Our teaching philosophy is based on the ideal of the dancers being independent, yet connected and co-creative. We support active following, freeing the follower to interpret the music through her body, at times independent from leader. Within a solid base of structure, technique and timing, the energy flows freely through the couple. This philosophy is further supported by the concept of tension and release, allowing the dance to come from a very quiet place yet explode at moments, always returning to an attentive, subtle baseline.

 

Ours is a more modern, complex and evolving style, but has its roots in a deeply traditional form.  Leaders and followers have distinct roles; yet share many aspects of fundamental technique. They collaborate and negotiate, moment to moment, reading each other, redirecting the flow of energy between them, understanding the perfectly imperfect nature of the dance.

 

As far as our teaching style- We would call it relaxed and fun, heavy on technique and exploratory based.  We may use a movement or sequence as a framework for the technique or concept we are looking at, but our focus is the natural flow of the energy from lead to follow, relative position and timing for any given movement. ....all with a healthy dose of playfulness! 

 

 Once the mechanics of a given movement are grasped, we focus on "how" the movement is executed, the quality of the connection and communication, refining the clarity and how we feel the movement. In the end this is a social dance, and we want to experience a good feeling with our partner, no matter what movement we are creating together.

, is an international artist visiting from Buenos Aires. Since his teens he has studied with masters, worked teaching and performing Argentine Tango in Buenos Aires. Tate has traveled extensively, around the world with Tango, both as an instructor and performer. He toured with the famous show "Tanguera" from 2002-2009. www.tatetango@blogspot.com