Workshop learning
Someone recently commented in passing that it is extremely difficult to learn and progress in Tango by attending special one-off workshops. By the way, he is quite a good dancer, and he is certainly not disputing the value in workshops. It’s just the instructional benefits which he has serious doubts about. For example, there is a lot to be said of the awe-inspiring nature of workshops, which gives all of us the extra impetus to carry on.
Popularity: 6%
Imagination
Had a ‘revelation’ in the shower last night.
I firmly believe (and have experienced) that if I held the image, or more of a sensation really, of a ‘model’ dancer in my head while dancing, I can begin to approach the style of that particular dancer. Since I am one of a very few slightly more experienced leaders in Singapore who has slightly resisted against dancing as a follower (despite all the commonly perceived benefits of leader dancing the role of the follower, I might add), just had the crazy idea that, perhaps I can approach the follower’s role the same way!? Anyway, should have a chance to find out tonight!
Popularity: 13%
Incremental improvement
A Swedish Tango instructor couple Jan and Marta is currently visiting Singapore. Since their website expressly highlighted that they teach a social style in the “milonguero close-embrace” – in their words, “a mixture of tango milonguero and traditional tango de salon” – I was naturally quite keen and decided to attend their classes. Personally I feel that in order to become a well-rounded dancer, it is necessary for me to be aware and familiar with the social form as well as the more athletic forms of Tango.
Popularity: 5%
Simplification
I have observed the following pattern in the development of leaders (especially those who have managed to stay with Tango for at least one year) in our Tango community in Singapore.
Popularity: 7%