Argentine Tango

Argentine Tango

Music – Tango 4/4
Tempo – 24 measures of 4 beats per minute
– 96 beats per minute
Pattern – Set
Duration – The time required to skate 2 sequences is 1:10 min.

Patterns, Step Charts & Additional Information

“The Argentine Tango is a sinuous dance and should be skated with strong edges and considerable élan. Good flow and fast travel over the ice are essential and must be achieved without obvious effort or pushing. […]

This tango is danced to the rhythm of Latin American tango music where the musical count is 1-2-3-4-and-1, etc. This differs from the Spanish tango rhythm of 1-2-and-3-4-1, etc. The many varied step sequences in this dance are complementary to the dramatic and romantic character of the music. Dancers must at all times be aware of the rhythmic timing and reflect this in the execution of steps and in expressive interpretation of the music. Prolonged free leg extension, upright, graceful carriage and good unison are needed for this dance. Where appropriate, rotations must be fast but controlled. The partners should make maximum use of the interpretive elements of the dance, including the short steps, quick turns and serpentine movements.”

Inventors – Reginald J. Wilkie and Daphne B. Wallis
First Performance – London, Westminster Ice Rink, 1934