How Do You Choose Tango Dance Music?
Tango is a diverse musical genre, and its many manifestations are captured in the equally diverse tango dance styles you can see danced at a milonga. Choosing tango dance music requires knowledge of the dance and the music, as well as an understanding of the conventions of playing music for dancing tango. Understand the categories of tango music. Tango can be divided into eras as well as genres. Early tango music is rhythmic, while tango in the late 40s and 50s is more melodic. Nuevo tango, including classic composers like Astor Piazzola and newer groups like Narcotango, takes elements of tango but builds on them with other musical references. Alternative tango music may not be tango at all, but still has a rhythm that tango can be danced to. Vals (or waltz) and milonga should be considered in any dance mix as well. Know the type of dancing that matches each music style. Rhythmic tango is best for small and close dancing, while more melodic tango encourages more dramatic movements. Nue
