As an intermediate tango dancer, you've likely mastered the basic steps and rhythms of the dance. But to take your tango to the next level, you'll need to focus on more advanced techniques. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the key skills and strategies that can help you elevate your tango and become a more confident, expressive dancer.
1. Mastering the Ocho
The ocho is a fundamental tango step that involves a series of quick, circular movements of the feet. To master the ocho, focus on maintaining a low center of gravity and keeping your weight evenly distributed across both feet. Practice the step slowly at first, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable with the movement.
2. Improving Your Embrace
A strong embrace is essential for creating a deep connection with your partner on the dance floor. To improve your embrace, focus on maintaining a relaxed, comfortable hold that allows you to feel your partner's movements and respond to them in real-time. Experiment with different hand positions and levels of pressure to find the embrace that works best for you and your partner.
3. Exploring Musicality
Tango is a highly musical dance, and developing your musicality can help you become a more expressive and engaging dancer. To improve your musicality, listen carefully to the rhythm and melody of the tango music, and experiment with different ways of interpreting and responding to it through your movement. Try dancing to a variety of different tango songs, and pay attention to how the music changes your mood and energy on the dance floor.
4. Developing Your Own Style
While it's important to learn the basic steps and techniques of tango, developing your own unique style is what will truly set you apart as a dancer. To develop your own style, experiment with different movements, rhythms, and musical interpretations, and pay attention to what feels most authentic and expressive for you. Don't be afraid to take risks and push the boundaries of what you know and what you're comfortable with.
5. Practicing, Practicing, Practicing
Finally, the key to elevating your tango is consistent, dedicated practice. Set aside time each week to practice your steps, work on your technique, and explore new movements and musical interpretations. Consider taking lessons from a professional tango instructor, or attending a tango workshop or festival to learn from other experienced dancers. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the journey of becoming a more confident, expressive tango dancer.
Remember, tango is a journey, not a destination. With dedication, practice, and a willingness to explore and take risks, you can elevate your tango and become a more confident, expressive dancer on the dance floor.
