Peggy and Mark Albrecht
Vivian Herman
Spring is for lovers. So, it is fitting that the SaddleBrooke Ballroom Dance Club (SBDC) is teaching Argentine tango, the most romantic of dances, in March.
Argentine tango is one of the most fun couples dances you can learn, because it is all about the communication between partners, inspired by the dramatic tango music. It emphasizes a strong connection between the partners who create their own unique dance interpretation, rather than specific patterns or choreography. That’s what makes it look so unique and romantic.
The Argentine tango originated in the late 19th century in the streets of Buenos Aires, Argentina, as immigrants wanted to meet others. It is an improvised dance based on a simple, learnable structure. Traditional tango music includes a bandoneon (small accordion), violins, a bass, and a piano if available. Today, the rich variety of classical and new (nuevo) tango musical styles make it an always new and exciting experience.
Mark and Peggy Albrecht, our instructors, received more than five years of training by professional instructors from Argentina and other Latin American countries as members of Boston’s active tango community. They moved to SaddleBrooke three years ago, joined the Ballroom Dance Club, and continued to attend social tango dances (Milongas) in the Tucson area. From this experience, they will offer a streamlined method of instruction so you learn how to dance more quickly, more playfully, and with confidence to get you on the dance floor having fun.
“If you can walk, you can dance tango!”
An All-Levels class will be taught on Sundays from 3 to 4+ p.m. and Tuesdays from 5 to 6+ p.m. in the MountainView ballroom. The first half of each class will focus on essential skills, easy patterns, and proper styling so beginners and those with some experience will be confident and look good on the dance floor. The second half of the class will show more intermediate patterns and styling so those with some experience can build on their tango practice.
Teaching Approach
Mark and Peggy will explain the three styles of Argentine tango based on the musical timing: Tango, Vals (or Waltz), and Milonga, giving an example of each style. Attendees will learn the fundamentals of Argentine tango, including the lead/follow, frame, embrace, walking, basic and intermediate patterns, as well as styling, improvisation, and musicality. Most importantly, the class will help you understand how to develop your own tango dance style.
Regardless of your experience with Argentine tango, the goal will be to enable you to experience the emotional connection of tango so you look good on the dance floor and have a great time.
Register now for the All-Levels class in March at sbballroomdance.com.
Novice Classes
SBDC has free novice classes for non-members to get you started with easy dance steps. Taught by Dale and Ann Pizzitola, our resident professional dance instructors, these classes will be held on Wednesdays, March 5 and 19, with a practice party on March 26 in the Mariposa Room at DesertView from 4 to 5 p.m. Check the website for specifics and to register.