https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/restriction-updates/
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Author Archives: TangoNova
Tangonova Class and Events Schedule Fall 2020
Covid-19 Nova Scotia Tango update:
The conditions for gathering and continuing health precautions (as of Oct 1) https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/restriction-updates/
Instruction: Anyone interested in studying tango with Tangonova, check class & events listing, and/or contact me (Margaret) personally via the web site or 902-229-8585. Include your specific interest, level and a phone number. I teach at all levels from new beginner to advanced. I organizing new classes according to the demand, so do let me know your interest so I make up small groups and find appropriate focus/level.
Private and small group instruction is recommended for those concerned about their safety and well-being due to the global pandemic. Though restrictions have lessened in our province as of Oct 1, many people remain hesitant to enter an embrace with anyone other than their regular partner. I respect everyone’s comfort level and work with people according to their preferences.
Tango Events: Milonga and practicas and group classes are now happening /see listings& description in “classes and events” on this web site.
Guest Teachers/Lectures: The best way for me to bring tango culture and learning to Halifax during the global pandemic is by Zoom. We are permitted to gather to listen or dance with some restrictions, but our borders are shut to any tango ambassadors from outside the Atlantic provinces ( and let’s face it, outside the Atlantic provinces is where 99% of the world’s tango is happening!) I am exploring educational opportunities, especially some superb lectures on tango history and music. I envision a hybrid learning environment: A group gathered to view together, while others tunie in from home. My goal is for us to continue our shared learning experiences so we become wiser dancers together!
What is a “Milonga”?
*The word Milonga has two meanings, often confusing for beginner dancers! 1) Milonga, is a gathering/ tango dance party: an event where people are dancing to recordings of tangos, vals or milonga (see second meaning). USE: I am going to the milonga tonight. 2) Milonga, also refers to the name of a dance form in the tango genre (tango, vals, and milonga) with an upbeat 2/4 rhythm, and classes are offered in Milonga. Historically the milonga dance form pre-dates tango, and has more Afro- Caribbean roots. USE: Let’s take that milonga class so we can dance the milonga set at next Saturday’s milonga.
Milonga Event Format: Tango is a traveling dance that moves counter clockwise along the line of dance. Ideally couples “navigate” respectfully on the dance floor, not passing one another or colliding or stalling the flow. Music is played by a DJ in tandas (sets) of 3-4 songs of one type (tango, vals or milonga). The end of the tanda (set) is marked by a cortina (curtain) – a short non-tango riff of 25-35 seconds. This is the time to escort one another off the dance floor and switch partners, if you like. When a couple choose to dance together, it is customary to dance out the full tanda, not rotating until the cortina. Should either person decide to end the partnership mid-tanda, it would be considered rude for him or her to then acquire a new partner for that same tanda. These are customs not rules. If you are planning to dance at milongas in Buenos Aires, additional codigos (codes) may apply, useful to know and readily available on the internet.
About Halifax Milongas
FALL 2020 Edgett Dance and Wellness Centre/monthly: see events listing for fall 202o.
SUMMER Milonga Del Puerto Mid-June thru mid-September = look for tango on the Halifax waterfront. Foot of Morris at Lower Water St/across Cunard parking lot. Likely Saturday evenings. Weather permitting!
For current info, Check web calendar or tangonova or East Coast Tango Society FB page /or get on my email list.
Regular DJ = Leggy Peggy (mostly traditional tango recordings from the golden age of tango with a few contemporary sets. Requests honoured, when in keeping with group spirit. Occasional Guest DJs, local or out of town visitors.
Welcome to Tangonova
“This is how to dance the tango!
Feel the blood rise to your face with every beat;
While an arm winds like a snake
Around a waist that is about to break.
This is how to dance the tango!”
Founded in 2003 by dance instructor Margaret Spore, Tangonova is dedicated to establishing an authentic tango presence in Nova Scotia. Intimate, improvisational and challenging. Argentine tango is truly the dance of fearless passion.
To inquire about classes at any level in Argentine tango, contact Margaret at 902-229-8585. Tangonova offers classes for both new beginners and experienced students, in all genres of of the dance. Singles and couples of all ages welcome, as well as those learning both roles.