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- 217 S Claremont St, San Mateo, CA
- +1 (415) 851-6501
Welcome to the captivating world of Argentine Tango, a dance that weaves together beauty, sensuality, and intimate connection. Originating in Buenos Aires, Argentina and Uruguay in the late 19th century, this dance has flourished into a beloved art form that transcends borders and continues to captivate dancers worldwide.
In recognition of its cultural significance, Argentine Tango was declared a UNESCO World Heritage in 2009, showcasing its profound impact on the dance community.
The essence of Argentine Tango lies in the freedom of improvisation and the deep connection forged between dance partners as they interpret the music. As you embark on your Tango journey, you’ll find yourself drawn to “milongas,” the vibrant social dance parties where Tango truly comes alive. Additionally, you’ll discover two closely related dances: Milonga and Vals. While sharing the spirit of Tango, these dances offer distinct rhythms that add a delightful variety to your dancing experience. Attending a “milonga” will expose you to a fusion of Tango, Milonga, and Vals melodies, expertly curated by talented DJs.
Join us for an enchanting evening of Argentine Tango Dance Classes at the Motion Arts Center dance and fitness studio nestled in downtown San Mateo! Our classes cater to dancers of all levels, whether you’re taking your first steps or have been immersed in Tango for years. Prepare to be swept away by the intricate footwork, the close embrace, and the emotional connection that Tango offers.
Taught by our experienced and award winning instructors, you’ll delve into the fundamentals of this passionate dance style, building a solid foundation and expanding your skills with each class, ensuring that you feel supported, inspired, and encouraged to explore the true essence of Argentine Tango.
So come on down, discover the magic of this captivating dance form, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Argentine Tango. Let your passion ignite as you embark on this extraordinary dance journey with us.
Tango Beginner Level Class: In this class you will learn the fundamentals of the Argentine Tango (this class is geared toward beginning students but it is open to everyone who would like to continue to improve the basic elements of this dance). We start with exercises in balance, coordination, body posture and continue with tango walking, lead and follow communication, navigation on the dance floor and musicality.
Tango Intermediate Level Class: This is the right class for you if you have been taking our Beginner Level Class for a period of at least 3 months (this depends on your pace of learning) or by the teachers recommendation. In this class you will learn the subtleness of this dance and amazing patterns that make the tango so special!
Tango Advanced Level Class: This is the right class for you if you have been dancing tango for a period of at least a few years (this depends on your pace of learning) or by the teachers recommendation. In this class you will be learning more complex figures where the connection, navigation and musicality will be always emphasized.
What is Vals? Vals means waltz in Spanish and it is one of the three rhythms of the Tango family. At a tango dance party, the DJ will always play tango, vals and milonga songs.
What is a Milonga? The word Milonga can refer in Spanish to two different things: one is the party where you go to dance tango (like our Milonga Sentimental) and the other is the name of one of the three rhythms of the tango family (Tango, Vals and Milonga).
At a milonga dance party, the DJ will play “tandas” which are sets of 3 or 4 songs of the same rhythm (Tango, Vals or Milonga). After each set, the DJ will play a “cortinas” (in Spanish means curtains) which is non tango-music of around 30 to 45 seconds long to clear the dance floor.
Tip: Someone that frequents the Milonga party is called a “milonguero or milonguera”.
We host our Tango Dance Party called “Milonga Sentimental” every Saturday from 8pm-12am. Occasionally we will have live music, tango singers and guest teachers performing.
Who can attend? Dancers of all levels can attend the milonga. Milongas are the best places to see people dancing tango. It is the place to see tango in its own environment. It is a great opportunity for you, specially during your first visits to the milongas, to watch the dance, to see the dancers. You will learn a lot just from watching! Come, have a good time and experience meeting new people!
To learn about what we teach in each class please visit our Class Descriptions page.
For the most common questions about our classes please see our FAQ’s page.
We look forward to see you in class soon! If you have any questions please Contact Us.
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