" style="color: #C01008 !important; cursor: pointer; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none !important;">Want to tell your story on TV?</a></span> I recently got a call from someone working on a new <strong>Channel 4 documentary series</strong>.
It's about women, presented by actor Sharon Horgan. One of the films
will look at the experiences of women who reach middle age and discover a
new hobby or passion which transforms their life - tango being one such
hobby! So:<br />
<br />
• Did you discover tango in your 40’s/50’s?<br />
• Were you lacking in confidence or fed up with your routine?<br />
• Was tango the catalyst for change in your life?<br />
<br />
If you want to be involved and share your story please contact me.<br />Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-2549823897823578632012-04-18T02:06:00.002+01:002012-04-18T02:06:59.026+01:00Fuertes Raíces tango kata - mkIII've just recorded a new and <i>much</i> improved version of my Fuertes Raíces ('strong roots') tango kata, developed just over 2 months ago.<br />
<br />
I hope you enjoy it. In any case, I'd love to know your thoughts on it, including constructive critique.<br />
<br />
Why have I made this kata? The motivation is to have a training tool, for myself and my students, which will assist the development of strong technique for a wide range of tango movements and improve balance, posture, timing, coordination and physical conditioning. Katas are commonly used in martial-arts (which I have a background in) for the same purposes. I do not know of any other tango katas currently existing, but so far I've been practicing and teaching this new version to my students for the last 6 weeks to good effect.<br />
<br />
Here are the videos, front and side view (but can you spot the differences? :) )<br />
<br />
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/A5gDn78qD4Q?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
There will be further parts, and additional katas for pair work.<br />Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-50254899002134293712012-04-15T23:19:00.000+01:002012-04-15T23:19:23.167+01:00What you can expect on the 22nd April Technique BoosterHello!<br /><br />I hope you had a great weekend. <br /><br />Just a short one this time :) I'm giving a <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton-22nd-april" target="_blank">tango workshop on <b>22nd April</b></a>, next Sunday. What can you expect from it?<br />
<br />The
basic idea is to pack a lot of learning into an afternoon, for maximum
value and maximum fun, whether you're a beginner or a more experienced
tango dancer.<br />
<br />We'll look specifically at <b>3 key areas of tango</b>: pivoting,
the free leg and the embrace. Starting with an (re)introduction to the
basic principles, we'll move on to exploring some interesting, creative
and musical applications of the basic techniques. These will include a
range of leader and follower secadas and ganchos, boleos and more.<br />
<br /><span style="font-size: medium;">Who's it for?</span><br /><br />The workshop will be structured for dancers with a <i>broad range of experience</i>. <b>Different options for steps will be taught for different experience levels, ensuring everyone is appropriately challenged. </b><br />
<br />For the <b>beginner tango dancer</b> this will be a chance to start
playing with ideas you'll develop more over the coming months and years,
while refining the core technique you've learnt on the beginner course. <br /><br />For the <b>more experienced, improver or intermediate dancer</b>
you'll have the chance to get to grips with some fun new possibilities (and
invent you're own), while improving the basic technique that makes them possible.<br />
<br /><span style="font-size: medium;">The details</span><br /><br />The workshop starts at 1pm
and runs on until 5:30pm, with food and tea breaks. From 5:30-6:30pm there
will then be a free practica, so you can start to use what you've learnt in
your dancing straight away. The workshop will take place at the usual
venue, the Povey's Dance Centre, 159 Shirley Road, Southampton.<br />
<br /><b>The cost is £32 per person</b>. (For those who have done a tango
workshop with a similar format and amount of teaching to this before,
you'll be used to paying closer to £45. My hope is that the lower price
of this workshop will enable more people to attend. <span style="font-size: xx-small;">If
you'd like to attend but this is still too much for you to afford,
please get in touch, and I may be able to give you a discount.</span>)<br />
<br />No partner required, but you're welcome to bring one.<br clear="all" /><br />If you'd like to come, please <b>book now</b>. The link to do that:<br /><a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/workshops/southampton-22nd-april" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/<wbr></wbr>workshops/southampton-22nd-<wbr></wbr>april</a><br />
<br />Any questions, just ask!<br /><br />Thanks,<br />Joe<br /><br />ps. If you know someone who might enjoy doing this workshop, please forward the above to them!Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-26933790383653888812012-04-09T02:06:00.001+01:002012-04-10T04:08:45.941+01:00The rationale of a free sharing teachers symposiumI've been thinking about the 'teachers symposium' that I'm organizing for sometime in late April, May or June. The basic idea is spelled out here: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/events/teachers-symposium">http://www.tangolingua.com/events/teachers-symposium</a> but I've been wondering about which teachers might be attracted to it and the practicalities of attending, in the context of how being a professional tango teacher actually works.<br />
<br />
Unsurprisingly, in fitting with most businesses in our society, it seems that tango teachers <i>tend</i> to organize their business on the principles of competition and guarding of knowledge (with exceptions of course). This isn't meant as a criticism, it is simply my impression. In contemplation it's easy to be idealistic, but when taking action to pay the bills it's wise to be pragmatic.<br />
<br />
If you're trying to earn a living teaching tango, it's natural enough to want to protect your income source, your students, and also the knowledge you've spent lots of time and money building, which allows you to be competitive in offering students a good learning experience. If you go about openly sharing your deepest insights, teaching methods and signature techniques, maybe that will put you at a disadvantage, especially if what others share in a free exchange has less commercially transformable value for you?<br />
<br />
The above is essentially what I've been pondering - how to make sense of participating in an event like this if you're a professional teacher? <br />
<br />
I think whether it makes sense boils down to whether there is trust between attendees. If there is trust that people will be honest, with their sharing but also with giving credit and not plagiarizing others work then there is less at risk, and more up side.<br />
<br />
The question of what idea is original anyway is interesting (see the video <a href="http://www.everythingisaremix.info/everything-is-a-remix-part-4/">http://www.everythingisaremix.info/everything-is-a-remix-part-4/</a>). But if someone has put a lot of effort into developing some knowledge, for someone else to then take that knowledge and profit from it, by claiming it as their own, or not giving any credit for the inspiration, is clearly unfair.<br />
<br />
However, if people <i>do</i> give credit for the source of their inspiration then that source benefits. This works in the same way word of mouth recommendations work. Obviously you can invite other teachers who inspire you to do guest sessions at your school, but you can also recommend to your students that they take a class with a particular teacher when they have the chance, and acknowledge that you've learnt something valuable from them yourself.<br />
<br />
So let's say you come and what you share goes down very well with the other teachers and gets used a lot. Assuming honest participants, you will benefit from that materially through recommendations and improved reputation, and non-materially through your contribution to the improvement of other teachers and consequently their students. Also you have the chance to refine and evolve your ideas in a respectful, constructively critical and collaborative environment - an environment you may not normally have access to. Not to mention that you might pick up some inspiring ideas from the other teachers. Then there's the prospect that if there's a net improvement in teaching (and dancing) then class sizes increase, more classes are put on and the whole community grows and benefits.<br />
<br />
On the subject of evolving ideas, it is perhaps more normal for teachers to have their own maestros who they visit when they can for inspiration and development. What this event is offering is hopefully a complementary and possibly more accessible way to evolve, refine and inspire your tango.<br />
<br />
Perhaps you can see the potential benefit as a professional teacher in taking part, but you have the practical challenging of fitting it in with your regular teaching commitments? No problem, the form I set up on <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/events/teachers-symposium">http://www.tangolingua.com/events/teachers-symposium</a> allows you to select days you <i>can</i> make. (Also if you're traveling far, I may be able to arrange accommodation for you. I will also offer to personally cover your share of the hall hire cost.) If you still can't make any of those dates but are interested in taking part, please do register your interest anyway. There will be other opportunities.<br />
<br />
From the above discussion I don't want to suggest this is in any way an 'exclusive' event, only open to commercially successful professionals. Not at all! If you're just starting out with perhaps a little group once a week, or even if you're currently teaching for free, I'd be very happy for you to come and take part in this event. The only condition I would ask is that you're passionate about teaching and dancing tango, believe you have something valuable to share, but also wish to improve and refine your skills, and are open minded to different ideas (maybe harmonious ones, maybe not).<br />
<br />
Aside from honesty, another important point of faith in making this event appealing to teachers I think is respect. I understand the idea of presenting their understanding to other (possibly much more experienced) teachers may be daunting to some, and no-one wants to be seen as a fool, or as labouring under gross misunderstandings. However, if everyone there is respectful of everyone else, and does their bit to create a supportive environment (while allowing for potential constructive criticism) for sharing and <i>learning</i> then I think this worry can be allayed. <br />
<br />
Can we all be honest and respectful? I think that's very achievable, and that if everyone comes with that intention then we'll do just fine.<br />
<br />
If you're a teacher reading this and you're curious about the event but have some concerns I've not addressed, please get in touch!<br />
<br />
On a personal note, I've asked myself how I would define 'success' for this event. Clearly I'd be delighted if a dozen teachers were involved. I think that would create a fantastic and very productive atmosphere. However, even with 4 or 5 people there I still see it as very worthwhile. I feel strongly that however small the crowd if the people there are enthusiastic and keen to share and contribute it will be productive for everyone - which I would count as a definite success.<br />
<br />
If you think you might like to take part, please visit <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/events/teachers-symposium">http://www.tangolingua.com/events/teachers-symposium</a> and register your interest, thank you!<br />
<br />
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<br />Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-49079699671297869242012-04-08T19:40:00.000+01:002012-06-01T03:08:38.077+01:00Are you ready to dance in the milongas? (A trick of the mind)So you're learning how to dance tango, enjoying it for the most part, but not yet ventured out to the milongas (the social tango dances). Or maybe you tried it, but got scared and haven't been back? Fear not, some friendly guidance is at hand!<br />
<br />
<h4 style="font-size: 1.1em;">
What makes a dancer 'ready' for the milonga? </h4>
<br />
While the particular milonga or community in question can be <i>a</i> factor, it chiefly comes down to your own <i>outlook</i>.<br />
<br />
Obviously if you're going to a place where people gather to dance tango, it helps to know a little tango - along with the basics of milonga etiquette (which is mostly common sense, like trying not to hit or obstruct other dancers) - but beyond that, your outlook is the decider.<br />
<br />
If you're a relatively inexperienced dancer and your outlook is such that you think <i>because</i> you are inexperienced, other dancers will find it unpleasant to dance with you, then you are not ready for the milonga. Your fear and shame will make you stiff, self-critical and miserable, which <i>in itself</i> will make you hard work to dance with and will lower you chances of getting dances. Consequently you'll come away with your belief reinforced.<br />
<br />
However, if you're just as relatively inexperienced a dancer and your outlook is such that you think while your inexperience <i>might</i> mean other dancers are not able to do all the movements they enjoy doing, that it is nonetheless <i>perfectly possible</i> for you and them to enjoy a dance, then you are ready for the milonga (providing you have the very basics of walking with the music in an embrace, while avoiding collisions with other dancers).<br />
<br />
The deciding factor here is only your outlook.<br />
<br />
One determining dimension of this outlook is how you hold on to feelings of guilt, fear and shame; relating to how you dance and the influence that may have on others, or the <i>judgements</i> they may make about you.<br />
<br />
Another (related) dimension is how open minded and inquisitive you are about what you're learning. Can you treat your learning process as a stimulating and playful process of discovery, without obstructing and derailing yourself with judgement (rather than simple <i>observation</i>, which is certainly useful) and giving in to fear?<br />
<br />
This isn't to say that if you sometimes feel bad about your dancing and judge yourself harshly you have no place in the milongas (otherwise they'd be empty), or that you need to already be 'happy' to go out and dance tango. The point is simply that in order to get <i>and give</i> the most enjoyment in a milonga, having a positive, relaxed and open minded outlook relating to your dance and your partner is the overriding factor.<br />
<br />
Even with the most modest amount of tango experience, with the above kind of outlook you can have a delightful time at a milonga.<br />
<br />
Actually, drawing on personal experience here, outlook and attitude is so fundamental to the quality of your milonga experience that even for fairly seasoned tango dancers, if the way you're relating to your own dance (or that of your partner's) is getting crowded with criticism or doubt on a particular occasion, you'll have a hard time having a good night.<br />
<br />
<h4 style="font-size: 1.12em;">
The freedom and the trap of technique</h4>
<br />
What you learn in class (at least from some teachers) is technique focused. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha_Graham" target="_blank">Martha Graham</a> (a central figure in the development of modern dance) said: "Freedom to a dancer means discipline.That is what technique is for – liberation." In other words, technique is the dancers freedom. But she also said: "Great dancers are not great because of their technique, they are great because of their passion."<br />
<br />
It can be easy to become self-critical and think "I'm just not good enough" or "I'll never get it right", when you're very focused on technique - in combination with a certain kind of outlook. But this does not help you, firstly in absorbing the technique and gaining the freedom it offers, and secondly in expressing your passion and joy in movement with the music and your partner.<br />
<br />
A vicious cycle can develop where you just go to classes and think "I need more confidence first before I go the milongas - and better technique will give me that" but your present outlook is <i>reinforcing</i> itself in your technique focused classes - especially if your being introduced to a technique that has some subtlety to it and takes time and much practice to really absorb.<br />
<br />
Remember, a technique applied without a sense of fun, passion or playfulness can hardly make up a dance, and dancing tango is what presumably you're aiming to do. So try to enjoy even your mistakes; by smiling and focusing on the stimulating process of learning and discovering new possibilities.<br />
<br />
You probably guessed by now that part of breaking this cycle of thinking you're never quite good enough to dance in the milongas, is to get out and just do it. Going to milongas, really, is part of learning to dance tango.<br />
<br />
Yes, perhaps you'll be one of the least experienced dancers there, for a while, and at times that may feel daunting. (There may even be the very occasional, odd person there who turns their nose up or says something discouraging. Although most communities are pretty friendly if you come with a positive attitude). But providing you can maintain a constructive, learning-friendly outlook, you will soon find your feet. In fact, as much as anything, I've found that the less experienced dancers who have that outlook are admired by other dancers for their bravery for showing up and diving in, and they are encouraged and supported.<br />
<br />
This previous post discusses the <a href="http://tangolingua.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/bravery-of-men-and-women-who-dance.html" target="_blank">bravery of those men and women who dance tango</a> (and related issues, such as 'not being good enough', or dealing with rejection).<br />
<br />
As an aside, you may notice when you are at a milonga that some of the people look very serious when they're dancing, austere of forbidding even. You may find the sight of this makes it hard for you to just relax and enjoy the dance. However when you realize why they're doing that, it may not concern you any more. For perhaps most of them, the serious look is merely a sign of concentration or focus (which the tango experience can benefit from to a degree), nothing more. For the rest, I think, they just see the others looking that way, assume that's how you're supposed to look when dancing, and so copy them. But you don't have to.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="font-size: 1.12em;">
Milonga survival kit</h3>
<br />
Here's some quick tips for those just on the brink of going to milongas, and perhaps lacking a little confidence. <br />
<ul>
<li><b>Check your outlook.</b> Review the above content, and remember as a beginner what makes the difference between a pleasant dance and a slightly fraught one, is how relaxed, positive and open minded you are. To a large extent it really does come down to a trick of the mind. When at a milonga, get off to a good start by smiling, being friendly and starting conversations. <br /><br />Also, consider the flip-side of being a beginner or near beginner; many more experienced dancers enjoy dancing with beginners (who have reasonable balance) because they are: fresh, enthusiastic, easy to please/no high expectations, open minded etc. If you can manifest those qualities you will more easily be a pleasure to dance with, even with little experience.</li>
<li><b>Keep it simple (obviously) and <i>play with the known</i>.</b> Once you know how to walk to the music in an embrace and perhaps do some crosses and ochos you have a veritable ocean teeming with all manner of possibilities. In fact, when you start to unravel what you can really do with just walking, crosses and ochos it can be overwhelming. So simplify it further.<br /><br />For instance, for leaders just focus on walking for most of a song, but really hitting the beat, being grounded and confident in each step and then perhaps seeing if you can alter the character of your steps depending on whether the music is soft or hard in its character, or varying the step length. As an experiment, compare how many warm smiles and hugs you get from your partners doing just that, with how many you get attempting more complex moves you don't quite understand yet.<br /><br />For followers, keeping things simple and playing with the known can be understood as focusing on your core technique of mirroring the leaders intention while maintaining a strong, comfortable and grounded posture. In a sense just about every step you take as a follower can be understood as a forward, back or side step, with perhaps a pivot in-between steps. The key to seeing and feeling that simplicity is to wait and slow down a little. Be patient with yourself. The opportunity to <i>play</i> with these knowns comes from your groundedness. For starters you can then vary the level of presence in your embrace to alter the speed of a step, or even initiate a stop. <br /><br />As an experiment compare how many warm smiles and hugs you get from your partners by keeping a good and well balanced posture while waiting for the lead and providing a positive and confident presence in the embrace, with how many you get by going off on your own trip, racing ahead (or letting yourself be rushed) or not taking care of your own balance. <br /><br />For more tips on basic walking technique for leaders and followers see: <a href="http://tangolingua.blogspot.co.uk/2012/01/6-walking-tips-for-argentine-tango.html">6 walking tips for argentine tango</a></li>
<li><b>Listen to tango music.</b> The music is the bridge on which your own individual dances can meet and be expressed in harmony. It is a guide to your movements and the quality of your movements. Get some CDs, download some mp3, let it seep into you. You will then get to know the patterns within the music and your body will be more readily able to express them, with various combinations of simple steps in different timings.</li>
<li><b>Practice what you've learnt.</b> But how can you keep things simple while at the same time practicing the new steps you learn in a lesson? It's called a practica (practice tango session). You do go to a practica don't you? If not, I suggest you do. If there isn't one close to you, then consider starting one up. For Southampton, see: <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/practice-tango">http://www.tangolingua.com/practice-tango</a></li>
</ul>
For more general ideas of how to get dances in milongas see: <a href="http://tangolingua.blogspot.co.uk/2011/09/thoughts-on-getting-dances-when.html" target="_blank">thoughts on getting dances</a>.<br />
<br />
Finally here are some canned responses or reactions you may find helpful in your early milonga days.<br />
<br />
<b>When invited to dance:</b> <br />
"Hi, thanks for asking me to dance. I've not been dancing tango long, I hope that's OK with you."<br />
<br />
<b>When you totally lose the music in a dance:</b><br />
"Oops" *smile* then go back to the balanceo. If you're following, and you want to regain the connection you can try: "Do you mind if we go back to the balanceo for a moment, please?"<br />
<br />
<b>When as a follower your leader is leading in a way which confuses you:</b><br />
First give yourself a bit more time to see if you could comfortably make a forward, backward or side step in the direction they're leading, or whether it's more of a pivot. If none of the above seem to fit - "I'm just beginning to learn tango and I'm feeling a bit confused. Would you be willing to have a simpler kind of tango with me?"<br />
<br />
<b>When as a leader you notice an uncomfortable tension or strain develop anywhere in your embrace:</b> <br />
Go to the balanceo (which is often used a lot in a tango dance anyway) for a couple of beats or so, readjust and set off again. If it persists, make a note to bring it up at your next practica and with your teacher.<br />
<br />
Well, that's it. Dive in, and good luck!<br />
<br />
ps. Fellow tango blogger <a href="http://www.facebook.com/terpsichoral.tangoaddict" target="_blank">Terpsichoral Tangoaddict</a>, posted a comment about the above blog. I thought it covered a few points very well that the above didn't mention, so I'll add it here (for anyone who doesn't spot it in the comments below):<br />
<br />
"I
would just add that, if you are unused to navigating the floor at a
milonga, you might want to stay away from very crowded milongas at peak
hours (go early or arrive very late). If the milonga is crowded and
everyone is dancing giros on the spot (very common at some places) you
will not be able to focus on walking, but will have to make most of your
moves turning figures. (Some kind of simple giro or turning figure is
therefore essential). I would start with a practica, or an afternoon
milonga or a milonga which is less trendy and well-attended. (But my
advice is really geared to BA -- in your local scene, the milongas may
be less crowded). Good luck, beginner dancers!<br />
<br />
[It's fairly rare for a milonga to be so crowded in the UK that there isn't space to walk for much of a dance. But expect the occasional stop. Knowing some simple combinations of ochos, half steps, rocking steps, and even basic giros will definitely come in handy in such situations. And if it does get a little crowded for your taste, you can spend a little time enjoying watching the more experienced dancers. - Joe]<br />
<br />
<div class="dsq-comment-message" id="dsq-comment-message-537675657">
<div class="dsq-comment-text" id="dsq-comment-text-537675657">
PS And, for more formal milongas, learn how to use cabeceo
beforehand, as you won't be able to ask/accept dances verbally. If you
don't know how, ask your table neighbours -- most people LOVE to explain
it and it's pretty simple once you get the hang of it.<br />
<br />
[In the UK, I don't think there are that many milongas where folks seriously frown on asking people to dance verbally (although certainly some more experienced dancers often don't like to be asked this way). However, learning the cabeceo will definitely help you in milongas where people like or prefer to use it, and also in general will help you spot more often when someone is inviting you to dance. - Joe]<br />
<br />
PPS Don't be offended if people decline to dance with you. Accept
polite rejections with grace and think "well, they will dance with me
later, when I am a better dancer. So I'll look forward to that then."
Likewise, even though you are a beginner, you don't have to dance with
just anyone. If you don't feel comfortable dancing with someone -- well,
if they ask you verbally, make no apologies, just say a polite "no,
thanks." And, finally, beginner leaders, in particular, a good strategy
is to ask a woman to dance when the tanda is already halfway through.
That way, she only commits to one or two songs with you and may be much
more willing to take a chance on your dancing."</div>
</div>Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-21591392805959386822012-03-24T18:17:00.000+00:002012-03-24T18:20:33.976+00:00Milonga course, day workshops and dates for your diary<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Those interested in the <span style="font-size: medium;"><b>4 week milonga
course</b>, starting on Wednesday <b>28<sup>th</sup> March</b></span> can now book
here:<br />
<a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/courses/milonga" target="_blank">http://www.tangolingua.com/<wbr></wbr>courses/milonga</a></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
The course will introduce the basic
elements of dancing to milonga (a slightly faster form of tango with
a more regular rhythm) in close embrace. You will learn a number of
simple steps which can be combined in many musical and playful ways
to really enjoy this timeless dance. There will be a strong focus on
technique and connection, so you develop the skill to truly dance the
steps you're learning. Anyone who has a familiarity with the close
embrace is invited to attend this course. <b>You do <i>not</i> need to come with a partner</b>.<br />
<br />
Thanks everyone who came to the first
'fitness for tango' session last Wednesday! It was a lot of fun and a good way to
begin preparing your body for more advanced techniques, so I think I will run
it again in a month or so.<br />
<br />
Regarding the <b><span style="font-size: medium;">day workshop</span></b>
proposal, which will focus on exploring tango technique in more depth
and the new possibilities for movement which arise from that, this could
be held on <b>Sunday 15th April, or Sunday 29th April</b> from midday
onward. There would be 4 hours of teaching, plus breaks and time for
practice, ending with a mini-milonga. The cost would be £32 per person -
including tea and biscuits. Please let me know if you'd like to do this
and which date you prefer (if there's enough demand it could
potentially run on both dates). <br />
<br />
This workshop format has been tried and tested from the one's I've
been running in Cheltenham since last year, along similar lines. Having a
more concentrated period of learning and practice makes a big
difference to your dancing, so if you want to move forward a bit
quicker, or push through that plateau, a day workshop is a great way to
go. <br />
<br />
For social dancing, here are some dates for your diary:<br />
<br />
Thursday 5<sup>th</sup> April<br />
Milonga Liso @ Pilands
Wood<br />
Chamberlayne Road, Bursledon,<br />
Southampton, SO31 8DU<br />
7:30-11pm<br />
<br />
Friday 6<sup>th</sup> April<br />
Milonga Melodia @ Chilworth Hall,
<br />
Chilworth Road,<br />
Southampton SO16 7JZ<br />
8-12pm<br />
<br />
Saturday 14<sup>th</sup> April<br />
Early Burley @ Burley Village hall<br />
Pound Lane, <br />
Burley BH24 4EB<br />
2pm – 11pm (with the milonga starting
at 7pm)<br />
<br />
Hopefully we can get a little crowd
together for these events. Let me know if you're up for any of them, and perhaps we can coordinate travel plans.<br />
<br />
Best wishes,<br />
Joe</div>Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-445340986539299543.post-15113888176912987262012-03-11T05:31:00.000+00:002012-08-23T04:29:56.100+01:00The bravery of men and women who dance tangoWhat does dancing mean to you? Clearly it can be many things to different people at different times. A free spirited form of self-expression, a way to connect with yourself, the music and someone else, a joyful or cathartic release, a form of play, a courting ritual or a show of feathers.<br />
<br />
Partner dances celebrate the act of dance - and all which that means - with another person. But sometimes doing one of these dances doesn't feel that celebratory. With self-expression there is self-exposure, and thus risk. What kind of risk? Some of the main ones that can get in the way of your enjoyment of a dance are:<br />
<ul>
<li>being judged negatively by yourself or someone else </li>
<li>being rejected after a dance</li>
<li>not having the sense that anyone (or a particular person) wants to dance with you in the first place </li>
<li>being embarrassed at making a 'mistake'</li>
<li>being frustrated with yourself (or someone getting frustrated with you) that the dance isn't going as hoped</li>
<li>being disappointed (or thinking someone else is disappointed) with how you danced </li>
</ul>
These risks (and similar) are interconnected. For instance, it's harder to feel embarrassed about making a mistake, or disappointed with yourself, if you have no sense whatsoever of any judgement about your dancing being made. Do all perceived emotional or mental risks with partner dancing stem from a real or imagined judgement, or a sense of not being wanted? I suspect so. <br />
<br />
Let's not forget, we're talking about dancing here, that fun, free-spirited, life affirming activity. Yet, still these risks - or more frequently <i>fears</i> about them - abound for many people, when it comes to dancing with another person. This is particularly (but non-exclusively I'm sure) the case with Argentine tango, with its intimacy and emphasis on connection.<br />
<br />
And so it takes a brave soul to dance tango. Since the follower and leader roles of tango are usually (but definitely not always) mapped to women and men respectively, there are slightly different calls for bravery for each gender. Let's explore those.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">The bravery of men</span></i><br />
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For men, the first hurdle often seems to be the very act of deciding to learn to dance. <br />
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Amongst some circles of male friends, learning to dance sets off alarm bells about your sexuality or masculinity. Although it's clearly silly, such prejudice sadly prevents many less brave men from exploring their own natural, physical creativity and musicality. Then there's the equally foolish idea that if you're a 'real man' you shouldn't have to be schooled by anyone else, and if you can't already dance, better that you just keep it quiet. For those influenced by such inhibiting ideas, consider, what super spy hero doesn't have at least rudimentary tango skills?<br />
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Beyond not enjoying the dance, another tragedy here is that I've never met or heard of one (heterosexual) woman that didn't find men who
can dance attractive. Dancing with competence and confidence gives you
massive sex appeal. Fact. Yet, somehow many men lose sight of that
valuable information, perhaps because they're occupied with other
fears, or just woefully lacking a clue about such things.<br />
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Those that do muster the courage to turn up to the first class have to live through the humbling experience of being told how to walk all over again (as this <a href="http://tangoaddiction.wordpress.com/2012/01/17/a-first-tango-lesson-a-fiction/">fictional account</a> portrays with a wonderful humour).<br />
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Walking together in an embrace with another person, while looking and sounding simple, requires the development of a sensitivity and coordination, similar to what you take for granted with walking on your own. Just like walking individually, pretty much everyone can do it, it <i>simply requires some practice</i>. But being a bloke and publicly demonstrating that you're having to work hard at mastering a physical skill which <i>appears</i> simple, can be somewhat deflating. Consequently many men are cut down at this early stage by their lack of grit.<br />
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Those brave men who get a rough hang of walking in the embrace (give it a month of regular practice and decent tuition), are then faced with the three-pronged challenge of navigating safely in the line of dance, interpreting the music, <i>and</i> being a sensitive yet clear leader.<br />
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Yes, it's deep in multitasking territory. What's more, if you abort your mission to learn tango now it will be plain to see that you really tried but ended up failing. The old "well if I really wanted to I could easily do it, I'm just not bothered" line isn't going to fly at this late hour. But then, the truly courageous do not dwell on the prospect of failure, they have a vision and they follow it through.<br />
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Besides, the very idea of 'failure' is often short sighted. Regardless of your ultimate ability, applying yourself with an open mind to developing any creative skill, especially one as holistic as tango, will teach you valuable lessons and leave you a richer person. Furthermore, the physical and mental skills required to give a <i>highly enjoyable dance</i>, require no great feats of athleticism or musical genius, they are such that if you can walk you can develop them, <i>with a little practice</i>.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The bravery of women</i></span> <br />
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What of women who dance tango? Dance, and allowing yourself to be taught a dance, is perhaps a more accepted and celebrated aspect of femininity than it is of masculinity, in modern English culture. So there are less barriers there to turning up for that first class.<br />
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But once women are there, the same self-doubts that can afflict men, obstruct the less brave woman (perhaps when it comes to blaming yourself for mistakes, even slightly more): "My balance is awful", "I can't stop doing it wrong", "I'm ruining it for my partner", "I'm just not a natural dancer" etc.<br />
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Only those women who can suspend self-judgement for a while will give themselves a chance to learn; how to connect and flow with themselves, the music and their partner at the same time, and thus taste the true beauty of tango. Doing this naturally requires a little courage. What if it doesn't work? Well, then you be patient and kind with yourself and try again until it does. Just like leading, following is something that if you can walk then you'll be fine with it, given some practice.<br />
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For those women who have the basics more or less under their belts and are dancing socially, inevitably they come up against the leader shortage (for all the above reasons), which affects the majority of milongas in the UK (and many other places, apparently even Buenos Aires now). When there are less leaders, more followers spend more time not dancing, there is more competition - which can lead the less brave women to feel uncomfortable - and more opportunity for feeling miserable because you're not being asked to dance. Bummer.<br />
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What can be done about that? Women who stick it out take the initiative and a positive attitude. They work on their technique and find a teacher who helps them move forward, they learn to lead as well as follow (something that is supported in <a href="http://www.tangolingua.com/tango-lessons">Tango Lingua courses</a>), they become a skilled practitioner of the cabeceo (the non-verbal invite to dance), they make an extra effort to befriend the leaders they enjoy dancing with, they plan ahead with their social dancing and go ahead and <a href="http://tangolingua.blogspot.com/2011/09/thoughts-on-getting-dances-when.html">break the ice with leaders they don't know</a>, and they strongly and warmly encourage their male friends to learn tango.<br />
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No one likes to be a wallflower, but by taking the initiative as above that needn't be your lot. Of course it takes guts to stick your neck out, to do things that are perhaps a little unconventional, which might raise a few eyebrows in some places (such as leading - although objections are becoming rare), or to be slightly more pro-active and assertive in getting to know people and initiating an invitation. But then, especially in tango, fortune really does favor the brave.<br />
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Then as a woman, once you've started doing what you need to, to get the dances you want, there can remain the challenge of openness. Of course, this is a challenge that can be present from the very beginning - and to an extent with men too - of allowing someone else to guide you, completely receptive to their physical movements (while keeping good posture). Allowing this requires a degree of trust and can feel like quite a revealing and vulnerable state to be in for a while, especially with the physical proximity and sensuality of tango.<br />
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With practice though, this openness or receptiveness becomes a <i>physical skill</i>, and a habit which feels as natural and enjoyable as a warm hug or a conversation with a friend. But once again, a little courage can be required to reach that point.<br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Recognition, whether to set out, and beyond bravery</span></i><br />
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So, for both men and women, I think a considerable amount of courage is called for to become a dancer of tango, and that deserves recognition. We've not even discussed personal issues with physical contact or closeness that some people may be trying to overcome (and tango is certainly good for doing that), or setting out learning tango as a couple, or the challenges of one half of a relationship dancing and the other not.<br />
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If you're reading this as someone contemplating learning tango, or you're just starting, do you have what a takes? Can your mettle withstand the pressure? Well, while it's true that tango is not everyone's dance, if you find yourself drawn to it, enjoy learning and are prepared for a challenge or two, then you'll almost certainly do just fine.<br />
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Many of the challenges faced in tango, which call for our courage, are actually manifested by our own thinking. What then lies beyond 'the bravery of dancing tango'? Without meaning to get too esoteric, I think a kind of serenity than comes from a deeper understanding of people, most of all yourself. But that it's the being brave that gets you to that understanding.<br />
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Some of this understanding can come from the experience you accumulate dancing tango, which teaches you how dancers and milongas can change from day to day, how any number of factors can be in play - of which you are only one - and how practice, patience and kindness are your friends. It's a familiarity and peace with the many uncertainties and ups and downs of engaging with this language of movement, and an experiential acceptance that all does not rest on you.<br />
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Other parts of this understanding conducive to a more serene enjoyment of tango come more generally from self-inquiry and maturing as a person. Specifically, the empowering recognition that one, the <i>responsibility</i> for your feelings - and changing them - lies squarely with you, and two, that critical (or complementary) judgement always comes with choices. The choice to make that judgement or not, if you're at the point of making it, or where someone else seems to be doing the judging, the choice of whether to take that on as part of your reality, or to (often more constructively) look behind it to the underlying feelings and needs of that person.<br />
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So then with the benefit of these understandings you don't need to be so brave, since most of the risks that were perceived dissolve once you have a different relationship with judgement and empower yourself to take charge of your inner state. Then, dancing tango can once again become more about just having fun and opening your heart to playful, creative and musical connections.<br />
<br />Joe Hudsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02007274433208167837noreply@blogger.com0