Introduction to Argentine Tango - ICBDAThe International Tango, perfected by the Germans, employs a...

Argentine Tango

AT - Intro - 1

Introduction to Argentine Tango

We collected the following ideas to assist in comfortable dancing. These ideas are not absolutes. Many of the following items may help the dancer's comfort & confidence. The Figure Descriptions are, as near as we can tell, the current way we use them in ROUND DANCING and may not agree with the descriptions found in Ballroom literature, education, and elsewhere. Also, by modifying slightly, from the original ballroom terminology, some of the figure names, we hope to make them easier for the average Round Dancer to pronounce and cue.

History: The Gauchos in Argentina created the tango, inspired by the music played in the

local taverns. The addition of an unusual musical sound -- violins and an Argentine squeeze box called the Bandoneon -- added to the dance. Argentine Tango can be a very suggestive dance and the Argentineans banned it just before World War I. It surfaced again in Paris where certain refinements made it popular all over Europe. Many people associate this rhythm with Rudolph Valentino, who made it popular when he danced it in a 1921 movie. The International Tango, perfected by the Germans, employs a more staccato type of movement and a military-like precision, quite unlike Argentine Tango.

Characteristics: The character of Argentine Tango is smooth, flowing, slow and quick

movements, as opposed to the staccato movement used in International Tango. Since the tempo of Argentine Tango is moderately slow, even a beginner will not find it too difficult. In the more advanced figures, the man manipulates, twists and sometimes kicks near the lady's legs. The man leads the dance by applying pressure to the lady's waist, hand and arm (We call this system of leading Marcacion, or marking). Argentine Tango is not a violent nor a sexist dance. It is a dance of feeling in which the man drives (leads) the woman. It's like two persons talking without words. We often compare Argentine Tango to two people in love: They fight, they're happy, they disagree, but at least they are together.

Argentine Tango has a variety of different types of figures. Below is a list of the more common Argentine Tango figures, by group: BASIC Basic American Basic Backing Basic

TRANSITIONAL Tango Draw Back Tango Draw Back Tango Close

FIGURE 8 Doble Cruzada Doble Ocho Estorbar Ocho Para Atras Ocho Pasada Sentada

PICTURE Back Corté Oversway Oversway Flicks Promenade Sway Side Corté

CROSSING/SWIVELING Advance Corté Cobra Crisscross Doble Cruz Lanzadera Outside Swivel Promenade Vine Puerta Same Foot Fans Serpiente Vid

STOPPING Parada Left Ending for Parada Right Ending for Parada Lady's Gancho Man's Gancho Continuous Gancho

WALKING/ROCKING Gaucho Argentine Walks Progressive Tango Rocks Curving Progressive Tango Rocks Medio Corté Back to Leg Lift Forward to Leg Lift Turning Doble Corté Parallel Rocks Promenade to Counter Promenade Tango Crosses and Flick

Argentine Tango Introduction (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Intro - 2

Some Argentine Tango figures resemble those done in International Tango, American Tango and Paso Doble. We refer to the figures, listed in the section above, as Argentine Tango. Choreographers may opt to use additional figures from International Tango, American Tango, and Paso Doble.

Timing: We dance Argentine Tango to four-count music that usually has a marching

type sound. Most basic figures require one to two measures of music. A few sources described Argentine Tango with 2/4 timing (slow equal 1 beat, quick equals 1/2 beat), but we are describing the figures in this section as using 4/4 timing.

Rhythm: Argentine Tango has two basic rhythms: SLOW-SLOW QUICK-QUICK-SLOW

and SLOW-SLOW SLOW-SLOW. For this discussion, SLOW (S) equals two beats of music and QUICK (Q) equals one beat of music.

Body Mechanics: The top line and hold in Argentine Tango are somewhat similar to

that in International Latin. Stand 6-9" apart with the body and head upright. Your body weight is over the balls of the feet, not back on the heels. Each partner supports his or her own weight only. Keep your shoulders parallel to your partner's on all closed, open and contra-banjo figures. The man places his right hand on the lady's left shoulder blade with his elbow slightly rounded. The lady places her left hand around or on top of the man's right arm with her elbow rounded and over the man's elbow. Hold the man's left arm approximately between the lady's eye level and the top of her head. The more advanced Argentine Tango dancer may wish to have the man's right arm further around the lady's back, almost to the center of her back. Also, the lady may wish to place her left hand on the man's shoulder, neck, back or upper arm. We keep the heads upright, whether in closed or open position, depending on the figure. When the couple is comfortable with the mechanics of the figures and the body, they can use a variety of other head positions, to give the tango more flavor. These head positions include, forehead to forehead, man's right cheek to lady's left cheek, man's & lady's right cheeks together and looking at partner with heads tilted slightly towards one another. It is proper technique to Flex the legs, with the body weight over the supporting leg, in most cases.

Movement: We use the Latin, ball-to-flat type action, while dancing the Argentine

Tango. We point the toes outward, always, keeping the ankles and the knees veered inward. Take your steps using a series of tracking motions, an almost dragging of the big toe or heel forward and a dragging of the big toe backward into most figures. In several figures the knee of the moving foot is the first part of the leg to move.

Forward Movement:

{Heel Leads} Created by lowering into the knee of the supporting foot (i.e., right foot). The free foot (i.e., left foot) moves forward. The movement begins from the knee and then progresses to the hip. As you take the step, release the heel of the


AT - Intro - 3

supporting foot. Roll onto the flat of the free foot as you release the weight from the supporting foot.

{Ball Leads} Created by lowering into the knee of the supporting foot (i.e., right foot). Drag the big toe of the free foot forward lightly, with movement beginning from the knee and progressing to the hip. Take the step with the ball of the foot, releasing the heel of the other. Slightly drag the big toe of the free foot (i.e., left foot) forward beginning from the knee and progressing up to the hip. Roll onto the flat of the free foot, releasing the weight from the supporting foot.

Backward Movement:

Bend the knee of the supporting foot, then lower into the supporting leg (i.e., left foot). Reach the ball of the free foot (i.e., right foot) back from the knee and then stretch it from the hip. As you roll onto the flat of the free foot, leave the supporting foot in place, but release the weight.

Side Movement:

Lower into the knee of the supporting foot (i.e., left foot) and veer the knee slightly more inward. Reach the inside edge of the free foot (i.e., right foot) to the side. Release the weight on the supporting foot but leave the it in place as you take weight on the flat of the free foot.

Draw Movement:

The Drawing Movement is similar to the Side Movement without weight change. Lower into the knee of the supporting foot (i.e., right foot) and veer the knee slightly more inward. Veer the knee of the free foot (i.e., left foot) towards the supporting leg. Then draw the inside edge of the big toe toward the supporting foot. Do not release the weight on the supporting foot and leave the foot in place. Do not take weight on the free foot.

Rise And Fall: There is very little body or foot rise and fall in Argentine Tango. Argentine Tango is a very level dance that employs linear and circular movements but not much upward or downward movement.

Shoulder Lead: The Shoulder Lead occurs when the same foot and shoulder move

forward or backward at the same time, e.g., the right shoulder and the right foot move forward on the same step.

Contra (Contrary) Body Movement: Contrary Body Movement (CBM) is the action

of turning the opposite hip and shoulder towards the direction of the moving leg, and is used to begin most turning movements.

Contra (Contrary) Body Movement Position: Contrary Body Movement Position

(CBMP) is the position attained by placing the feet in the same track. It requires a shoulder lead or CBM to attain the proper body alignment. Steps taken in Banjo (BJO) position should end in CBMP.

Sway: Argentine Tango employs very little body sway. Some picture figures which may

employ a slight amount of body sway.


AT - Intro - 4


AT - Intro - 5

ALPHABETICAL LISTING OF TERMS WITH PRONUNCIATIONS

Atras (äträs) Medio (mädêô)

Cobra (kōbrá) Ocho (õchõ)

Corté (kôrtā) Para (párá)

Cruz (krōōz) Parada (párádá)

Cruzada (krōōczádá) Pasada (pásádá)

Doble (dôblā) Puerta (pwârtá)

Estorbar (estôbär) Sentada (sentádá)

Gancho (gonchō) Serpiente (sûrpêentā)

Gaucho (gouchō) Vid (vêd)

Lanzadera (länzäderá)


AT - Intro - 6

Argentine Tango Table of Contents

AT – TOC - 1

S#8 2004

Introduction ……………………………………………… AT-Int-1

Advanced Corté ……………………………………………… AT-20

Argentine Walks ……………………………………………… AT-01

American Basic ……………………………………………… AT-02

Backing Basic ……………………………………………… AT-03

Back Corté ……………………………………………… AT-04

Back Tango Close ……………………………………………… AT-05

Back Tango Draw ……………………………………………… AT-06

Basic ……………………………………………… AT-07

Crisscross ……………………………………………… AT-08

Curving Progressive Tango Rocks ……………………………………………… AT-09

Doblé Cruzada ……………………………………………… AT-10

Estorbar ……………………………………………… AT-11

Gaucho ……………………………………………… AT-12

Medio Corté ……………………………………………… AT-13

Ocho ……………………………………………… AT-14

Ocho Para Atras ……………………………………………… AT-15

Pasada ……………………………………………… AT-16

Progressive Tango Rocks ……………………………………………… AT-17

Side Corté ……………………………………………… AT-18

Tango Draw ……………………………………………… AT-19

Argentine Tango Table of Contents

AT – TOC - 2

S#8 2004

Argentine Tango

AT – Fig 20 - 57 S#6 2002

Advanced Corté 1 measure - QQS Level of Difficulty 4

MAN CP LOD – Bk & sd L lwr into knee, draw R to L, thru R in SCP, -;

LADY CP RLOD – Fwd R lwr into knee, draw L to R, thru L in SCP, -;

MAN

Step # Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

Q

LOD

bk & sd L lwr into knee

upper body

sltly LF

BF

2

Q

COH

draw R to L trng to SCP

3

S

COH

step thru R

BF

LADY

Step # Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction


Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

Q

RLOD

fwd R lwr into knee

upper body

sltly LF HB

2

Q

COH

draw L to R trng to SCP

3

S

COH

step thru L

BF

NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION

MAN Start in Closed Position facing LOD. [Step 1.] Step back & side on the left foot, ball/flat lowering into left knee and making a slight left face upper body turn. [Step 2.] Draw right foot to left foot no weight change and prepare to step to COH. [Step 3.] Step thru with right foot to SCP.

LADY Start in Closed Position facing RLOD. [Step 1.] Step forward on the right foot, heel/ball lowering into right knee and making slight left face upper body turn. [Step 2.] Draw left foot

Advanced Corté (continued) Argentine Tango

AT – Fig 20 - 58 S#6 2002

to right foot no weight change turning the upper body RF to SCP. [Step 3.] Step thru with left foot to SCP.

GENERAL NOTES

This figure may turn LF up to one half turn (i.e. Starting position LOD ending position RLOD). This figure may end in SCP or CP. To take figure to CP you will lead Lady thru in SCP and turn her to CP after step is taken.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 2 - 9

American Basic

3 measures - SS SS SS Level of Difficulty 5

MAN Begin CP fc LOD - cl L to R & flick right leg bk parallel to floor & swvl LF to SCP, -, fwd R & swvl to CP, -; sd L, -, fwd R blending to BJO, -; fwd L in BJO, -, cl R to L in BJO, -;

LADY Begin CP fc RLOD - cl R to L & flick left leg bk parallel to floor & swvl RF to SCP, -, fwd L & swvl to CP, -; sd R, -, bk L, -; bk R, -, XLIF of R, -;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

S

LOD

cl L to R & flick R leg bk &

parallel to floor

1/8 LF

B

swvl on L

2

S

DLC

fwd R

1/8 RF

HB

swvl on R

SCP

3

S

LOD

sd L

IE of WF

CP

4

S

LOD

fwd R

1/8 RF

HB

BJO

5

S

DLW

fwd L

HB

6

S

DLW

cl R to L

WF

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

S

RLOD

cl R to L & flick L leg bk & parallel to

floor

1/8 RF

B

swvl on R

2

S

DRC

fwd L

1/8 LF

HB

swvl on L

SCP

3

S

RLOD

sd R

IE of WF

CP

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 2 - 10

4

S

RLOD

bk L

1/8 RF

BH

BJO

5

S

DRC

bk R

BH

6 S DRC XLIF of R tightly

drag OE of T

end with L leg tightly crossed in front of R leg above knee


MAN

Start in Closed Position facing LOD with the left foot free. [Step 1.] Close the left foot

to the right. Flick the right leg back and parallel to floor. Swivel 1/8 left face on the ball

of the left foot to end in Semi-Closed Position facing DLC. [Step 2.] Step forward on

the right foot, DLC, still in semi-closed position. Swivel 1/8 on the ball of the right foot

turning to face LOD In Closed Position. [Step 3.] Step side on the left foot using the

inside edge and roll onto the flat of the foot. [Step 4.] Step forward on the right foot,

heel leading. Blend to Banjo at the end of the step by making a 1/8 right face turn.

[Step 5.] Step forward on the left foot, heel leading. Remain in Banjo and turn to face

DLW. [Step 6.] Close the right foot to the left, with the flat of the foot, remaining in

Banjo and end facing DLW.

LADY

Start in Closed Position facing RLOD with the right foot free. [Step 1.] Close the

right foot to the left. Flick the left leg back parallel to the floor. Swivel 1/8 right face on

the ball of the right foot to end in Semi-Closed Position facing COH. [Step 2.] Step

forward on the left foot, heel leading, in Semi-Closed Position. Swivel 1/8 left face on

the ball of the left foot to Closed Position facing DRC. [Step 3.] Step side on the right

foot, inside edge, then roll onto the flat of the foot. [Step 4.] Step back on the left foot,

ball, blending to Banjo by turning 1/8 right face at the end of the step. [Step 5.] Step

back on the right foot, on the ball, remaining in Banjo and turning to face DRC. [Step

6.] Draw the outside edge of the left toe tightly across in front of the right foot, taking

weight. Remain in Banjo position and end facing DRC.

GENERAL NOTES

The American Basic may be used by itself or before the following figures:

Ocho {cued: AMERICAN BASIC WITH OCHO}

Doble Cruzadá {cued: AMERICAN BASIC DOBLE CRUZADA}

Estorbar {cued: AMERICAN BASIC WITH ESTORBAR}

Doble Ocho {cued: AMERICAN BASIC WITH DOBLE OCHO}

Pasada {cued: AMERICAN BASIC WITH PASADA}

Ocho Para Atras {cued: AMERICAN BASIC OCHO PARA ATRAS}.

When the American Basic follows one of the above figures, the lady will need to modify

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 2 - 11

American Basic (continued)

her the timing to dance the figure SS SS SQQ. She will also need to change Step #6

from a slow step to a quick step and add a Step #7. The changed steps are as follows:

[Step 6] Q Draw the outside edge of the left toe tightly across in front of

the right foot taking weight. Remain in banjo position and end

facing DRC.

[Step 7] Q Flick right leg from the knee to the foot back and up parallel to

the ground.

When this figure is not followed by one of the figures above it is generally followed by a

Tango Draw.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 2 - 12

American Basic (continued)

Argentine Tango

AT – Fig 1 - 7

Argentine Walks 3 measures - SS QQS SQQ Level of Difficulty 4

MAN Begin in CP LOD - fwd L, -, fwd R, -; fwd L, sd & fwd R, fwd L, -; fwd R, -, fwd L, sd & fwd R;

LADY Begin in CP backing LOD - bk R, -, bk L, -; bk R, sd & bk L, bk R, -; bk L, -, bk R, sd & bk L;

MAN Step # Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction


Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

LOD

fwd L

HB

2

S

LOD

fwd R

HB

3

Q

LOD

fwd L

HB

CBMP

4

Q

LOD

sd & fwd R

IE of B

push off R

5

S

LOD

fwd L

HB

6

S

LOD

fwd R

HB

7

Q

LOD

fwd L

HB

CBMP

8

Q

LOD

sd & fwd R

IE of B

push off R

LADY Step # Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction


Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

LOD

bk R

BH

2

S

LOD

bk L

BH

3

Q

LOD

bk R

BH

CBMP

4

Q

LOD

sd & bk L

IE of B

push off L

5

S

LOD

bk R

BH

6

S

LOD

bk L

BH

7

Q

LOD

bk R

BH

CBMP

8

Q

LOD

sd & bk L

IE of B

push off L

Argentine Walks (continued) Argentine Tango

AT – Fig 1 - 8


MAN Start in Closed Position facing LOD. [Step 1.] Step forward on the left foot, heel ball. [Step 2.] Step forward on the right foot, heel ball. [Step 3.] Step forward on the left foot, heel ball. [Step 4.] Using the inside edge of the right ball, step side and forward. [Step 5.] Step forward on the left foot, heel ball. [Step 6.] Step forward on the right foot, heel ball. [Step 7.] Step forward on the left foot, heel ball. [Step 8.] Using the inside edge of the right ball, step side and forward.

LADY Start in Closed Position facing RLOD. [Step 1.] Reach back on the ball of the right foot, rolling onto the heel. [Step 2.] Reach back on the ball of the left foot, rolling onto the heel. [Step 3.] Reach back on the ball of the right foot, rolling onto the heel. [Step 4.] Using the inside edge of the left ball, step side and back. [Step 5.] Reach back on the ball of the right foot, rolling onto the heel. [Step 6.] Reach back on the ball of the left foot, rolling onto the heel. [Step 7.] Reach back on the ball of the right foot, rolling onto the heel. [Step 8.] Using the inside edge of the left ball, step side and back.

GENERAL NOTES Following this figure with a Tango Draw is a normal exit.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 4 - 15

Back Corte 1/2 measure - S Level of Difficulty 3

MAN Begin CP fcg LOD - bk L lower into knee, -,

LADY Begin CP fcg RLOD - fwd R lower into knee, -,

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of

Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

LOD

bk L lwr into knee

upper body sltly LF

BF

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of

Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

RLOD

fwd R lwr into knee

upper body sltly LF

BF


MAN Start in closed position facing LOD. [Step 1.] Step back on the left foot, ball/flat. Lower slightly into the knee. Make a slight left face upper body turn.

LADY Start in closed position facing RLOD. [Step 1.] Step forward on the right foot, ball/flat. Lower slightly into the knee. Make a slight left face upper body turn.

GENERAL NOTES This figure may be followed by a slow Recover step (i.e. the man recovers forward on the heel of the right foot. The woman recovers back on the ball of the left foot.)

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 4 - 16

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 5 - 17

Back Tango Close 1 measure - QQS Level of Difficulty 3

MAN Begin CP fcg LOD - bk R, sd L, draw R to L & take wt, -;

LADY Begin CP fcg RLOD - fwd L, sd R, draw L to R & take wt, -;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 Q

LOD

bk R

BF

2

Q

LOD

sd L

IE of WF, F

3

S

LOD

draw R to L &

take wt

draw IE of T, F

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 Q

RLOD

fwd L

HF

2

Q

RLOD

sd R

IE of WF, F

3

S

RLOD

draw L to R &

take wt

draw IE of T, F


MAN

Start in closed position facing LOD. [Step 1.] Step back on the ball of the right foot,

rolling onto the flat of the foot. [Step 2.] Step side on the inside edge of the left foot,

rolling onto the flat of the foot. [Step 3.] Draw the inside edge of the right toe to the

left foot and take weight, whole foot

LADY

Start in closed position facing RLOD. [Step 1.] Step forward on the left foot,

heel/flat. [Step 2.] Step side on the inside edge of the right foot, rolling onto the flat

of the foot. [Step 3.] Draw the inside edge of the left toe to the right foot and take

weight, whole foot.

Back Tango Close (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 5 - 18

GENERAL NOTES

This figure may turn up to 1/4 left face on the first step.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 6 - 19

Back Tango Draw 1 measure - QQS Level of Difficulty 3

MAN Begin CP fcg LOD - bk L, sd R, draw L to R no wt, -;

LADY Begin CP fcg RLOD - fwd R, sd L, draw R to L no wt, -;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

Q

LOD

bk L

BF

2

Q

LOD

sd R

IE of WF, F

3

S

LOD

draw L to R

no wt

drag IE of T

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

Q

RLOD

fwd R

HF

2

Q

RLOD

sd L

IE of WF, F

3

S

RLOD

draw R to L

no wt

drag IE of T


MAN

Start in closed position facing LOD. [Step 1.] Step back on the ball of the left foot,

rolling onto the flat of the foot. [Step 2.] Step side on the inside edge of the right

foot, rolling onto the flat of the foot. [Step 3.] Draw the inside edge of the left toe

to the right foot. Do not take weight.

LADY

Start in closed position facing RLOD. [Step 1.] Step forward on the right foot,

heel/flat. [Step 2.] Step side on the inside edge of the left foot, rolling onto the flat

of the foot. [Step 3.] Draw the inside edge of the right toe to the left foot. Do not

take weight.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 6 - 20

Back Tango Draw (continued)

GENERAL NOTES

You can turn this figure up to 1/4 left face, on the first step.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 3 - 13

Backing Basic

3 measures - SS SS SS Level of Difficulty 5 MAN Begin in CP fc LOD - bk L, -, bk R, -; sd L, -, fwd R blend to BJO, -; fwd L in BJO, -, cl R to L in BJO, -; LADY Begin in CP fc RLOD - fwd R, -, fwd L, -; sd R, -, bk L, -; bk R, -, XLIF of R, -;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

LOD

bk L

BH

2

S

LOD

bk R

BF

3

S

LOD

sd L

1/8 RF

IE of WF

4

S

DLW

fwd R LOD

HB

BJO

5

S

DLW

fwd L

HB

6

S

DLW

cl R to L

WF

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing


Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

RLOD

fwd R

HB

2

S

RLOD

fwd L

HB

3

S

RLOD

sd R

1/8 RF

IE of WF

4

S

DRC

bk L

BH

BJO

5

S

DRC

bk R

BH

6

S

DRC

XLIF of R tightly

drag OE of T

end with L leg tightly crossed in front of R leg above knee

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 3 - 14

Backing Basic (continued)


MAN Start in closed position facing LOD. [Step 1.] Step back on the ball of the left foot, rolling onto the heel. [Step 2.] Step back on the ball of the right foot, rolling onto the flat of the foot. [Step 3.] Using the inside edge of the left foot, step side, turning 1/8 right face to banjo. Roll onto the flat of the foot. [Step 4.] Step forward on the right foot, heel/ball. [Step 5.] Step forward on the left foot, heel/ball. Remain in banjo and turn to face DLW. [Step 6.] Close the right foot to the left with a flat foot. Remain in banjo position and end facing DLW.

LADY Start in closed position facing RLOD. [Step 1.] Step forward on the right foot, heel/ball. [Step 2.] Step forward on the left foot, heel/flat. [Step 3.] Using the inside edge of the right foot, step side. Turn 1/8 right face banjo. Roll onto the flat of the foot. [Step 4.] Step back on the left foot, ball/heel. [Step 5.] Step back on the right foot, ball/heel. Remain in banjo and turn to face DRC. [Step 6.] Draw the outside edge of the left toe tightly across in front of the right foot and take weight. Remain in banjo position and end facing DRC.

GENERAL NOTES The Backing Basic may be used by itself or before the following figures:

Ocho {cued: BACKING BASIC WITH OCHO} Doble Cruzada {cued: BACKING BASIC DOBLE CRUZADA} Estorbar {cued: BACKING BASIC WITH ESTORBAR} Doble Ocho {cued: BACKING BASIC WITH DOBLE OCHO} Pasada {cued: BACKING BASIC WITH PASADA} Ocho Para Atras {cued: BACKING BASIC OCHO PARA ATRAS}.

When the Backing Basic is preceded by one of the above figures, the lady will need to modify the timing to SS SS SQQ. She will also need to change Step #6 from a slow step to a quick step and add a Step #7, as follows:

[Step 6] Q Draw the outside edge of the left toe tightly across in front of the right foot and take weight. Remain in banjo position and end facing DRC.

[Step 7] Q Flick the right leg, from the knee to the foot, back and up parallel to the floor.

When not followed by one of the figures above, this figure is generally followed by a Tango Draw.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 7 - 21

Basic 3 measures - SS SS SS Level of Difficulty 4

MAN

Begin CP fcg LOD - point L sd no wt, -, draw L to R no wt, -; sd L, -, fwd R

blending to BJO, -; fwd L in BJO, -, cl R to L in BJO, -;

LADY

Begin CP fcg RLOD - point R sd no wt, -, draw R to L no wt, -; sd R, -, bk L, -;

bk R, -, XLIF of R, -;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

LOD

point L sd no wt

pt T

2

S

LOD

draw L to R

no wt

draw IE of T

L knee veered inward

3

S

LOD

sd L

IE of WF, F

4

S

LOD

fwd R LOD

1/8 RF

HB

blend to BJO

5

S

DLW

fwd L LOD

HF

BJO

6

S

DLW

cl R to L

F

BJO

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

RLOD

point R sd no wt

point T

2

S

RLOD

draw R to L

no wt

draw IE of T

R knee veered inward

3

S

RLOD

sd R

IE of WF, F

4

S

RLOD

bk L

1/8 RF

BH

blend to BJO

Basic (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 7 - 22

5

S

DRC

bk R

BF

BJO

6

S

DRC

XLIF of R tightly

draw OE of T, F

end with L leg tightly crossed in front of R leg above knee in BJO


MAN

Start in closed position facing LOD. [Step 1.] Point the toe of the left foot to the

side. Do not take weight. [Step 2.] Draw the inside edge of the left toe toward

the right foot. Do not take weight. [Step 3.] Step side on the left foot, inside

edge/whole foot. [Step 4.] Step forward on the right foot, heel/ball. Blend to

banjo at the end of the step, turning the body 1/8 right face. [Step 5.] Step

forward on the left foot, heel/ball. Remain in banjo. [Step 6.] Close the right foot

to the left with a flat foot. Remain in banjo and end facing DLW.

LADY

Start in closed position facing RLOD. [Step 1.] Point the toe of the right foot side.

Do not take weight. [Step 2.] Draw the inside edge of the right toe toward the

left foot. Do not take weight. [Step 3.] Step side on the right foot, inside

edge/whole foot. [Step 4.] Step back on the left foot, ball/heel. Blend to banjo at

the end of the step, turning the body 1/8 right face. [Step 5.] Step back on the

right foot, ball/flat. Remain in banjo. [Step 6.] Draw the outside edge of the left

toe tightly across in front of the right foot and take weight. Remain in banjo and end

facing DRC.

GENERAL NOTES

The Basic may be used by itself or before the following figures:

Ocho {cued: BASIC WITH OCHO}

Doble Cruzada {cued: BASIC DOBLE CRUZADA}

Estorbar {cued: BASIC WITH ESTORBAR}

Doble Ocho {cued: BASIC WITH DOBLE OCHO}

Pasada {cued: BASIC WITH PASADA}

Ocho Para Atras {cued: BASIC OCHO PARA ATRAS}.

When preceding the basic by one of the figures, above the lady will need to modify

the timing of the basic to SS SS SQQ. She will also need to change Step #6 from a

slow step to a quick step and add Step #7, as follows:


the right foot and take weight. Remain in banjo and end

facing DRC.


AT - Fig 7 - 23

[Step 7] Q Flick right leg from the knee to the foot back and up parallel

to the floor.

When not following this figure by one of the figures above, you generally use a Tango

Draw.


AT - Fig 7 - 24

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 8 - 25

Crisscross 2 measures - SS QQS Level of Difficulty 4

MAN Begin loose CP fcg the wall - sd L, -, XR strongly IF of L trn to loose SCP, -; XL strongly IF of R trn to RSCP, sd R trn to loose CP, draw L to R no wt, -;

LADY Begin loose CP fcg COH - sd R, -, XL strongly IF of R trn to loose SCP, -; XR strongly IF of L trn to RSCP, sd L trn to loose CP, draw R to L no wt, -;

MAN Step # Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn Footwork

Action Used Lead/Technique

1

S

wall

sd L LOD

1/8 LF

IE of WF,

F

loose CP

2

S

DLW

X RIFL LOD

1/4 RF

B

loose SCP

3

Q

DRW

X LIFR RLOD

1/8 LF

B

loose RSCP

4

Q

wall

sd R RLOD

IE of WF,

F

loose CP

5

S

wall

draw L to R no wt

draw IE of T

LADY Step # Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction


Action Used Lead/Technique

1

S

COH

sd R LOD

1/8 RF

IE of WF,

F

loose CP

2

S

DLC

X LIFR LOD

1/4 LF

B

loose SCP

3

Q

DRC

X RIFL RLOD

1/8 RF

B

loose RSCP

4

Q

COH

sd L RLOD

IE of WF,

F

loose CP

5

S

COH

draw R to L no wt

draw IE of T

Crisscross (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 8 - 26


MAN Start in loose closed position facing the wall. [Step 1.] Step side on the left foot, inside edge/whole foot. Turn the body 1/8 left face into loose semi-closed position facing DLW. [Step 2.] Cross the right foot over the left toward LOD, ball. Turn body 1/4 right face to loose reverse semi-closed position facing DRW. [Step 3.] Cross the left foot over the right toward RLOD, ball. Turn body 1/8 left face to loose closed position facing the wall. [Step 4.] Step side on the right foot, inside edge/whole foot. Remain in loose closed position facing the wall. [Step 5.] Draw the inside edge of the left toe toward the right foot. End in loose closed position facing the wall.

LADY Start in loose closed position facing COH. [Step 1.] Step side on the right foot, inside edge/whole foot. Turn body 1/8 right face to loose semi-closed position facing DLC. [Step 2.] Cross the left foot over the right foot toward LOD, ball. Turn body 1/4 left face to loose reverse semi-closed position facing DRW. [Step 3.] Cross the right foot over the left foot toward RLOD, ball. Turn body 1/8 right face to loose closed position facing COH. [Step 4.] Step side on the left foot, inside edge/whole foot. Remain in loose closed position facing COH. [Step 5.] Draw the inside edge of the right toe toward the left foot. End in loose closed position facing COH.

GENERAL NOTES

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 9 - 27

Curving Progressive Tango Rocks 3 measures - SS QQS QQS Level of Difficulty 5

MAN Begin CP fcg LOD - fwd L, -, fwd R, -; rk fwd L, rec R, fwd L, -; rk fwd R, rec L, fwd R gradually curve 3/4 LF throughout figure, -;

LADY Begin CP fcg RLOD - bk R, -, bk L, -; bk R, rec L, bk R, -; bk L, rec R, bk L gradually curve 3/4 RF throughout figure, -;

MAN Step

# Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

LOD

fwd L

1/8 LF

HB

2

S

DLC

fwd R

1/8 LF

HB

3

Q

COH

rk fwd L

1/8 LF

B

rocking action

4

Q

DRC

rec R

B

rocking action

5

S

DRC

fwd L

1/8 LF

B

6

Q

RLOD

rk fwd R

1/8 LF

B

rocking action

7

Q

DRW

rec L

B

rocking action

8

S

DRW

fwd R

1/8 LF

BF

LADY Step

# Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

RLOD

bk R

1/8 LF

BH

2

S

DRW

bk L

1/8 LF

BH

3

Q

WALL

bk R

1/8 LF

B

rocking action

4

Q

DLW

rec L

B

rocking action

5

S

DLW

bk R

1/8 LF

B

6

Q

LOD

bk L

1/8 LF

B

rocking action

7

Q

DLC

rec R

B

rocking action

8

S

DLC

bk L

1/8 LF

BF

Curving Tango Rocks (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 9 - 28


MAN Start in Closed Position facing LOD. [Step 1.] Step forward on the left foot, heel/ball. Curve 1/8 left face to DLC. [Step 2.] Step forward on the right foot, heel/ball. Curve 1/8 left face to COH. [Step 3.] Rock forward on the left foot, ball. Curve 1/8 left face to DRC. [Step 4.] Recover back on the ball of the right foot. [Step 5.] Step forward on the left foot, ball. Curve 1/8 left face to RLOD. [Step 6.] Rock forward on the right foot, ball. Curve 1/8 left face to DRW. [Step 7.] Recover back on the left foot, ball. [Step 8.] Step forward on the right foot, ball/flat. Curve 1/8 left face to the wall.

LADY Start in Closed Position facing RLOD. [Step 1.] Step back on the right foot, ball/heel. Curve 1/8 left face to DRW. [Step 2.] Step back on the left foot, ball/heel. Curve 1/8 left face to the wall. [Step 3.] Step back on the right foot, ball. Curve 1/8 left face to DLW. The man will check his forward movement. [Step 4.] Recover forward on the ball of the left foot. [Step 5.] Step back on the right foot, ball. Curve 1/8 left face to LOD. [Step 6.] Step back on the ball of the left foot. Curve 1/8 left face to DLC. The man will check his forward movement. [Step 7.] Recover forward on the ball of the right foot. [Step 8.] Step back on the left foot, ball/flat. Curve 1/8 left face to COH.

GENERAL NOTES Adding a Tango Draw, turning 1/4 left face, to this figure completing a full turn, is a normal exit.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 10 - 29

Doble Cruzadá (passing steps going in two directions) Pronunciation: (dÇbl~ kroozadá) 1 measure - SS (QQQQ) Level of Difficulty 6

MAN BJO DLW - fan L behind R, -, XRIBL CP, -;

LADY BJO DRC - fwd R loose BJO, fan L leg CW bk & parallel to floor trng 1/2 RF to loose SCP, fwd L, fan R leg CCW bk & parallel to floor trng 1/2 LF into CP;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction

Body Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

DLW

fan L

behind R

trn upper body 1/8 RF

swvl on balls of feet

apply pressure to lady's left shoulder w/right finger tips

2

S

DLW

XRIBL

trn upper body 1/8 RF


apply pressure to lady's left shoulder w/right palm trng her to CP

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction

Body Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 Q

DRC

fwd R in BJO

nil

B

loose BJO

2

Q

DRC

fan L leg CW

1/2 RF

L off floor, R on ball

swvl on

ball of R

L leg bk and parallel to floor, end in loose SCP

3

Q

DRW

fwd L

B

loose SCP

4

Q

DRW

fan R leg CCW

1/2 LF

R off floor, L on ball

swvl on

ball of L

R leg bk and parallel to floor, end in CP


MAN Start in Banjo Position, facing DLW. [Step 1.] Fan the left foot tightly behind the right. Swivel on the balls of the feet. Apply pressure to the lady's left shoulder blade with the right hand, using the tips of the fingers to guide the lady in her swiveling action. [Step 2.] Cross the right foot tightly in back of the left. Continue to assist the lady's swiveling action

Doble Cruzadá (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 10 - 30

by applying pressure to her left shoulder blade with the palm of the right hand. The lady should end in Closed Position.

LADY Start in Banjo Position, facing DRC. [Step 1.] Step forward, on the right toe, in loose Banjo Position. [Step 2.] Fan the left leg, clockwise, back and with the lower half parallel to the floor. Swivel 1/2 right face, on the toe of the right foot, to end in loose Semi-Closed Position. [Step 3.] Step forward, on the left toe. [Step 4.] Fan the right leg, counterclockwise, back and with the lower half parallel to the floor. Swivel 1/2 left face, on the toe of the left, foot to end in Closed Position.

GENERAL NOTES Generally you precede the Doble Cruzadá with one of the three basics (basic, American Basic or Backing Basic). When preceded by one of the basics, the lady will need to modify the timing of the basic to SS SS SQQ. She will also need to change Step six from a slow to a quick step and add a step seven, as follows:

[Step 6] Q Draw the outside edge of the left toe to cross tightly in front of the right foot and take weight. Remain in Banjo Position and end facing DRC.

[Step 7] Q Flick the right leg, from the knee to the foot, back and up parallel

to the floor. You may follow the Doble Cruzadá with a Tango Draw.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 11 - 31

Estorbar (also called Cruzadá Doble Estorbar - interfere w/passing steps) Pronunciation: (estÇbär) 1 measure - QQ&S (QQQQ) Level of Difficulty 7

MAN

BJO DLW - fan L behind the R, bring R next to lady's R forcing lady to fan L up & over

man's R, -/rec fwd on R, -;

LADY

BJO DRC - fwd R in loose BJO, fan L leg CW bk & parallel to floor trng 1/2 RF to loose

SCP, fwd L stepping over man's R leg in loose SCP, fan R leg CCW bk & parallel to floor

trng 1/2 LF into CP;

MAN

Step #

Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction

Body Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 Q

DLW

fan L

behind R

trn upper body RF 1/8

swvl on ball of L

apply pressure to lady's L shoulder w/R finger tips to help her swivel

2

Q

DLW

place R next to lady's R, no wt

turn up body LF 1/8

force lady to fan L over man's R

apply pressure to lady's L shoulder w/R palm

3

&

DLW

hold

4

S

DLW

rec fwd R

assist lady's turn to CP

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction Body Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 Q

DRC

fwd R in BJO

B

loose BJO

2

Q

DRC

fan L leg

CW 1/4 RF

swvl on ball of R

lower half of leg parallel to floor

3

Q

DLW

fwd L

stepping over man's

R leg

B

loose SCP

4

Q

DLW

fan R leg CCW

5/8 LF

swvl on ball of L

lower half of leg parallel to floor, end in CP

Estorbar (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 11 - 32


MAN

Start in Banjo Position, facing DLW. [Step 1.] Fan the left foot, tightly behind the

right. Swiveling on the balls of the feet, apply pressure to the lady's left shoulder blade

with the right fingertips to assist her swiveling action. [Step 2.] Bring the toe of the

right foot next to the lady's supporting right foot. This action should force her left foot

to fan up and over your right foot. Continue to assist the lady's swiveling with the

right hand. [Step 3.] Hold while the lady steps over your right foot. [Step 4.]

Recover onto your right foot. Apply pressure to the lady's shoulder blade with the

palm of your right hand to swivel her into Closed Position.

LADY

Start in Banjo Position, facing DRC. [Step 1.] Step forward on the ball of the right

foot into loose banjo position. [Step 2.] Swiveling on the ball of the right foot, fan

the left leg clockwise with the lower leg parallel to the floor as you turn 1/4 right face.

End in loose Semi-Closed Position. [Step 3.] Step forward on the ball of the left

foot by fanning the leg over the man's right leg. Remain in loose Semi-Closed Position.

[Step 4.] Swiveling on the ball of the left foot, fan the right leg counterclockwise

back with the lower leg parallel to the floor. Turn 5/8 left face to end in Closed

Position.

GENERAL NOTES

Generally we precede the Estorbar with on of the three basics (Basic, American Basic

or Backing Basic). When preceded by one of the basics, the lady will need to modify

the timing of the basic to SS SS SQQ. She will also need to change step six from a

slow step to a quick step and add a step seven, as follows:


the right foot and take weight. Remain in Banjo Position and

end facing DRC.

[Step Y] Q Flick the right leg up and back. Make the lower leg, knee to

the foot, parallel to the floor.

You may follow the Estorbar with a Tango Draw.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 12 - 35

Gaucho (also called, Rock Turn or Habanerá Rocks)

Pronunciation: (gouchÇ) 1 measure - QQQQ Level of Difficulty 3 MAN CP LOD - rk fwd L trn 1/8 LF, rec bk R trn 1/8 LF, rk fwd L trn 1/8 LF, rec bk R trn 1/8 LF; LADY CP RLOD - bk R trn 1/8 LF, rec rk fwd L trn 1/8 LF, bk R trn 1/8 LF, rec rk fwd R trn 1/8 LF;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 Q

LOD

rk fwd L

1/8 LF

B

2

Q

DLC

rec bk onto

R 1/8 LF

B

3

Q

COH

rk fwd L

1/8 LF

B

4

Q

DRC

rec bk onto

R 1/8 LF

B

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 Q

RLOD

bk R

1/8 LF

B

2

Q

DRW

rec rk fwd

L 1/8 LF

B

3

Q

wall

bk R

1/8 LF

B

4

Q

DLW

rec rk fwd

L 1/8 LF

B


MAN Start in Closed Position, facing LOD. [Step 1.] Step forward onto the ball of the left foot. Turn left face, on the ball of the foot, as you prepare for the next step. [Step 2.] Recover back onto the ball of the right foot. Turn left face, on the ball of the foot, as you prepare for the next step. [Step 3.] Step forward onto the ball of the left foot. Turn left face, on the ball of the foot, as you prepare for the next step. [Step 4.] Recover back onto the ball of the right foot. Turn left face, on the ball of the foot, as you prepare for the next step.

LADY Start in Closed Position, facing RLOD. [Step 1.] Step back onto the ball of the right foot. Turn left face, on the ball of the foot, as you prepare for the next step. [Step 2.] Recover forward onto the ball of the left foot. Turn left face, on the ball of the foot, as you prepare for

Gaucho (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 12 - 36

the next step. [Step 3.] Step back onto the ball of the right foot. Turn left face, on the ball of the foot, as you prepare for the next step. [Step 4.] Recover forward onto the ball of the left foot. Turn left face, on the ball of the foot, as you prepare for the next step.

GENERAL NOTES You may begin this figure from Banjo and blend to Closed Position on step one or may end in Banjo on step four.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 13 - 37

Medio Corté

pronunciation: (m~d‘Ç kôrt~) 3 measures - QQS SQQ SS Level of Difficulty 5

MAN Begin CP fcg LOD - fwd L, rec R, bk L lwr into knee, -; Rec R, -, rk fwd L, rec R; bk L lwr into knee, -, rec R, -;

LADY Begin CP fcg RLOD - bk R, rec L, fwd R lwr into knee, -; Rec L, -, rk bk R, rec L; fwd R lwr into knee, -, rec R, -;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 Q

LOD

fwd L

B

2

Q

LOD

rec R

B

3

S

LOD

bk L

BF

lower into knee

4

S

LOD

rec R

BF

5

Q

LOD

rk fwd L

B

6

Q

LOD

rec R

BF

7

S

LOD

bk L

BF

lower into knee

8

S

LOD

rec R

BF

use a rocking type action the right foot

remains in place through-out the figure

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Footwork

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 Q

RLOD

bk R

B

2

Q

RLOD

rec L

HF

3

S

RLOD

fwd R

BF

lower into knee

4

S

RLOD

rec L

BF

5

Q

RLOD

rk bk R

B

6

Q

RLOD

rec L

HF

7

S

RLOD

fwd R

HF

lower into knee

8

S

RLOD

rec L

BF

use a rocking type action the left foot

remains in place through-

out figure

Medio Corté (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 13 - 38


MAN Start in Closed Position facing LOD. [Step 1.] Step forward on the left foot, ball. Check the forward movement. [Step 2.] Recover back on the right foot, ball, in a rocking type action. [Step 3.] Step back on the left foot, ball/flat and lower slightly into the knee, like a Corté. [Step 4.] Recover forward on the right foot, ball/flat. [Step 5.] Rock forward onto the ball of the left foot. [Step 6.] Recover back onto the right foot, ball/flat. [Step 7.] Step back on the ball of the left foot lowering into the knee like a Corté. [Step 8.] Recover forward on the right foot, ball/flat, with a rocking type action. LADY Start in Closed Position facing RLOD. [Step 1.] Step back on the right foot, ball. [Step 2.] Recover forward on the left foot, heel/flat. [Step 3.] Step forward on the right foot, ball/flat, lowering into the knee like a Corté. [Step 4.] Recover back on the left foot, ball/flat, with a rocking type action. [Step 5.] Rock back on the ball of the right foot. [Step 6.] Recover forward on the left foot, heel/flat, with a rocking type action. [Step 7.] Step forward on the right foot, heel/flat, lowering into the knee like a Corté. [Step 8.] Recover back onto the left foot, ball/flat, with a rocking type action.

GENERAL NOTES This figure may also turn either 1/4 or 1/2 left face during the rocking actions. Following this figure with a Tango Draw is a normal exit.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 14 - 39

Ocho (the "Eight", also called the Swirl) pronunciation: (ÇchÇ) 1 measure - SS (lady - QQQQ) Level of Difficulty 5

MAN Begin in BJO feet together - assist lady's swvl action no wt chg, -, hold no wt chg & trn lady to CP at end of measure, -;

LADY Begin in BJO - fwd R to loose BJO, fan L leg CW bk & parallel to floor 1/2 trn RF to loose SCP, fwd L, fan R leg CCW bk & parallel to floor 1/2 trn LF trng to CP;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

DLW

no wt chg

upper body 1/8 RF


apply pressure to lady's left shoulder with finger tips of right hand

2

S

DLW

no wt chg

upper body 1/8 LF


apply pressure to lady's left shoulder with palm of right hand and end in CP

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 Q

DRC

fwd R

B

loose BJO

2

Q

DRC

fan L leg CW

1/2 RF

ball of R

swvl on

ball of R

L leg, knee to toe, parallel to floor

3

Q

DRW

fwd L

B

loose SCP

4

Q

DRW

fan R leg

ccw 1/2 LF

ball of L

swvl on

ball of L

R leg, knee to toe, parallel to floor end in CP


MAN Start in Banjo Position facing DLW. [Step 1.] With feet together assist the lady's swiveling action. Swivel on balls of both feet, but do not change weight. Apply pressure to lady's left shoulder blade with right hand. Use the tips of the fingers to guide the lady in her swiveling action. [Step 2.] Keep feet together continuing to assist lady's swiveling action. Turn the

Ocho (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 14 - 40

lady to Closed Position facing diagonal line and wall at the end of the step. Apply pressure to lady's left shoulder blade with the right hand. Use the palm of the hand to guide the lady in her swiveling to closed dance position.

LADY Start in Banjo Position facing DRC. [Step 1.] Step forward on the ball of the right foot into loose banjo position. [Step 2.] Fan the lower left leg clockwise back and parallel to the floor, 1/2 turn right face to end in loose Semi-Closed Position. [Step 3.] Step forward on the ball of the left foot. In loose Semi-Closed Position. [Step 4.] Fan the lower right leg counterclockwise back and parallel to the floor, 1/2 turn left face. Turn into Closed Position.

GENERAL NOTES Generally, one of the three basics precedes the Ocho (Basic, American Basic or Backing Basic). When preceded by one of these figures, the lady will need to modify the timing to SS SS SQQ. She will also need to change Step #6 from a slow step to a quick step and add a Step #7, as follows:

[Step 6] Q Draw the outside edge toe of the left toe across tightly in front of the right foot and take weight. Remain in Banjo Position and end facing DRC.

[Step 7] Q Flick right leg from the knee to the foot back and up parallel to the

floor. Following the Ocho with a Tango Draw is a normal exit. When dancing the Ocho twice, without other movements in between, we refer to it as the DOBLE OCHO (double eight). The level of difficulty increases to a 6, when dancing the Doble Ocho.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 15 - 43

Ocho Pará Atras (eight in reverse) pronunciation: (ÇchÇ pârá äträs)

2 measures - QQQQ QQQQ Level of Difficulty 8

MAN BJO DLW - XLIBR, fan R CW trng RF 1/2, XRIBL, fan L CCW trng LF 1/2; XLIBR, fan R CW trng RF 1/2, XRIBL, trn 1/2 LF into CP;

LADY BJO DRC - fwd R to loose BJO, fan L leg bk CW into loose SDCAR w/lwr leg parallel to floor trng RF 1/2, fwd L in loose SDCAR, fan R leg bk CCW into loose BJO w/lwr leg parallel to floor trng LF 1/2; fwd R to loose BJO, fan L leg bk CW into loose SDCAR w/lwr leg parallel to floor trng RF 1/2, fwd L in loose SDCAR, fan R leg bk CCW w/lwr leg parallel to floor trng 1/2 LF into CP;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

Q

DLW

XLIBR

B

2

Q

DLW

fan R CW

1/2 RF

swvl on ball of L

apply pressure to lady's left shoulder blade w/right finger tips, end in SDCAR

3

Q

DRC

XRIBL

B

4

Q

DRC

fan L CCW

1/2 LF

swvl on ball of R

apply pressure to lady's left shoulder blade w/right palm, end in BJO

5

Q

DLW

XLIBR

B

6

Q

DLW

fan R CW

1/2 RF

swvl on ball of L

apply pressure to lady's left shoulder blade w/right finger tips, end in SDCAR

7

Q

DRC

XRIBL

B

8

Q

DRC

fan L CCW

1/2 LF

swvl on ball of R

apply pressure to lady's left shoulder blade w/right palm, end in CP

Ocho Pará Atras (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 15 - 44

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Body Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

Q

DRC

fwd R

B

loose BJO

2

Q

DRC

fan L leg CW

1/2 RF

swvl on ball of R

lwr leg parallel to floor, end in loose SDCAR

3

Q

DLW

fwd L

B

loose SDCAR

4

Q

DLW

fan R leg CCW

1/2 LF

swvl on ball of L

lwr leg parallel to floor, end in loose BJO

5

Q

DRC

fwd R

B

loose BJO

6

Q

DRC

fan L leg CW

1/2 RF

swvl on ball of R

lwr leg parallel to floor, end in loose SDCAR

7

Q

DLW

fwd L

B

loose SDCAR

8

Q

DLW

fan R leg CCW

1/2 LF

swvl on ball of R

lwr leg parallel to floor, end in CP


MAN Start in Banjo Position, facing DLW. [Step 1.] Cross the left foot behind the right on the toe. [Step 2.] Turning 1/2 right face on the ball of the left foot, fan the right leg clockwise to end in sidecar, DRC. Assist the lady to swivel right face with the fingertips of your right hand on her left shoulder blade. [Step 3.] Cross the right foot behind the left, on the toe. [Step 4.] Turning 1/2 left face, on the ball of the right foot, fan the left leg CCW to Banjo Position, DLW. Assist the lady to swivel left face with the palm of your right hand on her left shoulder blade. [Step 5.] Cross the left foot behind the right on the toe. [Step 6.] Turning 1/2 right face on the ball of the left foot, fan the right leg clockwise to end in Sidecar, DRC. Assist the lady to swivel right face with the fingertips of your right hand on her left shoulder blade. [Step 7.] Cross the right foot behind the left, on the toe. [Step 8.] Turning 1/2 left face, on the ball of the right foot, fan the left leg CCW to Closed Position, DLW. Assist the lady to swivel left face with the palm of your right hand on her left shoulder blade.

LADY Start in Banjo Position, facing DRC. [Step 1.] Step forward on the ball of the right foot, in loose banjo. [Step 2.] Fan the left leg, clockwise and swivel 1/2 right face into loose Sidecar Position. Keep the lower half of the leg parallel to the floor, while fanning. [Step 3.] Step forward on the ball of the left foot, in loose Sidecar. [Step 4.] Fan the right leg, counterclockwise and swivel 1/2 left face into loose Banjo Position, DRC. Keep the lower half of the leg parallel to the floor, while fanning. [Step 5.] Step forward on the ball of the right foot, in loose Banjo. [Step 6.] Fan the left leg, clockwise and swivel 1/2 right face into loose Sidecar Position. Keep the lower half of the leg parallel to the floor, while fanning. [Step 7.]

Argentine Tango

Step forward on the ball of the left foot, in loose Sidecar. [Step 8.] Fan the right leg, counterclockwise and swivel 1/2 left face into Closed Position, DRC. Keep the lower half of the leg parallel to the floor, while fanning.

GENERAL NOTES

Generally we precede the Ocho Pará Atras with on of the three basics (Basic, American Basic or Backing Basic). When preceded by one of the basics, the lady will need to modify the timing of the basic to SS SS SQQ. She will also need to change step six from a slow step to a quick step and add a step seven, as follows:

[Step 6] Q Draw the outside edge of the left toe tightly across in front of the right foot and take weight. Remain in banjo position and end facing DRC.

[Step 7] Q Flick the right leg up and back. Make the lower leg, knee to the

foot, parallel to the floor. You may follow the Ocho Pará Atras with a Tango Draw.

Ocho Pará Atras (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 15 - 46

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 16 - 47

Pasada "passing" pronunciation: (päsädá) 2 measures - SS SQ& (lady - QQQQ QQQQ) Level of Difficulty 8

MAN Begin in BJO fcg DLW - bk L, -, flex knee & rec fwd R bringing R leg to lady's supporting R foot leading lady's L to fan up and over man's R foot, -; Straighten the knee & move R foot next to lady's supporting L foot forcing lady's R to fan up and over man's R foot, -, flex knee & move R foot next to lady's supporting R foot leading lady's L to fan up and over man's R foot, rec R & pick up W/-;

LADY Begin in BJO fcg DRC - fwd R to loose BJO, fan L leg cw bk & parallel to floor trng 1/2 RF to loose SCP, fwd L stepping over man's R leg in loose SCP, fan R leg ccw bk & parallel to floor trng 1/2 LF to loose BJO; fwd R stepping over man's R leg in loose BJO, fan L leg cw bk & parallel to floor trng 1/2 RF to loose SCP, fwd L stepping over man's R leg in loose SCP, fan R leg ccw bk & parallel to floor trng 1/2 LF to CP;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

S DLW

fan L bhnd

R

rotate upper body 1/8 RF

B

swvl on ball of L

apply pressure to lady's L shoulder with the finger tips of the right hand

2

S

wall

place R next to lady's R

rotate upper body 1/8 LF

T no wt

swvl on ball of L

apply pressure to the lady's L shoulder with the palm of the right hand - force lady's L to fan up & over R

3

S

DLW

place R next to lady's L

rotate upper body 1/8 RF

T no wt

swvl on ball of L

apply pressure to lady's L shoulder with the finger tips of the right hand - force lady's L to fan up & over R

4

Q

wall

place R next to lady's R

rotate upper body 1/8 LF

T no wt

swvl on ball of L

apply pressure to the lady's L shoulder with the palm of the right hand - force lady's L to fan up & over R

5

&

DLW

rec to R bringing lady to CP

F

apply pressure to the lady's L shoulder with the palm of the right hand - end in CP

Pasada (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 16 - 48

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step &

Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1

Q DRC

fwd R

B

loose BJO

2

Q

DRC

fan L leg

cw 1/2 RF

swvl on ball of R

left leg, knee to toe, parallel to floor

3

Q

DLW

fwd L over

man's R leg

B

loose SCP

4

Q

DLW

fan R leg

ccw 1/2 LF

swvl on ball of L

right leg, knee to toe, parallel to floor

5

Q

DRC

fwd R over

man's R leg

B

loose BJO

6

Q

DRC

fan L leg

cw 1/2 RF

swvl on ball of R

left leg, knee to toe, parallel to floor

7

Q

DLW

fwd L over

man's R leg

B

loose SCP

8

Q

DLW

fan R leg

ccw 1/2 LF

swvl on ball of L

left leg, knee to toe, parallel to floor end in CP

NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION MAN Start in Banjo Position facing DLW. [Step 1.] Step back on the toe of the left foot. Assist the lady's swiveling action. Swivel on balls of the feet. Apply pressure to lady's left shoulder blade with your right hand. Use the tips of the fingers to guide her swiveling action. [Step 2.] Flex the knee and bring the toe of your right foot up to lady's supporting right foot. This action should force her left foot to fan up and over your right leg. Continue to assist lady's swiveling action. Apply pressure to her left shoulder blade with your right hand. Use the palm of your hand to guide her in swiveling to loose Banjo Position. [Step 3.] Flex the knee and move the toe of the right foot to the lady's supporting left foot. This action should force her right foot to fan up and over your right leg. Continue to assist lady's swiveling action. Apply pressure to her left shoulder blade with your right hand. Use the finger tips to guide her in swiveling to loose Semi-Closed Position. [Step 4.] Flex the right knee and move the right foot next to lady's supporting right foot. This action should force her left foot to fan up and over your right leg. Continue to assist the lady's swiveling action. Apply pressure to her left shoulder blade with your right hand. Use the palm of the hand to guide her in swiveling. [Step 5.] Turn the lady to Closed Position to end facing DLW. Apply pressure to her left shoulder blade with your right hand. Use the palm of the hand to guide her in swiveling and turning to Closed Position.


AT - Fig 16 - 49

LADY Start in Banjo Position facing DRC. [Step 1.] Step forward on the ball of the right foot, into loose banjo position. [Step 2.] Fan the left leg from the knee to the foot, clockwise, back and parallel to the floor, turning 1/2 right face. End in loose Semi-Closed Position. [Step 3.] Step forward on the ball of the left foot, over the man's right leg. Remain in loose Semi-Closed Position. [Step 4.] Fan the right leg, from the knee to the foot, counterclockwise, back and parallel to the floor, turning 1/2 left face. End in loose Banjo Position. [Step 5.] Step forward on the toe of the right foot, over the man's right leg, ending in a loose Banjo Position. [Step 6.] Fan the left leg, clockwise, back and parallel to the floor, turning 1/2 right face. End in loose Semi-Closed Position. [Step 7.] Step forward on the toe of the left foot. Step over the man's right leg to a loose Semi-Closed Position. [Step 8.] Fan the right leg, counterclockwise, back and parallel to the floor, turning 1/2 left face. End in Closed Position.

GENERAL NOTES Generally one of three basic figures precedes the Pasada. They are the Basic, American Basic or Backing Basic. When preceded by one of these figures, the lady must modify the timing of the that figure to SS SS SQQ. She must also change Step #6 from a slow step to a quick step and add a Step #7, as follows:

[Step 6] Q Draw the outside edge of the left toe tightly across in front of the right foot and take weight. Remain in Banjo Position and end facing DRC.

[Step 7] Q Flick the right leg, from the knee to the foot, back and up, parallel

to the floor. Following the Pasada with a Tango Draw is a normal exit.


AT - Fig 16 - 50

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 17 - 51

Progressive Tango Rocks 3 measures - SS QQS QQS Level of Difficulty 4

MAN Begin CP fcg LOD - fwd L, -, fwd R, -; rk fwd L, rec R, fwd L, -; rk fwd R, rec L, fwd R, -;

LADY Begin CP fcg RLOD - bk R, -, bk L, -; bk R, rec L, bk R, -; bk L, rec R, bk L, -;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

LOD

fwd L

HB

2

S

LOD

fwd R

HB

3

Q

LOD

rk fwd L

B

rocking action

4

Q

LOD

rec R

B

rocking action

5

S

LOD

fwd L

BF

6

Q

LOD

rk fwd R

B

rocking action

7

Q

LOD

rec L

B

rocking action

8

S

LOD

fwd R

BF

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

RLOD

bk R

BH

2

S

RLOD

bk L

BH

3

Q

RLOD

bk R

B

rocking action

4

Q

RLOD

rec L

B

rocking action

5

S

RLOD

bk R

BF

6

Q

RLOD

bk L

B

rocking action

7

Q

RLOD

rec R

B

rocking action

8

S

RLOD

bk L

BF

Progressive Tango Rocks (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 17 - 52


MAN Start in Closed Position facing LOD. [Step 1.] Step forward on the left foot, heel/ball. [Step 2.] Step forward on the right foot, heel/ball. [Step 3.] Rock forward on the ball of the left foot. [Step 4.] Recover back on the ball of the right foot. [Step 5.] Step forward on the left foot, ball/flat. [Step 6.] Rock forward on the ball of the right foot. [Step 7.] Recover back on the ball of the left foot. [Step 8.] Step forward on the right foot, ball/flat.

LADY Start in Closed Position facing RLOD. [Step 1.] Step back on the right foot, ball/heel. [Step 2.] Step back on the left foot, ball/heel. [Step 3.] Step back on the ball of the right foot. The man will check his forward motion. [Step 4.] Recover forward on the ball of the left foot. [Step 5.] Step back on the right foot, ball/flat. [Step 6.] Step back with the ball of the left foot. The man will check his forward motion. [Step 7.] Recover forward on the ball of the right foot. [Step 8.] Step back on the left foot, ball/flat.

GENERAL NOTES Following this figure with a Tango Draw is a normal exit.

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 18 - 53

Side Corté 1/2 measure - S Level of Difficulty 3 MAN Begin CP fcg LOD - sd L lower into knee, -, LADY Begin CP fcg RLOD - sd R lower into knee, -,

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

LOD

sd L

IE of WF, F

lower into knee

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing

Alignment

Step & Direction

Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 S

RLOD

sd R

IE of WF, F

lower into knee


MAN Start in Closed Position facing LOD. [Step 1.] Step side on the left foot, inside edge/whole foot, towards COH, lowering slightly into the knee.

LADY Start in Closed Position facing RLOD. [Step 1.] Step side on the right foot, inside edge/whole foot, towards COH, lowering slightly into the knee.

GENERAL NOTES This figure may be followed by a slow Recover step (i.e., the man recovers side, on the inside edge of the right foot and the woman recovers side, on the inside edge of the left foot). You may look over the lead hands or keep your heads in Closed Position.

Side Corté (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 18 - 54

Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 19 - 55

Tango Draw 1 measure - QQS Level of Difficulty 3

MAN Begin CP fcg LOD - fwd L, sd R, draw L to R no wt, -;

LADY Begin CP fcg RLOD - bk R, sd L, draw R to L no wt, -;

MAN Step #

Timing

Facing


Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 Q

LOD

fwd L

HF

2

Q

LOD

sd R

IE of WF, F

3

S

LOD

draw L to R

no wt

IE of T

LADY Step #

Timing

Facing


Amount of Turn

Foot work

Action Used

Lead/Technique

1 Q

RLOD

bk R

BF

2

Q

RLOD

sd L

IE of WF, F

3

S

RLOD

draw R to L

no wt

IE of T


MAN Start in Closed Position facing LOD. [Step 1.] Step forward on the left foot, heel/flat. [Step 2.] Step side on the right foot, inside edge/flat. [Step 3.] Draw the inside edge of the left toe to the right foot. Do not take weight.

LADY Start in Closed Position facing RLOD. [Step 1.] Step back on the right foot, ball/flat. [Step 2.] Step side on the left foot, inside edge/flat. [Step 3.] Draw the inside edge of the right toe to the left foot. Do not take weight.

GENERAL NOTES This figure may turn up to 1/4 left face on the first step.

Tango Draw (continued) Argentine Tango

AT - Fig 19 - 56

Introduction to Argentine Tango - ICBDAThe International Tango, perfected by the Germans, employs a...

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