Argentine Tango KnowledgeBase

Until the mid-1990s, tango was understood in groups of steps, or sequences. The Cochabamba Investigation Group analyzed tango and identified the basic Elements, from which dancers can compose.

There are 25 distinct tango Elements (see the Lexicon), each with a number of variations ranging from 5-100. We can do any variation with a number of different dynamics bringing our total expressive possibilities well beyond 1000.

The technique for each Element is consistent across its variations, so once we learn how to go looking for variations, and how to move with different dynamics we have a huge vocabulary at our disposal.

Dancing from the Elements empowers dancers to to express every music, challenge partners to maintain intense concentration, and use space skillfully for better floorcraft. Improvisation skills are essential to navigating crowded dance floors and dancing on diverse music.

Regardless of which “style” of tango you prefer, all Argentine Tango relies on the same skills.

We studied and analyzed every tango move to understand its biomechanics.  We describe motion in terms of position and action of joints and contraction of muscles. We use scientific terms to describe communication between the bodies and the science of animal gaits to describe the various ways four legs can move along.

All of our biomechanical claims have been evaluated by two physiologists, Brendan Roach of Wellington’s BodyLab and Michael Chang of Sydney University.

We distilled technique to a memorable set of just 5 tools. Direct and clear instructions for sublime connection, balance, clear communication, and fluid movement.

The tools enable you to diagnose problems, analyze movements to learn from any teacher or video, and to help fellow dancers.

Most students go to class and see a new sequence each week. They have difficulty remembering this sequence and integrating what they learn into their dance.

Students also know that to dance more smoothly and gracefully they need to train their bodies, but they aren’t sure what exactly to practice.

How TangoForge can help

Of course group classes are more fun and social than videos, and of course it’s helpful to feel expert execution directly with a teacher.

But many teachers don’t offer clear, actionable instruction for both roles. Our Digital School provides precise, empowering information.

Just sit down and watch the 10 hours of the MasterCourse. Just by doing this you will grasp the scope of the tango curriculum, the logic of variations of the elements, and how technique relates to seemingly different movements.
Invite a practice partner (or two) to work with you and plan a schedule to work through the MasterCourse.
On your own, use the Exercise Center for 5 minutes of daily exercise to improve your muscles. Use the Practice Courses for twice weekly solo tango training.

Students also receive detailed study guides.