July 2001 El Firulete 1
Volume 8 Issue 2 THE ARGENTINE TANGO MAGAZINE July 2001
PLUS Historic recordings anyone? A handful of emotions At least you can visit Tango , our dance and much more...
$5.00 U.S.A. Photo by Idalia Battle 2 El Firulete July 2001 everyone else realizes it as much as I did. The courtyard was so beautiful after you got a hold of it! We loved the photo in El Firulete. Send us a "quickie" every now and again to let us know what's going on in the "Big Easy"! Take care and hope to hear from you soon! We want you to sound off, whether it's to complain or to compliment. Or even if it's to elaborate on an article in our publication. Here are the rules: (1) You must tell us your full name, but we won't print it if you so request; (2) you must give your Dave Esch & Richard Swank complete address - even though we'll identify you only by the city and state- and your telephone number; and (3) we reserve Portland, OR the right to edit letters for length and clarity or to withhold their publication. We miss you guys and we wish that you INSPIRED IN VICTORIA enjoy your new life in Oregon. We have new Dear Alberto and Valorie, Congratulations for the new horizons you neighbors already, very nice people who are aiming for. Keep up the good work and make Thank you very much for all the information relocated from California although she is us proud. your include on your website, and for your originally a New Orleanian coming back home. passion and dedication to tango. You are an The Ambush magazine is still being inspiration! ENLIGHTENED IN URBANA delivered here and we wonder if you would like Best regards, Dear Alberto, us to forward it to you. Best wishes. Konstantin Zahariev I really love to read El Firulete. I do keep up Victoria, B.C., Canada on Tango Our Dance, which is the most enlight- HAVING FUN AT HOME ening writing on Tango available on the Internet. Dear Valorie and Alberto, I am so glad you make it available to everyone. Thank you for sharing how you feel and for We got your notice about the Labor Day giving us the positive feedback that makes us try Regards, Weekend Tango Getaway. We love Pablo and even harder. Keep the love of tango alive and Joe D. Barrios, Beatriz, we saw them in February in Madrid at don't be a stranger. Urbana, IL their great milonga. What a pair of great teachers and performers they are! John has retired and we are finally able to do CONFIDENT IN TUCSON It's a real pleasure to share our experience with our friends. Thank you for your support. more things together. We don't get out dancing a Editor, lot but boy, do we have fun at home and at our I have just finished reading Valorie Hart's local Santa Cruz practica. HAT IT MEANS TO MISS AWLINS Chapters on Tango, Our Dance. The information W N We have been attending the Carmel milonga is spectacularly helpful and encouraging, Hey there Valorie & Alberto! which is easier for us to get to, as well as the especially since I do not have a dance partner. Just wanted to send you a quick e-mail milonga at the Spectrum in Campbell whenever I've been taking group lessons and private lessons letting you know we're settled and enjoying life we can. for a year and still do not feel comfortable with here in the Pacific Northwest. Has anyone We went to the Miami Fantasy Tango Week the dance. After reading these Chapters I am moved in next door yet? I also wanted to take the and as always, our favorites where Osvaldo Zotto much more confident about my abilities and time to mention how wonderful it was to have and Lorena Ermocida. Fabian and Carolina gave much less concerned about my "presumed you as a neighbor... Very rarely do you find a superb "jump class" for us old athletic types. It mistakes". Thank you, thank you! May I have a people who care as much as you do, and I hope was one of those special small classes you sign copy of your magazine? Again, thank you for up for after eight hours of lessons, but it was your inspiring words. worth it! They are beautiful lifts that make John Charlotte Waitches feel powerful, but are as safe as any tango moves! Tucson, AZ Any chance you'll be coming our way after Reno? Come and visit us... Bring Pablo and It is our pleasure to send you this copy of El Beatriz! Firulete with our appreciation for your kind We love reading El Firulete and finding out commentaries. We're glad that you have joined what you're up to. Enclosed is our subscription the legions of those who know that there are no renewal. mistakes in Tango, just traspies and timely Love, pauses. Nancy and John Santa Cruz, CA THANKFUL IN NEW MEXICO Hola Alberto and Valorie, We would lie through our giros if we'd say Thanks for sending the "Naked Tango" that we miss California, however every time you video and El Firulete! I took El Firulete tonight write to us, we can't help remembering fondly the to the Milonga and they went like wild fire. Jose treasured moments we spent together at home and I are really excited about doing the perfor- dancing with the two of you, Ginger, Dick, Doris, mance for the Maxwell Museum this month!... Jean Pierre, Tamara, David , Alisa, Florencio, Our second paid performance! Yeah! Thank you and a few others who would join us on Wednes- both for all you have taught me... When people day nights whenever we were home in between ask me who are my teachers, I say YOU! our travels. Baila la danza de la vida con pasion! We are eagerly waiting for all of you to Sally Moon Dave and Richard as featured in the make it out our way and see for yourselves why Belen, NM Mardi Gras issue of El Firulete we have fallen in love with New Orleans. July 2001 El Firulete 3 Tangazos
The Argentine Tango Magazine Vol 8 Issue 2 July 2001 It could happen to you p to now most books written as testimonials of Publisher Planet Tango personal Tango experiences tend to fall under the Ucategory of out of body encounters of the me-silly Joint Editors kind. Like, "have you ever 'ocho' at the DMV?" Or, "I saw Alberto Paz & Valorie Hart Santa tangoing with my mommy to Jingle Bells." Or the implied lunacy of asking the question, "you know you are a Contributing Writers Alberto Paz Tango junkie if..." Valorie Hart Some day somebody might actually document the real Alberto Paz Tangoman experiences which most of us have lived from the day the Cholula Johnson Tango found us. They may describe the first time they saw a couple dancing Tango. Photos and Image Processing They may even remember exactly the date, their state of mind, and the circumstances of Valorie Hart their lives at the time. Those with a lot more mileage will doubtless credit Tango Alberto Paz Argentino, the legendary show of the nineteen eighties, with the compelling desire to be Idalia Battle able to Tango, to experience the passion and sensuality, not to mention the prowess Laura Lynch smartly staged by a group of seemingly average, middle aged couples. Teresa Klainer Ed Cherrie Others may remember hearing from a friend, or picking up a flyer where Argentine Tango lessons were being offered. Trusting, and with a naive sense of anticipation, you Graphic Design and Production may have begun to take at face value all the cliche ladden coating that accompanied Alberto Paz every lesson, along with every frustrated attempt to imitate the role model being Editorial, Advertising, Inquiries, presented to you. You may not longer remember the names of the teachers that began to Comments, Questions and Suggestions come in and out in a revolving door like fashion, all the while your mind feeling like a Planet Tango Texas size omelette. 1000 Bourbon St., #202 New Orleans, LA 70116 There might be cases where the stories will take on their own spin given personal and geographical circumstances. There might be accounts of "styles wars" within a E-mail to: city, mostly the result of shrewd operators in cahoots with ethically challenged profes- [email protected] sionals prying upon the trust and blind allegiance of eager learners. It would take a lot [email protected] of soul searching and a mega dose of self respect and self esteem to acknowledge cases of blunt breach of trust, disappointment and the realization that no matter how they are Website presented, lies and deception have short legs. http://www.planet-tango.com However, in spite of the emotional rollercoaster that the exposure to risk creates The information published is intended for when allowing the Tango to take over our lives, there is a moment when we finally get entertainment purposes only and it is as it, or not. They say that Tango is a very personal thing, that no respectable dancer will accurate as you want it to be. All correspon- face the scorn of their peers for being imitators, and we have heard of those who have dence and manuscripts are submitted at taken their "secrets" to the grave. On the other hand they say that there are no secrets owner’s risk. All become property of the publisher. in the Tango, only those who refuse to share its simplicity, its infinite set of possibilities, All rights reserved throughout the world. its endurance through acceptance and rejection, its universal appeal to the human soul Printed in the United States of America. No part far beyond frontiers and idiosyncrasies. of this publication may be transmitted or The story I'd like to write is about every door that opened to show another set of reproduced in any form or by any means without doors which in time opened themselves into larger universes where men and women the express written consent of the publishers. The opinions and advertising printed in El who lived and danced longer gave a mole or a mountain of their own experience, their Firulete are the sole responsibility of the imperfect, yet special human qualities, their internal energy and their intimate expres- authors, and they are not necessarily the sion of a rhythm. All within the context of making you aware of your own possibilities, opinions of the publishers therefore we can not your own achievements, and your fragile humanity. be held liable for their opinions and their actions. I would qualify many cynical attitudes as coming from passionate men and women Cover price $5.00 who might be afraid to be disappointed again, but I would continue to pass along what 12 issues subscription has been given to me, as an unexpected (and may be undeserved) gift: the privilege of looking into other's Tango life experiences and learn from them. It could happen to me $30 in the US, $40 in Canada, that I'll be inspired to tell the story of my appreciation for those who opened my eyes $50 international and guided my steps. Or it could happen to you. 4 El Firulete July 2001 On Our Cover
n Thursday, May 3, 2001, the history, the event that is, according to day awakened with another the New York Times, "inseparable from Planet Tango's Alberto Paz and explosion of blue skies, blind- the culture it presents," invited Tango to Valorie Hart show their appreciation O to a receptive audience at the end of ing sunshine and a collage of clouds to be part of the cultural feast, the music their performance of Vicente Greco's remind us that Spring time in New and dance of the city of Buenos Aires, OJOS NEGROS Orleans was in full bloom. its South American sibling. At 1:05 PM CST, New Orleans' It was a glorious day for Argentine The entire fairgrounds are lined with Milonga Tango Band opened on the Tango, for those who were privileged to food stands, arts and crafts booths, with Lagniappe Stage of the New Orleans represent it, and in particular it marked a theme stages spread over the entire Jazz & Heritage Festival with Fran- major milestone for the Tango commu- periphery of the race track. The Tango cisco Canaro's EL INTERNADO and nity of New Orleans. Tango dancing program was assigned to the Lagniappe thus begun the celebration of the joy of friends continue to reach out to the Stage which is located in the paddock being able to dance, kicking up another community with the all inclusive area of the race track. It is beautifully notch our young community's awareness proposition of the embrace. surrounded by a manicured garden and a and love of the Argentine Tango and of all the people who partake of it. As Warren Mc Crocklin and Mary Anne Fischer stepped onto the stage, thou- sands of spectators were drawn to the enjoyment of the essence and allure of our dance for the first time. On this day, the first of the second week of Jazz Fest, musicians, chefs and artisans welcomed again thousands of visitors for another celebration of a cultural feast at the New Orleans Fair Grounds Race Course. For seven days, split between two weekends, the open air Heritage Fair combined the joy of a Jazz parade with the fervor of Gospel music as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival offered an unforget- table tribute to the authentic heritage of the state of Louisiana and the city of New Orleans. For the first time in its 32 years Septeto Milonga Tango Band July 2001 El Firulete 5 home made gumbo to the soul. The Festival began in 1970, when three hundred musicians entertained an audience half that number in New Orleans' historic Congo Square, site of today's Armstrong Park (as in Louis the Satchmo). Music legends Duke Ellington, Mahalia Jackson, Al Hirt, Sweet Emma Barrett, Percy and Willie Humphrey, and Pete Fountain performed. This year, thousands of musicians, chefs and artisans welcomed 618,000 people for a 10-day cultural feast held again at the Fair Grounds Race Warren and Mary Anne dancing to EL Course. The two-weekend, open air Jane Harvey Brown sang the Tangos INTERNADO Heritage Fair, offered a dazzling series CAMINITO and MADRESELVA of evening concerts, and an important high rise glass enclosed building that program of educational workshops houses the "official" boxes. With plenty making the event unique among Ameri- of space to dance, those tangueros who cans festivals. came to join the orchestra and the On May 3, 2001 the recorded dancers, brought their dance shoes and attendance was 59,000 and the estimated spontaneous dancing erupted during the audience at the Lagniappe Stage during hour long presentation. the Tango presentation exceeded 3,000.
Jazz Fest 2001 (April 27 - May 6) New Orleans' Septeto Milonga, A partial view of the "popular" where marked the 32nd celebration of Louisi- which was listed as Milonga Tango Aaron, Catherine, Sabina, Joe, Gwen, ana music, cuisine and crafts that each Band is directed by John Lutz (bass), Myra, and a few others tangueros years trumpets the arrival of springtime and features Dave Ellington (piano), cheered, danced and had a great time in New Orleans. With its magical blend Matt Rhody (violin), Kat Fritz (vio- The group has been playing regu- of sights, sounds and emotion, the New lin), Chris Kohl (clarinet), Cale Pellick larly on Sunday evenings at Le Pavillon Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has (accordion) and Alan Kapulski (guitar). Hotel in the Central Business District, become a symbol of a diversity of Singer Jane Harvey Brown makes steps away from the French Quarter. cultures and brings the pleasure of a occasional appearances with the group. The NOLA Dance Troupe LOS CHE, is directed by Alberto Paz and Valorie Hart, and it was created to provide additional opportunities to JAZZ FEST SOUVENIR GUIDE LISTING, dancers who want to expand their dance participation in events and functions OFF BEAT, New Orleans' and Louisiana's alike. The group meets regularly at various dance studios around the city for Music Magazine. May 2001 issue, classes and rehearsals. Their first public appearance took place on April 9, 2001 Milonga Tango 5/3, LAGN, 1:05, Milonga is actually the at the Tango Show and Party held at name for the traditional songs of Argentinian cowboys, better the Rock 'N' Bowl Cafe. known as gauchos. According to tango enthusiast/novelist For Jazz Fest, the restricted space Jorge Luis Borges, "My informants all agree on one fact - the on stage limited the number of couples tango was born in the brothels." Therefore, this local tango dancing to three. Valorie and Alberto were joined for this performance by band combines the best of two worlds, home on the range and Warren McCrocklin and Mary Ann whore houses, where dancing is not usually the primary thing Fischer, and Gary and Phyllis Breaux. on people's minds. Photos by, Eva del Cid, Catherine Laspersches and Idalia Battle 6 El Firulete July 2001 Growing up in Buenos Aires, many Jazzed up about Tango times I fell asleep as a kid listening to the sounds of King Oliver, Louis Armstrong, Johnny Dodds, Bix A Handful of Emotions Beiderbecke and Sydney Bechet. I never dreamed that one day I would live in and walk the streets where those great Jazz musicians lived and played. Danc- ing Tango on the stage of the major Jazz Festival in New Orleans, in front of an curious foreign audience and surrounded by dear friends who have learned to love our dance, brought a handful of emo- tions that squeezed the ticking muscle on the left side of my chest. In the city of New Orleans many people believe in the spiritual presence of those mortally departed. Many souls regularly make their aura felt in and around the nooks and crannies of the Vieux Carre. Believing in ghosts is not required here. They exist. How could I explain otherwise the reparing for the performances at a Woman, who at this point would be confused face of my mother or the proud Jazz Fest involved hours of humming Por una cabeza with their tears in my father's eyes as they materi- rehearsal, practice and enjoyment. eyes getting moist. I was getting moist P alized for a moment from behind a We were six individuals, each one with because of the high humidity and the billowy cloud that was being carried a personal perspective, six sets of dark clothing I was wearing, but this is away by the trade winds? expectations, emotions and anxiety. what occupied my mind. What about Vicente Greco's I was the only one dealing with a I was humming Leguisamo solo, the puzzled looked when OJOS NEGROS special handful of emotions as I realized Tango that in three minutes describes was introduced as a "Troilo Tango?" I that among thousands of people enjoy- the prowess of legendary jockey, Ireneo winked at him with one of those que le ing a Tango show, I was perhaps the Leguisamo, a personal friend of Carlos vachache looks and hugging Miss only Argentine native there, and I was Gardel. The Tango has always been a Valorie we danced the best we could for feeling once again that unique apprecia- unsuspected witness of the social all the boys sitting up there on the tion of the Tango that can only be felt injustices taking place in Buenos Aires. popular section of the clouds. three feet or three thousand miles away So there I was, singing about the mo- from its birthplace. mentary truce of an otherwise bitter By Tangoman Having lived the first half of my life class struggle. I could see the blue collar in Buenos Aires I am able to understand workers standing on la popular, the the metaphysical queries of those who cheap ticket section of the stands, originally created a music for the trading cheers for the great jockey with dancers, then the lyrics for the listeners the well-to-do aristocracy occupying la and eventually the dance we were about oficial, the luxury sky boxes. to recreate far away from the living Francisco Canaro (El internado), source of the Argentine Tango. The Eduardo Arolas (La cachila), Vicente MTV like images flashing through my Greco (Ojos negros), Juan de Dios mind had an understandable degree of Filiberto (Caminito, Quejas de context. Our dance group arrived early bandoneon), Gerardo Matos and we walked a good quarter of a mile Rodriguez (La cumparsita), never on the sand of the race track to the only dreamed that almost one hundred years permanent structure, where on a regular after they penned some of the greatest day at the races, the public sits, the Tangos ever composed, a talented group jockeys get ready and the noble breed of of foreign musicians would blast those horses parade before and after each race. melodies through the power and inten- I can think of a few admirers of Al sity of a high quality, high fidelity Pacino's "Tango dancing" in a Scent of concert sound system. July 2001 El Firulete 7 Rolling with the good times the old cobblestones near the river bank. On Monday, April 9, 2001 a sound that was missing arrived to New Or- leans. It came from the Eastern shores A Sound That Had Been of the Rio de la Plata, another mighty river that unites Montevideo and Missing in New Orleans Buenos Aires, two cities fraternally related by the common sound of the Chronicle of the first Tango Show and Dance Party at the Rock 'N' original Tango. With its bragging and Bowl Cafe featuring live music with Quartet MALA JUNTA from Uru- sentimental accent, lazy and inciting, the moan of the bandoneon was heard in guay, and the debut of the NOLA Dance Troupe "Los Che" New Orleans. At 9 PM, in a run down hall remi- hose who hit the road on the traveler walks through traditions; the niscent of neighborhood clubs of endless journey on the path of narrow streets; the balconies overflow- Montevideo or Buenos Aires, the night the tango, travel through well- ing with flowers; the street lights that T shivered with the anticipation of a first known avenues where the emotions illuminate the night for wanderers as intersect at every corner and meet the happiness of the encounter with old and new friends. There are also less fre- quently traveled roads. Some wanderers, whose hearts beat to the sound of a tango, carry a flaming torch that blazes new trails so that those who Gerardo, Julio, Juan, Roz, Aaron and Linda come behind may warm their Gloria and Jorge hearts before moving on in search of their destiny waiting ahead. One such footpath leads to New Orleans, the Big Easy that rises defiantly on a crescent of the mighty Missis- sippi River. This is a harbor Alberto Paz and Valorie Hart city; a melting pot of races; a Gloria, Julio and Nelly "Bohemian soul" with a Graciela and Enrique resonant echo of old and new they look for, and find, in every door, sounds that celebrates the musical love affair. Gerardo Perez squeezed the the sounds of pistons; of strings; of essence that gave the world the happi- sounds of La Yumba from his instru- accordions; of drums and of voices that ness and the sadness of Jazz. ment and the floor filled with dancers, sing the experiences of life. When reaching New Orleans, the many hearing the phrasing of the This is a city of celebration. Brass bandoneon for the first time. Quartet bands lead the paraders Mala Junta began to write a new NOLA DANCE through the streets of chapter in the imponderable history of TROUPE "Los Che" the French Quarter the music of New Orleans. The Tango marching with the joy had its party and it had dressed up for (Left to right) that the music creates the occasion. Valorie, Phyllis, ahead of the second There is a new Tango port-of-call Aaron, Sabina, line of dancers and by the river, closer to home. Open arms Sean, Catherine, with the ever present awaiting to offer the fraternal embrace. Mary Anne, Warren, spirit of those who no Along with the traditional sounds of Gary, Melissa, Ed, longer exist, but have Alberto New Orleans, the yumba of the Tango, left their footprints on live or from digital tracks. 8 El Firulete July 2001 Collector's Corner Both CDs carry the common label: Grabaciones Historicas (Historic recordings) and the product presentation is first class; from the selection of Historic Recordings Anyone? themes itself, the mastering of the The Tango is the quintessential music genre of the River Plate region music, the attractive packaging and the in South America, and the result of the fusion of the Creole and accurate, knowledgeable and educa- immigrant cultures that collided in Buenos Aires at the dawn of the tional information contained in the liners in both English and Castellano. Twentieth Century With a commanding authority that By Alberto Paz research and knowledge affords, Blaya Member of the International Tango Collector's Club begins to explain in the liner notes that in the early 1900’s two very different t had been another beautiful Who could ask for anything more? cultures began to blend in Argentina, (I morning in New Orleans with the believe that to be more so in the city of Iusual daily parade of beer delivery Day Dreaming Interruptus Buenos Aires than in the rest of the trucks replenishing the stock of the Just about this time of the day, a country). countless watering holes which locals knock at the door surely seems like it is The local Creoles and the Euro- and visitors alike will begin to empty time to make the daily contribution to pean immigrants arriving everyday again as the sun goes down with crim- the brewsky funds of early risers on provided the metaphysical environment son flashes behind the Mississippi their way to the pub. There is something for the hybrid development of the Tango River. about honesty in panhandling that just dance which led to a fusion of existing The cleaning crews have been busy warms my heart. musical rhythms into the Tango of the bagging and hauling away the debris left But it is the postman delivering the Beginnings. behind by the last night-owls, who mail. I inspect the small package and This Tango Collection is Todo hiding their eyes from the golden rays of upon opening it, I am pleasantly sur- Tango’s tribute to the thousands of light rising from the East, headed for prised at finding two CDs sent from gifted, passionate artists who made it all shelter who knows where. Buenos Aires by Ricardo Garcia possible. Blaya, who is the Director of Todo Soon, the sounds of Hot Jazz, In De los Origenes a su Esplendor Tango, an Internet based International Dixieland, Blues, Zydeco and Cajun (From Its beginnings to Its Greatness), Tango Collectors Club which I had tunes will blast from sidewalks and we are shown the Tango’s technical and joined a while back. Now I remember clubs blending into the day to greet the musical progress. The contents sum up that one of the many benefits for mem- appreciative strolling crowds as they the creative process by means of an bers was the promise of receiving make their way through the art galleries academic and chronological approach. of the Rue Royale, the antique stores of periodical issues of compilations of hard Thus, you will first hear acoustic Chartres St. and the decadent store to impossible to find Tango music from recordings obtained with mechanical fronts of Bourbon St. to eventually the private collection of an exclusive systems where a live orchestra was settle down for a leisure lunch enjoying group that call themselves the captured by a gramophone, to be the many culinary offerings that the Coleccionistas Porteños de Tango. followed by electrical recordings Crescent City proudly boasts about. A Treasure of a Gift starting in 1926. From where I normally sit, there is The day immediately took upon The disk highlights the Tango’s best Tango music pouring out the open another purpose, as I began to listen to decades, a very special time with an windows of Planet Tango to the sur- the music while reading the well docu- amazing production in terms of quantity prise and curiosity of many unsuspect- mented liner notes that inspired the and quality of songs played by numer- ing passersby on their way back from a following account of my enlightened ous performers. For the first time the tour at the St. Louis cemetery, heading education. Tango was successful outside its birth- for Jackson Square two blocks away, The first CD is named, De los place, reaching audiences in Europe and possibly planning to stop by at Cafe Origenes a su Esplendor (From Its and the rest of America. Du Monde for chicory coffee and beginnings to Its Greatness), and the beignets. Great composers such as Angel second CD is named, La Epoca de Oro Villoldo, Ernesto Saborido, Eduardo Life couldn’t be better for a Tango (The Golden Years), in both cases Arolas, Ernesto Ponzio, Agustin bum. Let's see, I woke up, I can stand up referring to the Tango as the main Bardi, Gerardo Matos Rodriguez and and walk, and the CD player still works. protagonist. Vicente Greco created some of their July 2001 El Firulete 9 best work during this period including ence them for the first time in a rich masterpieces - that otherwise would be timeless classics such as La cumparsita, “digitally remastered” sound. further damaged as time goes by until El choclo, La morocha, Don Juan, El He has been making tapes and they are lost forever- and to keep the lloron, Mi noche triste, La cachila, selections for his closest friends for over TodoTango.com website active and Ojos negros and many more. forty years. This selections on CD are updated. Before launching the Club we On the second CD we are invited to by far the best he is ever done, a very made every effort to get support and explore the consolidation of the musical special collection for his new friends, funds both official and private, writes and rhythmic structure of the Tango among which I am very proud to be not Garcia Blaya, and we continued to do from the late 1920's on. only one of them, but also an admirer of so even after it's official opening. But it seems that in Argentina no one cares The world’s most important record- the respect and integrity with which about Tango or values our work of ing labels set up shop in Buenos Aires Ricardo Garcia Blaya has approached love. TodoTango.com still has no and Argentina’s own recording compa- this ambitious project for the good of sponsors, and because of these reasons, nies started to grow at a very fast pace. the Tango. it is now impossible for them to keep Tango was the world’s favorite social The Return of the Vultures going even with the support of its dance. Not a week had gone by when members. There were hundreds of performers Ricardo wrote me a note of apprecia- We have no words to thank the and orchestras and they recorded tion for having made public my enthusi- encouragement that you gave through everyday, bringing thousands of new asm about the release of the first two your membership, Blaya wrote to all records to the market. Without a doubt, CD's from the International the members, and we cannot ask for these were Tango’s Golden Years. We Collector's Club. anything else at this point. If you know start by experiencing De Caro’s innova- of any company or individual that loves tion, who dramatically increased the He also was letting me know that tango and would like to help the site we quality and sophistication of the ar- the International Tango Collectors will appreciate them contacting us. rangements, predicting the end of the Club has suspended its activities until old structure where several musicians further notice because of unexpected Meanwhile, the site is still active in played the same melody, often without a legal problems with the recording the best possible way, but it is clear that score, harmonic arrangements or industry. Although the law clearly the current Tango portal already repre- variations (this old structure of Tango supports the sharing of recordings in the sented a significant investment for the playing is called among musicians, a la public domain (they are more than fifty group, and they cannot afford to keep parrilla, if you can visualize a barbecue years old), some record companies have growing without new funding. grill loaded with ribs, steaks, shrimp, seized the opportunity to present legal We would like to state that even chicken, sausages and everything you arguments that will slow down the with all the unexpected problems and can throw into the barbi to cook all at activities of the Club, while their delays, they fulfilled their initial com- once). lawyers make "interpretations" of the promise with everybody, and they even law hoping to receive a percentage of Two tendencies forever divided the added additional time of free on-line something they do not own and that is access for all members. We also want to Tango and its followers, while sharing part of the world's heritage. the spotlight during this period: the make clear that due to the Club's unfor- avant-garde, represented by Julio De This turn of events is highly disgust- tunate interruption they did not charge Caro, Juan Carlos Cobian, Osvaldo ing and it is particularly sad in this case any payments for the second quarter. Fresedo, Cayetano Puglisi, and the because of what the Club represents: an They ask to be contacted in case traditional tipica of Francisco Canaro, opportunity to preserve Tango for they accidentally debited any service Francisco Lomuto and Roberto Firpo. enthusiasts and lovers of the genre all they could not provide, or in case The period also witnessed the debut of around the world. As Garcia Blaya puts somebody paid their fees for a full year the estribillista, the chorus singer, based it, Our economic model does not allow and still have not been credited yet. on a Canaro’s idea, previewing for the money for lawsuits on acquired rights, first time what would become el cantor neither we can accept further delays on de orquesta, the orchestra singer of the the whole process of delivering music Questions, commentaries, etc. about this 40’s. to our members. article are welcome. Write care of Planet The main objective of the Club is to Tango, 1000 Bourbon St., #202, New As Blaya sincerely acknowledges, Orleans, LA 70116 putting together a unique collection like give its members even more music, hoping to obtain in return a modest For more information regarding TODO this, is a collector’s dream, a chance to TANGO, Ricardo Garcia Blaya, and the revisit classic recordings that were economic support that will help them to International Collector’s Club, visit supposed to be lost forever and experi- digitally remaster collectible Tango
Fifth Annual Labor Day Weekend Tango Getaway Reno Hilton Resort and Casino RENO HILTON RESORT AND CASINO
August 31 - September 3, 2001 Five minutes from Reno, NV airport by courtesy shuttle Planet Tango is pleased to invite you to attend the Fifth Annual Labor Day Week- end Tango Getaway, once again to be held at the wonderful Reno Hilton Casino Everything under one roof and Resort in Reno, Nevada. This is still the original and best combination of classes, Large Guest Rooms; Five Restaurants; dancing and socializing at its best. Cafe; Fast Food; Elegant Casino; Three Showrooms; Shopping Mall; Bowling All classes held all day Saturday and Sunday, and Monday morning, are suitable for Alley; Cinema; Health Spa; Pool any and all levels of dancers. A concerted effort is made to maintain a balanced num- ber of men and women, couples and singles. Class size is kept to a level that allows All levels welcome everyone to get individual attention from each teaching couple. Singles - Couples Even ratio of men and women On Saturday night, you will be attending the Reno Tango Ball as our guest for dinner Two dinners included and a show produced by the teachers. Tango Boutique On Sunday night, you will be attending the Graduation Milonga as our guest for Clothing; CDs; Shoes; Videos; Art work dinner, and you may even be part of the great performances staged by the student body. It’s great fun! Spacious wood dance floors Reasonable class size Don't forget to bring your video camera to record the class material and the Private classes and mini workshops performances solely for your own personal use. available at extra cost.
Photo by Ed Cherrie GLORIA AND EDUARDO ALBERTO AND VALORIE PABLO AND BEATRIZ July 2001 El Firulete 13
There were no in-flight movies on If I were alive, this is the only place the way home, but we didn't need where I would teach. them; we watched videos of the Saturday night and Sunday night - Antonio Todaro, Chacarita, ARG - performances. It made the weekend last a few more hours. We really didn't need the airplane either, we Thank you for a wonderful weekend were flying so high after such a in Reno. I am looking forward to spectacular weekend. many more. Your choice of guest - Walter & MariLynne Kane, Harriman, NY instructors was wonderful and - provided good balance. - Ron Burke, Albuquerque, NM - I had a wonderful time in Reno. I am already looking forward to being We enjoyed meeting people from all there next year. You are both over the US and dancing at the wonderful teachers. evening milongas with new friends. Thank you again for having me The teachers were very kind to mix there. in and dance with us, as well. - Kana Kubota, NYC, NY - - Nancy and John, Santa Cruz, CA -
The only reason I never attended is All instruction was great and the because they won't let me blindfold best I have been exposed to since PRIX FIXE MENU the orchestra starting doing tango. There are no - Cholo, Mataderos, ARG - words to express my appreciation. Friday, Aug. 31 - Jack James, Albuquerque, NM - Welcome Milonga, 8:30 PM till Sunday, Sep. 2 Participants only Classes, 10 AM - 5 PM Graduation Milonga, 9 PM till Book your own room at a special Saturday, Sep. 1 Dinner, Students exhibition Planet Tango discount rate Classes, 10 AM - 5 PM Live music with Sexteto Tipico Arrabal before August 1, 2001. Reno Tango Ball, 9 PM till Open to the public. RSVP Dinner, Masters exhibition Call the Reno Hilton at, Live music with Sexteto Tipico Arrabal Sunday, Sep. 2 Open to the public. RSVP Classes, 10 AM - 12 PM 1.800.648.5080
Please sign me up for the Fifth Annual Labor Day Weekend Tango Getaway, Aug 31 - Sep 3, 2001
[ ] Regular tuition is $325. It includes all group classes, two dinners/shows and all three milongas. [ ] Special Early registration is $295 if mailed before August 15, 2001.
[ ] Reno Tango Ball only, Saturday night dinner/show and dance, $65 [ ] Graduation Milonga only, Sunday night dinner/show and dance, $65 Please mail payments to [ ] Both Saturday and Sunday dinner/shows and dance, $110 Planet Tango 1000 Bourbon St., #202 Print Name(s) ______New Orleans, LA 70116
Mailing Address ______504.592.8256 City ______State ______Zip ______E-mail: Phone ______E-mail [email protected]
I'm attending [_____] as an individual, [______] with a partner On line: Amount enclosed $ ______for ______person(s) http://www.planet-tango.com/reno2001.htm 14 El Firulete July 2001 Tango North America At Least You Can Visit
To paraphrase the author Thomas Wolfe, who says you can’t go home again, we say that at least you can visit.
She left New York City, her home for twenty-five years, to follow her heart to the Tango. He had left Buenos Aires, his home for twenty-five years, to grab a taste of the American dream and take it back home. Twenty seven years later they left this planet and created their own, Planet Tango. Six years have passed, five of them spent in the San Francisco Bay Area, and the last year spent most pleasurably in New Orleans. Prior to settling down to the bohemian life of the French Quarter, they had traveled extensively across the country on a regular basis, for the sole purpose of sharing the love of Tango and searching for a home port to drop anchors. New Orleans was that port, but their hearts still long for places and people who along the way have become a home away from home and a very dear extended family. Laura Lynch gets to appear in a lot of Albuquerque, NM A week earlier The Tango Club of pictures because allegedly she owns the Albuquerque welcomed Alberto and only digital camera in the Club. The camera seems to love her looks. Steve Fox and Donna Lefurgey Valorie back for their third visit. Jack decided to bless their partnership with James, current president of the organi- area of mega book store Page One. The love, laughter and dance on June 30, zation made sure that there were plenty social atmosphere and the intimate 2001. To walk down the aisle of the Old of recreational activities surrounding the setting of the room in a unobstructed San Ysidro Church in Corrales, New six day tour. corner of the store provided a pleasant Mexico, Steve selected Antonio Agri's The classes and workshops were venue for putting into practice the version of Gardel and Le Pera's El dia held at the Lloyd Shaw Dance Center, concepts learned earlier in the day. que me quieras. Following the cer- June 23-25. There were three dance On Sunday, following another emony: dessert and dancing. opportunities. Friday night, they held a intense class session at Lloyd Shaw, How does one handle a wedding party at Lloyd Shaw to welcome A&V, Marian and Fred Honorio unveiled a when half of the guests are from the who reciprocated the gesture by giving a new venue for the ABQ Tango commu- Albuquerque Tango Club and half are Tango lesson prior to the actual dance nity: The Cooperage Restaurant. The not? For weeks prior to the ceremony, party. bar room, next to the restaurant which is Steve worked very hard on mixing On Saturday evening (a wishful shaped like a barrel, has the touch and music that included Tangos, milongas, stretch in the land of enchantment where feel of an authentic Tango dance hall valses and a few other rhythms that the sun sets at 9 PM), Kathy Economy where the space limitations and the included salsa, swing and merengue. held her monthly dance party in the cafe necessary floor craft needed to navigate the floor separate the men from the boys. Monday night was Tango Barre for the ladies, who always look forward to spending an evening sharing the insight- ful, sometimes witty and irreverent, but always on the money, fundamental concepts and techniques for women taught by Valorie. Dancing at 5,000 feet above sea level proved to be a challenge for the Tangoman who was heard saying, You Steve with Valorie in should see me dance six feet below sea Reno last year at the end Donna with Alberto in level. The Wedding Invitation of the Fourth Labor Day Reno last year Tango Getaway July 2001 El Firulete 15 Harriman, NY folklore dances with names like The Hudson chacarera, zamba Valley Tango commu- & malambo. nity celebrated their second year of exist- Another ence last May. Walter favorite is Danel and MariLynne Kane & Maria's have been instrumental Bailemos Tango, in building and main- given in two or taining a congenial and three rotating healthy environment venues every Carlos Quiroga for the enjoyment of A partial view of the "survivors" at the end of day two in QQ Tango dancing. Saturday night, They hosted Alberto and alternating between a Valorie for their fifth visit to the downtown and a Hudson Valley. The workshops midtown dance studio were held in Harriman, and an old ballroom/ Poughkeepsie and New York auditorium at the City over a ten day period. 92nd Y. This is a classic milonga with New York, NY live music by The She has never totally discon- New York Trio. Coco Arregui nected from her New York City "Tango has been good to me," seems to say A couple of home. They visit a couple of Tangringo as the Kanes sport their tangomobiles hundred dancers turn up regularly. times a year. Yet as each year during a break between classes passes, on arrival there is a and nearby discounted parking." It New Orleans, LA feeling that nothing has changed, yet sounded enticing enough to take a 90 This is a city open 24/7 all year everything has changed. Once you’re minutes ride from the Hudson Valley, not a card carrying resident riding the around for the sole purpose of indulging but the waiters at the restaurant swore in the excesses of pure decadent and subway everyday; walking the streets that never heard of such a thing. with the purpose of day to day life; unadulterated fun that includes but is moving your car from one side of the Around midnight local and visiting not limited to, great music, great food, street to the other every morning at 8 teachers made up most of the dancing great shopping and great sight-seeing. A.M.; meeting friends for dinner at the crowd. The new wood dance floor is The much overblown tales of high heat neighborhood hot spot; dancing Tango beautiful. Oscar Mandagaran and and humidity have been dealt with ever every night at places, most of which are Natalia Hills gave an excellent perfor- since air conditioning finally made it to walking distance from mance. this understated region of the country. It your apartment, things Two other milongas has the old charm and manners of a third change. are perennial favorites. world country, except that you need no vaccines and passports. English spoken, New on the Tango One is on Thursday nous parlons Francais, si parla Italiano, scene is Babalu, a Cuban nights, the excellent La se habla castellano. They dance tango. nuevo style restaurant in Nacional hosted by the Broadway theater Coco Arregui with Recently, the Casa Argentina of district hosted (and dee Viviana Parra playing New Orleans celebrated 25 de Mayo jayed) by Carlos good music. This is THE with a first class Tango for export dinner Quiroga, brother of Argentine-in-exile and show at Le Meridien Hotel. Live Guillermina Quiroga. hangout in NY, as music was provided by a trio that Carlos also publishes attested by the mate included Pablo Aslan (bass) of the New ReporTango. A large and sipping argentino York Trio , Mauricio Najt (piano) also snappy ad for Babalu in professionals in atten- with NY Trio, and David Alsina the spiffy looking dance who true to their (bandoneon) of the Sexteto Tipico ReporTango said "$10. Oscar Mandagaran and original dance training Arrabal. Marga Mitchell from Venezu- cover, $15. prix fixe menu Natalia Hills burst into impromptu ela via New York, who is married to 16 El Firulete July 2001 SOCIAL SCENE By Cholula Johnson The "Tango dancers" table at Casa Argentina's annual social soiree. From left to right, Tangoman, Zydeco Linda, Eddie Traspie, Miss Kitty, TangoG and Miss Phyllis, Kid Adrian and Miss Valorie. Not shown on the Photo by Teresa Klajner photo, Aaron the Baron and Mary De Tulip. Sideline bleachers were also made available for frugal dancers Rekindling a friendship that began four who skipped the dinner but wanted to watch the show years ago in San Francisco, Tangoman greeted Guillermina and Roberto with a Raul Jaurena, director of the New with the warm New Orleans welcome York Tango Trio who didn't make the usual Tango, sound tracks included. trip, sung her usual repertoire of lounge acrobatic classics such as Cambalache and moves and At the end of the evening, a group Caminito. Headliners of the floor show clean, staged of New Orleans Tango dancers attend- were ex-partners Roberto Reis and routines ing the function wondered if this year Guillermina Quiroga, who teamed up from the they would be allowed to dance Tangos. once more just for the occasion. They critically Casa Argentina's ex-president Luz were joined on the dance floor by acclaimed hit Caputo, a Tango dancer herself, al- Caroline Jaurena, daughter of Marga Forever lowed the Tango musicians to play a few and Raul, and her handsome partner extra songs. As the general attendance filed for the door, the dance floor filled Francisco Forquera. The exhibition, Pablo Aslan, pleasantly surprised to find that drew spontaneous applause from with the joy and the dancing enjoyment out that Miss Valorie has lived in New of the New Orleans tangueros. the mesmerized audience, was filled Orleans for almost one year now July 2001 El Firulete 17 TIRED OF WATCHING EGOCENTRIC DJ'S BEHAVE LIKE KINDERGARTEN BRATS? Scared that even with your limited knowledge you can tell (and go home sulking) when the music "sucks"? MUSIC COMPILATIONS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES AND PERSONAL ENJOYMENT Carefully selected and expertly mixed classics of Argentine Tango, Milonga and Vals music for dancing.
OSVALDO PUGLIESE, The Legacy, vol 1 (turn the most recalcitrant DJ into a purring pussycat) CANARO by Canaro, (hello! he became a millonaire playing this music strictly for dancing) CARLOS DISARLI, The Lord of the Tango (even the lord is not perfect, so this is the best of his best) TANGOS WITH HARMONICA, (hey, there is a limit to strict codes and protocols, but don't abuse) ARGENTINE TANGO TANDAS 1, (dance to what they play in Buenos Aires and be home by midnight) DONATO RACCIATTI, El Oriental, (show off by pointing out that this was the D'Arienzo from Uruguay)
Each CD is $15, complete set only $80. Includes First Class mailing. Send your check to, Planet Tango 1000 Bourbon St., #202 New Orleans, LA 70116 For details, visit http://www.planet-tango.com/music.htm El Firulete The Argentine Tango Magazine A suscription for yourself or a gift to a friend 12 issues for $30 in the USA, $40 in Canada, $50 international 4135 S. Carrollton Ave., New Orleans, LA 8:30 PM - 1 AM Name: ______Spectacular Show at 10 PM Address: ______Nestor & Patricia City: ______Alberto & Valorie State: ______Zip: ______Argentine Folk Dance Exhibition by Javier Juarez Phone: ______E-mail: ______NOLA Dance Troupe LOS CHE
Send check or money order to: Come and celebrate Argentina's Independence Day (July 9); Bastille Day (July 14); Valorie’s Birthday; Eva's Birthday; Planet Tango Aaron’s Birthday and the 1 year anniversary of 1000 Bourbon St., #202 Valorie & Alberto moving to New Orleans! Dance to the greatest hits of the Golden Years with DJ Tangoman New Orleans, LA 70116 Admission $10 For more info call Planet Tango 592-8256 (www.planet-tango.com) 18 El Firulete July 2001 direction of the line of dance. This general direction of the line of dance is counter clockwise, therefore the Argen- tine Tango is a left turn dance. This is mostly the result of the fact that the man Chapter 23, Copyright (c) 2001 Planet Tango embraces with his right arm bringing the woman's left arm and shoulder as close Dance floors come in all shapes, so the challenge of navigating any as possible (and comfortable) on the floor while dancing the music, protecting the woman, and respecting right side of his upper torso. He creates the presence of other dancers around, should be the top priority of a larger separation on his left side by any man who aspires to be considered a good Tango dancer. Al- raising his left arm and holding her right though the woman's role in the Tango is to ride fully trusting her arm extended forward at shoulder's partner's skills and his consideration for her safety and the safety of height. the other dancers, her aspirations to also be considered a good dancer should include that she also be fully aware of the directions in The Fundamental Tango Move which her displacements are guided by her partner. When a couple readies to begin the Tango is a Left Turn Count Basic, or worse, trying the dance (Salida), imagine that they stand Flavor of the Month "cool" step on different "rings" of concentric lines courtesy of the local "teacher," the one of dance (think about the multiple lanes Dance of a track and field oval). The man is in For years people have been taught who never takes classes, but somehow manages to keep getting repeated a lane closer to the center, say lane 2, the Eight Count Basic, a pattern some while the woman is on a lane closer to think was created by stage dancers on business mostly because s/he is so nice, s/he is a pioneer, s/he is so dedicated. It the outer edge of the dance floor, say tour who saw the opportunity to make lane 3. extra money teaching foreigners to may have never occurred to someone, to When they move into the line of dance Tango. Choreography is the core give him/her a bouquet of flowers, a box dance, they do so always going up and of stage/fantasy Tango dancing, and the of bon bons, a watch, or a certificate of down different lanes rather than in front most used and widely recognized pattern appreciation, rather than continuing to of each other on the same lane. It is a is the Salida Simple of Juan Carlos encourage his/her state of denial. gentle or sharp zig zag displacement to Copes, which is done in time with the When a man approaches the woman the left of the couple. To accomplish 4x8 structure of modern Tango. This he has invited or accepted to dance with, this, the man starts with his weight on became the basis for the Eight Count the first thing he should do is to face his right leg and the woman with her Basic that has shackled the creativity towards the outside of the dance floor, weight on her left leg (this should be and kept at a basic level the dancing of with the line of dance to his left. He indicated, "marked" by the man, even many who choose not to rebel. should place the woman in front of him, if they have done the move a million In trying to quantify and assimilate with her back closer to the outer edge of the dance floor, her line of vision being times already). Every weight shift by the the Argentine Tango, an improvisational man should be clear, precise and deci- and very individualistic urban dance able to see the entire dance floor behind the man, and to her right into the L.O.D. sive. Every weight shift of the woman, form, to its methods and protocols, change of axis, should be initiated and ballroom studios, their salespersons and Even if the man is an Eight Count controlled by the man. The sooner a their customers, traded off the unique Basicochist, they'll end up closer to the woman understands this, the more time American rugged individualism for a outer of the dance floor rather than she can dedicate to learn how to find hefty sum of money, and the frustration falling into the center. Besides, he will and hold her axis, so she can move with of wanting to dance the Tango, but be protecting his partner with his back the man NOW, not later after she being able to only talk about it without facing the busy traffic coming from wrongly assumed the role of a follower showing much for their passion, dedica- behind. Further, executing a pattern will and took time to figure out the "lead," tion, time and money. always provide the woman with a safe process the proper "follow," and ordered Look around and see how many space of where to move, without risking her brain to move her body. By then the men start the dance facing the line of her body to the oblivious actions of music is several beats ahead. others who have not read this article. dance placing the woman in front of Show me lead and follow in Tango, them, as a weapon to hit or to be hit by Finally, because all figures have a set up, an execution, and an ending, they and I'll show you a couple who is not other people. Observe how after eight dancing to the music. steps, they have fallen into the center of can be thought of as part of the correct the dance floor from where they will navigation of the dance floor, and both The most common initiation of the wander aimlessly repeating the Eight dancers will be aware of continuing Salida, is a motion to the left of the their displacement into the general couple, which is accomplished using July 2001 El Firulete 19 both dancers natural opening of their bring her in to his left side placing her throats of curious bystanders, like free legs, the man's left and the woman's again in front of him by marking a front zealous disciples of some looney tuney right (the side step). The man opens to cross of her left leg in front of her right religious sect? One more, why do self- his left by going down one lane (he is leg. The orientation of her body and respecting men/women allow that to lane 1, and she is on lane 2) how the left leg crosses in front of the happen? Next, to continue moving to the left right leg will be a function of the On the average, it takes the better of the couple into the line of dance, they direction established by the previous part of an hour to teach and learn the both need to use their other leg (the opening step, and not the stereotyped fundamental concept of the Salida as a man's right and the woman's left) so the figure of the "tight pretty crossing" of component of a Left Hand Turn (Giro) legs MUST cross in order to bring the the shoes from the Eight Count Basic at the intellectual level of a high school weight changes into the left of the days. senior. The times it takes to accomplish couple. Legs can either cross in front or From this point the Salida pattern the movement proficiently is a function behind the other one. The man crosses can be repeated, using the natural of supervised practice, positive feedback his right leg in front of his left leg openings to the left of the couple to and a healthy mental attitude. stepping up to lane 3, thus marking steer the couple around the general It is understandable that people who clearly the crossing of the woman's left shape of the dance floor. have been there, done that, might resist behind her right leg landing on lane 4 In a Salida, the woman always the stunning logic of something so (the second step of the salida). His repeats the following sequence with her fundamentally simple. But then, most lower body is slightly to the left of her legs produced by the rotation of her hips teachers can't see the connection be- lower body giving the optical illusion as she shifts axis: right opens, left tween a left hand turn and the countless that he stepped into her right side, crosses behind, right opens, left Salidas they come up with. Well, however their upper torsos must keep crosses in front. This is for the sole somebody had to tell Christopher the shape of the embrace so she does not purpose of displacing her body to her Columbus that the world was round, end up dancing in his armpit. right (the left of the couple) into the line even though quite a few were inciner- The third step to continue the Salida of dance. The subtleness of this motion ated for even attempting to say so into the line of dance is again similar to have caused some to describe it as a before. the first in which the natural opening of grapevine. It is not. They are still Just imagine having to perfect only the man's left leg marks the opening of looking for the unfortunate mouth who three steps. Think about the enjoyment the woman's right. As with every natural first uttered the term molinete. It is not. and fun you've been missing so far while opening this is a point where changes of It is the Fundamental Basic Tango trying to process each figure, each direction take place to make the Salida a Movement for the woman, that results pattern, out of context, with its own very gentle left turn on a curve with a when the couple progresses into the line "sets of steps," and the personal spin of radius that extends from San Francisco of dance moving at an angle on different the person who taught it to you. Think to New York, or a very tight one where lanes with the woman on the outer lane. what it would be like to be in that the woman actually moves around the The crossing of her legs behind and in smooth, elegant, sensual, passionate, man (yes, you guessed it, the salida is a front of each other is mostly accom- playful, totally in control, special state component of the left turn giro!). plished by a gentle rotation of the hip of mind, which is called A Giro State of The range of motion of the man's where her axis is. This allows their Mind. opening to his left with his left leg upper bodies to stay silently connected Listen to those who want you to varies from a straight forward going up within the confines of the embrace. perfect your weight changes and the to lane 5, to a square lateral motion A Giro State of Mind management of your axis, then do it. staying on lane 4, as long as the leg Perfect the way you clearly shift your does not cross over his right axis so his Why do very few dancers use turns axis from leg/hip to leg/hip. Then free weight change in this step will always to the left as part of their bread-and- your body so it can move naturally. Feel be to his left. The opening of the butter bag of tricks is one of those the rotation of your hip when you are woman's right leg MUST be allowed to imponderables that defies logic. Why holding your axis. There is no other way fall where it is marked by the opening most dancers dance into each other's for your free leg to move but in a gentle decision made by the man, and not armpits is easier to understand: they curve, whether it opens, it crosses arbitrarily sent back as the third step were taught the "basics" in a vacuum, behind or it crosses in front. Be aware of learned during the days of the Eight out of context with the reality of the your partner's axis so the trajectory of Count Basic! dance floor, sort of dancing by connect- your free leg will naturally move around Finally the man will bring his right ing dots. Why is it that those who know your partner's axis. In the very special leg to a close next to his left to allow the less about the dance feel compelled to Giro State of Mind, you can now woman to catch up with him. He will jump at the opportunity of forcing the dance. Eight Count Basic down the proverbial 20 El Firulete July 2001
Alberto Paz and Valorie Hart are renowned for their superb, thorough, fair and conceptually clear teaching skills. They cut through the rhetoric and gimmicks that keep dancers from fully becoming the best Tango dancers they can be, by sharing a time honored method of learning to improvise the Tango at the social level. Their classes are considered A Dance Make Over from Head to Toe, always focusing on elements of floor craft, musi- cality, creativity and the signature concept of la marca for improvisation used by experienced dancers the world over. They have been documenting their teaching tours around the country in their tutorial Tango, Our Dance, an ongoing series of articles published in this magazine and available on line at the planet Tango website. The tutorial has become a valuable source of references and inspiration for many of today's younger genera- tion of teachers. Fall and winter dates available. 1000 Bourbon St., #202 New Orleans, LA 70116 504.592.8256 www.planet-tango.com [email protected] Photo by Ed Cherrie
Planet Tango 1000 Bourbon St., #202 New Orleans, LA 70116
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