Tango, with its sultry rhythms and intricate footwork, has captivated dancers for generations. As you progress from beginner to intermediate, the dance becomes less about learning the basics and more about refining your style, adding complexity, and expressing yourself through movement. This guide will walk you through key steps to unlock intermediate Tango moves and elevate your dance to the next level.
1. Master the Art of Connection
At the heart of Tango is the connection between partners. As an intermediate dancer, focus on deepening this connection. Pay attention to your embrace—ensure it’s firm yet flexible, allowing for clear communication through subtle shifts in weight and pressure. Practice leading and following with intention, using your chest and core to guide movements rather than relying solely on your arms.
2. Perfect Your Posture and Balance
Posture is the foundation of every Tango move. Stand tall with your chest lifted, shoulders relaxed, and weight centered over the balls of your feet. Engage your core muscles to maintain stability, especially during turns and pivots. Practice balancing exercises, such as standing on one foot or executing slow, controlled ochos, to improve your control and poise.
3. Explore Dynamic Turns and Pivots
Turns and pivots are essential elements of intermediate Tango. Start with basic giros (turns) and gradually incorporate more complex variations, such as enrosques (spiral turns) and sacadas (displacements). Focus on maintaining a smooth, continuous motion and keeping your axis aligned. Remember, the key to elegant turns is precision, not speed.
4. Add Musicality to Your Dance
Musicality is what transforms steps into a dance. Listen closely to the music and let it guide your movements. Experiment with pauses, accelerations, and changes in rhythm to match the phrasing of the song. Intermediate dancers should also explore syncopation—adding extra steps or accents within the beat—to create a more dynamic and expressive performance.
5. Incorporate Advanced Footwork
Intermediate Tango introduces more intricate footwork patterns, such as boleos (leg flicks), ganchos (hooks), and barridas (sweeps). Practice these moves slowly at first, focusing on technique and control. As you gain confidence, integrate them into your dance, ensuring they flow naturally with the music and your partner’s movements.
6. Develop Your Own Style
Tango is a deeply personal dance, and as you progress, it’s important to develop your unique style. Experiment with different interpretations of the music, play with the dynamics of your movements, and find ways to express your personality on the dance floor. Whether you prefer a traditional or more contemporary approach, let your individuality shine through.
7. Practice, Practice, Practice
Refining your Tango skills requires consistent practice. Attend classes, workshops, and milongas (social Tango dances) to immerse yourself in the dance community. Seek feedback from instructors and experienced dancers, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Remember, every great Tango dancer was once a beginner who kept practicing.
Unlocking intermediate Tango moves is a journey of discovery, creativity, and connection. By focusing on technique, musicality, and personal expression, you’ll not only refine your style but also deepen your love for this passionate dance. So put on your dancing shoes, embrace the music, and let the magic of Tango guide you.
