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
Argentine Tango Introduction (continued) Argentine Tango
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.
Argentine Tango Introduction (continued) Argentine Tango
AT - Intro - 4
Argentine Tango Introduction (continued) Argentine Tango
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)
Argentine Tango Introduction (continued) Argentine Tango
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
Amount of Turn Foot work
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
Amount of Turn Foot work
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
Amount of Turn Foot work
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
Alignment Step & Direction
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)
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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:
[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 and end
facing DRC.
Basic (continued) Argentine Tango
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.
Basic (continued) Argentine Tango
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
Amount of Turn Foot work
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
swvl on balls of feet
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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:
[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 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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
swvl on balls of feet
apply pressure to lady's left shoulder with finger tips of right hand
2
S
DLW
no wt chg
upper body 1/8 LF
swvl on balls of feet
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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.
Pasada (continued) Argentine Tango
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.
Pasada (continued) Argentine Tango
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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
Alignment Step & Direction
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
Alignment Step & Direction
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
NARRATIVE DESCRIPTION
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