Belfast Argentine Tango Society

BELFAST TANGO FLASH MOB

2012-03-09T16:44:00.000Z

FLASH MOB PHOTOS

2012-02-28T16:53:00.001Z

INTRODUCTION TO TANGO

2012-02-24T17:01:00.000Z

Aldo and Ana Lia's Performance

2012-02-22T12:25:00.002Z

I'm sure everyone would agree that last weekend's workshops with Aldo and Ana lia were a great success. The quality of the teaching and the content of the lessons were top class. And what a wonderful performance by Aldo and Ana Lia at our monthly milonga. Can't wait to see them back again! In case you missed it, or want to see it again, here it is:

MILONGA and WORKSHOPS

2012-02-16T16:56:00.000Z

Milonga Saturday February 18th WINDSOR LAWN TENNIS CLUB from 9pm, with DJ John and profomances from Aldo and Ana Lia. Price £5.

WORKSHOPS: Sunday February 19th QUB Students Union.

2- 3.30 (Beg) 3 tempos of Giros

3.45- 5.15 (Beg/Imp) Milonguero Style

5.30- 7pm (Imp) Milonga Traspie.

£10 for 1 class, £15, £20 for 3 classes.

TANGO FLASH REHEARSALS

2012-02-07T18:07:00.000Z

JANUARY MILONGA

2012-01-22T19:25:00.000Z

TANGO CAFÉ

2012-01-20T12:56:00.000Z

Tango Café, every Sunday, Queen's University, Belfast, 3pm - 6pm.

UPCOMING BATS SPECIAL EVENTS

2012-01-12T16:45:00.001Z

As well as the regular weekly events, we have planned the following workshop weekends to bring a wider variety of genuine Argentine teachers to you (so much cheaper than travelling to them). More details will be issued closer to each event, but each weekend will comprise afternoon workshops (for all levels) on both the Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

18/19^th February – Aldo and Ana Lia Romero. Probably our most regular visiting teachers, always full of energy and fun. That’s why we keep bringing them back.

14/15^th April – Marcello and Luiza Almiron. This couple did a few classes for us last year and we were so impressed that we promised to have them back – so here they are, the weekend after Easter.

19/20^th May – Maria Maragaki and Guillermo Torrens. We’re very excited that this couple are coming to us the week before the Midnight Tango show opens in the Waterfront – Guillermo is performing in it so this is a great chance to learn from the stars!

Practica on every Thursday.

The venue is THE WEST (although the name is not on the front of the building) on the Falls Road. It has a good floor, with plenty of seating/socialising area in the bar. There is a dedicated car park behind it (go in the back door and up one flight). The attached link to Google maps shows it. If you turn into La Salle Drive, the car park can be accessed from it.

Tango Cafe re-starts this Sunday at QUB Students Union

The popular Tango Cafe starts again this Sunday (15^th) in QUB Students Union (in Club Rooms 3/4 but ask at reception). Drop in anytime between 3 and 6pm for a dance, chat and Paula’s lovely buns. All for just £2.

Milonga Saturday 21^st at Windsor Tennis Club – Beginners’ Special!

Our regular monthly Milonga is the 3^rd Saturday of the month, so that’s Saturday 21^st Jan. To get everyone moving in the new year, we are making it a Beginners’ Special, which means if it is your first ever Milonga, then it is free. Plus, come along sharp at 9pm til 9.15 for a few tips on what to do and to get a feel for things before the floor gets busy later. Price £5 for everyone else.
It’s the only reason you do classes ......

It’s in WINDSOR TENNIS CLUB, on Windsor Avenue, from 9pm. Press the buzzer on the wall if the gate is closed. Nibbles will be provided, and there is a bar so don’t bring your own – plase support the bar.

Monday classes with Simona.

Monday classes have re-started with Simona Zaino (http://www.tangofever.net) for a few weeks. Simona is a well respected teacher on the Dublin scene. Last week she started with some important basic techniques but soon built on them with some useful sequences. Same place, same time, even the same price (despite our rising costs). SHAFTESBURY BOWLING CLUB, 20A Annadale Avenue:

Classes are in the usual format:

7.00-8.15              Beginners
8.15-9.00              Practica for all levels
9.00-10.15           Improvers

Cost - £7 for one class, £10 for two (OAP/Un-waged Concession: £5/£8 – please show ID).

SANTA VISITS TANGO CAFÉ

2012-01-06T13:39:00.000Z

CHRISTMAS MILONGA

2012-01-05T15:49:00.000Z

TANGO CAFÉ PHOTOS

2011-10-17T17:49:00.000+01:00

MILONGA/ TANGO CAFÉ

2011-10-14T14:56:00.000+01:00

Our Monthly Milonga is moving to Windsor Tennis Club this month - on Saturday (15th) from 9pm-12+, price £5. We're in the comfort of the upstairs area and the bar will be open (don't bring your own) so please support it. Everyone is welcome - even if you've only done one class, you can do something. Here's a link to the map, if you don't know where Windsor Avenue is:WINDSOR TENNIS CLUB

Remember also, that the Tango Cafe continues on Sunday in QUB Students Union. Drop in anytine between 3-6pm, price £2. A chance to practice, or chat, ask questions, all with free tea, coffee and buns!

CLASSES - SUNDAY CAFÉ - PRACTICA

2011-09-28T15:52:00.000+01:00

What better way to relax than to come along to the Sunday Tango Cafe, for a bit of dancing, craic, chat and buns. This Sunday, we’re in the Snack Bar of the Students Union, from 3-6pm, just drop in anytime. Only £2!

Then on Monday we start with our teacher for the autumn – Monina Paz. For those who are relatively new to our group, we have used Monina many times before . She is a well established professional teacher, from Argentina, based in Dublin. Classes are still in SHAFTESBURY BOWLING CLUB, 20A Annadale Avenue, 7pm for Beginners/Improvers, 9pm for Improvers/Intermediates

On Thursday's we have our weekly practica in THE WESTfrom 8pm - 10. 30pm. A chance to practice what you have learned and plenty of helpful advice.

But don’t relax too much, the following weekend (Saturday 1^st October) is our Milonga in Windsor.

WORKSHOPS/MONDAY CLASS VIDEOS

2011-09-09T20:53:00.002+01:00

Workshops with Leonardo and Yasmin – Sunday 11^th & 18^th September

There’s something suitable for everyone in the class. They will be in the Snack Bar , QUB Students Union, £7 per workshop.

Sunday 11th Sept: Gaining structure and fluidity in the dance

3-4.30pm – Beginners/Improvers: Walking and Pivot techinque, "Giros" (turns), "Ochos" (eights) and various "Salidas" (different possibilities to start dancing).

4.30-6pm – Improvers/Intermediate: Deep review of "Giros" (turns), "Boleos & Arrastres" inside the "Giros", different dynamics in the dance (slow, fast, flexible & compact).

Sunday 18th Sept: Milonga

3-4.30pm – Beginners/Improvers: Rhythm and musicality, walking and Ochos, "traspié" (literally, a trip or stumble, but think of it as a quick hesitation/rebound step).

4.30-6pm – Improvers/Intermediates: Deep review of ochos, "traspié" with ornaments, new & traditional movements.

Monday Class Videos

Tango Café and Monday Class

2011-09-05T15:36:00.002+01:00

The first Tango Café was a great success. The atmosphere was relaxed and friendly. Plenty of dancing and fun for everyone. Thanks to Peter for the music and Paula for the lovely cakes. What a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon! Roll on the next one!!

From this Monday (5^th) our classes will be moving from our temporary summer Students Union venue to a new venue for the autumn –Shaftsbury Bowling Club, 20A Annadale Avenue, BT7 3JH. There is car parking inside (please don’t park on the grass!). The bar will be open. The floor is great – just slightly smaller than City Church. Classes will be the same time and format, and we still have the fabulous Leonardo and Yasmin for a few more weeks.

Re-cap of what we did last week:

MONDAY CLASS VIDEO

2011-08-31T13:55:00.000+01:00

MONDAY CLASSES

2011-08-22T15:42:00.000+01:00

Classes continue this Monday (22/08/2011) with Leonardo and Yasmin. Here is last week's lesson:

Monthly Milonga

2011-08-11T14:31:00.000+01:00

Our monthly Milonga is on this Saturday, 13 August, from 9pm at BELFAST ROWING CLUB, Lockview Road, Stranmillis. Price £5 including nibbles, but bring your own drink as there is no bar. This month, we will have the added attraction of Leonardo and Yasmin attending the Milonga, so it’ll be a great chance to see them in action. Here they demonstrating the lesson after last Monday's class:

Monday classes with Leonardo and Yasmin

2011-08-04T16:16:00.000+01:00

For those of you who haven’t been to Monday class since Leonardo and Yasmin started – they are proving very popular and exciting (and they aren’t afraid to stretch us!). For the rest of the summer, we will continue in the Students Union – and we should be in “The Space”.

YouTube clips of last Monday’s classes.

GREAT VIDEO

2011-07-27T20:17:00.000+01:00

JULY MILONGA PHOTOS

2011-07-18T14:11:00.001+01:00

MONTHLY MILONGA/ MONDAY CLASSES

2011-07-15T20:44:00.001+01:00

Our Monthly Milonga is on Saturday 16^th.

It is in the normal venue BELFAST ROWING CLUB, Lockview Road, Stranmillis from 9pm until late.

Price £5, includes nibbles, but bring your own drink.

Monday classes resumes with our new teachers Leonardo and Yasmin. From their first class a fortnight ago, it looks like they should be fun and worthwhile. Usual times (Beginners 7pm Practice 8.15pm, Improvers 9pm) but in the new summer venue of QUB Students Union – this week we will be in the Snack Bar again – just ask at reception for directions.

CUSTOMS AND ETIQUETTE FOR SOCIAL TANGO

2011-07-15T15:36:00.001+01:00

Taken from JohanSteyn, Vida Mia Tango Café, Dublin

DANCE FLOW IN TANGO

2011-07-15T15:21:00.000+01:00

Geraldine Rojas and Ezequiel Paludi

2011-07-11T16:04:00.002+01:00

Geraldine Rojas and Ezequiel Paludi in Dublin with Tango Fiesta>
Dancing at the Grand Ball, July 2nd, 2011.

VIDEO 2
VIDEO 3

NEW TEACHERS FOR MONDAY CLASSES

2011-07-03T17:44:00.000+01:00

For July and August we will be using the QUB Student’s Union for the weekly Monday classes (as we did last year). We will be in different rooms sometimes, so just ask at reception (this Monday we are in the Snackbar). Same times, same prices. (Note there will be no class the following Monday, 11^th July).

For the whole summer we will have two new teachers for the Monday classes: Leonardo D’Aquila and Yasmin Garnelo. They will be based in Dublin for the summer, but we will be bringing them up here for you.
Here's clips of them dancing:

MID - SUMMER MILONGA

2011-07-01T14:01:00.002+01:00

Midsummer Milonga and Workshops

2011-05-27T16:08:00.001+01:00

We’re now taking bookings for our annual event – the Midsummer Milonga and Workshops weekend, on 25/26^th June, with Marion and Enrique.

Belfast Argentine Tango Society

Presents their 2011

4^th Midsummer Milonga & Tango Workshop Weekend

On Saturday/Sunday 25^th/26^th June

Featuring Workshops and Performances from

“Caminos De Tango” Marion & Enrique Ringa www.caminosdetango.com

A weekend of workshops for Beginners and Improvers taught by these international maestros of Tango, plus your chance to see them perform and dance yourselves, by the river in Belfast at our Midsummer Milonga.

Programme:

	Saturday – “Focus on Music”	Level	Saturday 25^th
Workshop 1	Musical Interpretation: with basic movements.	Level 1&2	2.30-3.30
Workshop 2	Milonga: Rhythmical patterns.	Level 1&2	3.45-4.45
Workshop 3	Waltz: Circular patterns.	Level 2	5.00-6.00
Milonga	Midsummer Milonga with performances from Marion & Enrique	ALL!	8.30-1.00am

	Sunday – “Focus on Sequences”		Sunday 26^th
Workshop 4	Essential milonguero steps	Level 1&2	2.30-3.30
Workshop 5	Sacadas	Level 1&2	3.45-4.45
Workshop 6	Nuevo style and Soltadas	Level 2	5.00-6.00

Note: The Level 1 workshops are not suited to complete beginners, students would need to have done a couple of classes on the basics previously. (Level 1 = our Beginner class, Level 2 = Improvers).

Venues:

Workshops: SHORTS SOCIAL & RECREATION CLUB, Holywood Road, Sydenham, Belfast BT4 1SL, near George Best City Airport, on Metro bus service 3A from City Hall. Food and drink is available, please do not bring your own.

Milonga: BELFAST ROWING CLUB, Hay Island, 10 Lockview Road, Belfast BT9 5FJ. Here’s a link to a map:

For more information, email belfast.tango@yahoo.co.uk or phone John: 07801 367 645

Prices:
1 workshop	£12	Sat. Workshop 1
2 workshops	£22	Sat. Workshop 2
3 workshops	£32	Sat. Workshop 3
4 workshops	£40	Sat Milonga
5 workshops	£48	Sun. Workshop 4
6 workshops	£56	Sun. Workshop 5
Milonga	£10	Sun. Workshop 6

MAY MILONGA PHOTOS

2011-05-27T15:56:00.000+01:00

MONTHLY MILONGA

2011-05-18T17:02:00.000+01:00

Our monthly Milonga is this Saturday, from 9pm in BELFAST ROWING CLUB, Lockview Road, Stranmillis, £5 (includes finger food; bring your own drink). If you’re putting off coming to your first Milonga until you get a bit better ....don’t wait; you’ll never come. Jump in now – it’s the best way to learn. We’re all very understanding of first timers, so don’t worry.

TANGO'S BACK

2011-05-08T17:06:00.000+01:00

Tango’s back after the Easter and May Day break – classes re-start on Monday, If you dropped out of things over the winter, now’s the time to get back into it.

Our regular Monday classes will continue with Monina. Most of you will know Monina from previous classes, but the newer members can find out more about her from her website: www.tangoireland.com

Classes will be in the usual format:

7.00-8.15 Beginners

8.15-9.00 Practica for all levels

9.00-10.15 Improvers

PRACTICA

2011-04-28T16:29:00.000+01:00

Thursday 28th, and the following Thursday, our regular Practica takes place upstairs at The West on the Falls Road. It’s good to see a few more people venturing along. It is a really informal session, with no set times (8-10.30pm-ish) where you can have a chat, buy a drink, ask questions and have a bit of craic. Most who come along say it really supplements what we learn in class.

The attached link to Google maps shows THE WEST (and the car park behind it), but if you drive up the Donegal Road (from the Broadway roundabout at the Park Centre on the Westlink) towards the Falls Road, then turn right onto the Falls Road (city bound) then it is about 200 yards on the right, between La Salle Park and La Salle Drive. If you turn into La Salle Drive, the rear car park can be accessed from it, enter by the back door and we’re upstairs.

TANGO: 'IT'S NOT MERELY A DANCE'

2011-04-21T16:50:00.001+01:00

MILONGA PHOTOS

2011-04-18T17:00:00.000+01:00

Marcelo Almiron and Luiza Pasierowska Demo

2011-04-17T19:26:00.001+01:00

Marcelo Almiron and Luiza Pasierowska give a tango demonstration at the Belfast Argentine Tango weekly class, Monday, March 29, 2011

Milonga demonstration

MILONGA

2011-04-16T17:01:00.000+01:00

This Saturday (16^th) is our monthly Milonga, in BELFAST ROWING CLUB, Lockview Road, Stranmillis. It starts at 9pm and costs £5 (bring your own drink if you wish, as there is no bar, but finger food is provided).

Milonga/Monday Class

2011-04-01T16:24:00.002+01:00

In association with SalsaBelfast, we’re hosting a Milonga in the downstairs room of the WINDSOR LAWN TENNIS CLUB (37 Windsor Avenue) this Saturday. The Milonga will start at 9pm and will include a half hour taster class half way through for anyone new to it.
BATS – our next BATS Milonga will be Saturday 16^th April.

Monday classes with Monina.

Following the excellent, but rather short, two weeks of Marcello and Luiza our regular Monday classes will continue with Monina. Tangoireland

Classes will be in the usual format:
7.00-8.15 Beginners
8.15-9.00 Practica for all levels
9.00-10.15 Improvers

Monday Class

2011-03-19T17:37:00.000Z

On Monday, the regular class will be taken by a new pair of visiting teachers, from Buenos Aires. They are Marcello Almiron and Luiza. Venue: CITY CHURCH

7.00-8.15 Beginners

8.15-9.00 Practica for all levels

9.00-10.15 Improvers

MARCH MILONGA/ RAUL'S FINAL CLASS

2011-03-16T14:18:00.001Z

Milonga , Saturday 19^{th March, 9pm BELFAST ROWING CLUB}, Lockview Road, Stranmillis (in the car park after the Cutters Wharf pub)

After a successful workshop on Sunday, Raul's final class on Monday brought to an end a very challenging, interesting and rewarding nine weeks of tango classes.
Challenging because we had to think about what we were doing and why, not just learn 'steps'.
Interesting, because if we accept the challenge it moves us, as dancers, in a new direction.

And rewarding because it opens up endless possibilities to progress in our dancing.

PRACTICA, WORKSHOP, CLASS

2011-03-10T12:47:00.000Z

This is Raul’s last week in Ireland before he goes back to Buenos Aires. So Monday will be his last class with us, but before then, you have a special chance to avail of his great teaching skills in a couple of intensive one and a half hour workshops, on Sunday afternoon:

3.00 - 4.30 Beginners

4.45 – 6.15 Improvers

Both workshops will be on “Elements of Improvisation” – a topic essential if you are to lift your Tango beyond mere sequences. Raul was very keen to do these workshops for us, such is the importance he puts on this subject.

Each workshop will be £12 and they will be held in BELFAST ROWING CLUB, Lockview Road, Stranmillis (in the car park after the Cutters Wharf pub), upstairs, where we hold our regular monthly Milonga (which is Saturday week, 19^th, by the way). Plenty of parking is available. Tea and coffee making facilities will be available.

Last Monday class with Raul

Raul’s last classes with us.

7.00-8.15 Beginners

8.15-9.00 Practica for all levels

9.00-10.15 Improvers

Thursday Practica – much more informal than the Milongas. We normally use it as a chance to go over the steps taught the previous Monday (if we haven’t forgotten them already!). Venue: THE WEST, Falls Road, from 8pm to 10pm (drop in anytime), price £2. The West is on the Falls Road between La Salle Park and La Salle Drive. If you turn into La Salle Drive, the car park can be accessed from it. Enter from the car park and we’re upstairs.

CLASS AND PRACTICA

2011-02-27T16:52:00.001Z

Monday classes with Raul. Venue: CITY CHURCH

Our regular classes continue with Raul Masiocchi from Argentina.

Classes will be in the usual format:

7.00-8.15 Beginners

8.15-9.00 Practica for all levels

9.00-10.15 Improvers

Practica

Every Thursday in THE WEST

A Time and a Place to practice what you have learned in class in an informal setting.

Drop in Anytime between 8pm and 10:30pm. You’ll be surprised how much your dancing improves.

February Milonga Photos

2011-02-23T18:02:00.000Z

Monday classes with Raul and Nora

2011-02-20T15:46:00.001Z

Raul continues to stretch us (physically and mentally!) Usual details: CITY CHURCH

7.00-8.15 Beginners

8.15-9.00 Practica for all levels

9.00-10.15 Improvers

MILONGA

2011-02-18T13:01:00.001Z

BATS Monthly Milonga this Saturday, (Feb 19) BELFAST ROWING CLUB, 9pm.

This is why we go to classes – so we can dance socially. If you’ve been to just one class, you know enough to come along. Dress up if you like, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously. The price is just £5 and the Milonga starts at 9pm (until after 12). Belfast Rowing Club on Lockview Road, Stranmillis (in the car park after the Cutters Wharf pub) and is the one before the one with the big bubble over the tennis court. We’re upstairs. Nibbles will be provided, but bring your own drink if desired (glasses are available)

Classes and Practica

2011-02-14T14:59:00.002Z

Monday classes

Raul and Nora will continue the Monday classes, with their methodical and very sound tuition. And of course, don’t forget to make use of the Practica between classes – no matter what level you are at. The teachers are there during the Practica, so feel free to ask them questions. Venue CITY CHURCH

Class details:

7.00-8.15 Beginners

8.15-9.00 Practica for all levels

9.00-10.15 Improvers

Thursday Practica: 8pm to 10:30pm

A time and a place to practice what you have learned in classes in an infomal setting.

You don't have to stay for the full time, come and go at any time between 8pm and 10:30pm. Cost: only £2. Venue THE WEST

Practica and Milonga

2011-02-03T16:11:00.001Z

Hi everyone,

There’s no excuse for not getting enough practice in this week:

Hot on the heels of our regular monthly Milonga last Saturday, there’s another Milonga this Saturday (5^th) as part of SalsaBelfast’s Windsor night. These events aren’t normally so close together, but our January Milonga was later than usual. It was good to see a few more beginners venturing out last Saturday – there were no reports of injuries! This Saturday’s Milonga is in Windsor Lawn Tennis Club, Windsor Avenue (between the Malone and Lisburn Roads) from about 9.30pm until after midnight, price £6. The Tango is in the downstairs room, while there is Salsa upstairs if you fancy a change. There will be a ½ hour taster class for beginners around about 9.30. More details of the event:

http://salsabelfast.com/news/dismsg.php?id=543

Before then, you can always get a bit more practice at our regular Thursday Practica – much more informal than the Milongas. We normally use it as a chance to go over the steps taught the previous Monday (if we haven’t forgotten them already!). Venue: THE WEST, Falls Road, from 8pm to 10pm (drop in anytime), price £2. The West is on the Falls between La Salle Park and La Salle Drive. If you turn into La Salle Drive, the car park can be accessed from it. Enter from the car park and we’re upstairs.

January Milonga Photos

2011-02-02T16:45:00.004Z

Another great Milonga!

There was plenty of dancing, good food and great fun.

It also happened to be Alastair's birthday ( he wouldn't tell us his age) but he was able to dance with quite a few girls.

Here he is ( I have to admit that he's a pretty good dancer).

TANGO MUSIC

2011-01-28T14:52:00.002Z

A local performance with some tango music will take place on February 2 at 20:00 - 23:00 in the Harty Room, Music Building, QUEEN'S UNIVERSITY, BELFAST

A guitar recital of solo and duet repertoire featuring Brian Keenan, Greg Caffrey, Neil Morgan, Daragh Gillen, Declan Keenan, and Michael McGuffin (piano).

Programme:

Astor Piazzolla – Tango No.2 (from the Tango Suite for two guitars)

Jaime Zenamon – Casablanca (for two guitars)

Fernando Sor – Introduction and Variations on a Theme by Mozart, Op.9

Manuel de Falla - Homenaje: Le Tombeau de Claude Debussy

Leo Brouwer – Micro Piezas (for two guitars)

Joaquin Rodrigo – Adagio from Concierto de Aranjuez (with piano accompaniment)

Tickets £8/£5, available at the door, in aid of the production of Handel’s Alcina.

http://www.music.qub.ac.uk/NewsandEvents/

http://www.facebook.com/?sk=events#!/event.php?eid=104522156290050

Practica and Milonga

2011-01-26T19:28:00.002Z

There is a practica every Thursday in THE WEST from 8pm onwards, it usually finishes around 10:30 pm. It's an informal get-together so you can come along at anytime. If you have attended any of our classes you will know how important it is to practice what you have learned (new steps are easily forgotten once the class ends). Everyone at the practica is only too willing to help, if they can, and there's no pressure just some fun, which is why we all start Tango in the first place.

Our Monthly Milonga will be on Saturday (29^th January) at the BELFAST ROWING CLUB Lockview Road, Stranmillis. For those who haven’t been to one yet, it is just a social event where we dance, chat ... and watch :) Anyone who has been to a class is welcome. Milongas, and the more informal Practicas on Thursdays, are the only way to ingrain the lessons learnt at classes. From 9pm, price £5.

Monday Classes

2011-01-15T18:33:00.001Z

We are changing the class structure slightly this term – it didn’t work out too well for everyone concerned when we tried to run the middle class and the Practica at the same time. So this term we will combine all beginners in the first class, have the Improvers class at the end of the evening and have a decent length of Practica in between the two so everyone can join in it. We all need more practice, so it is important that after doing the beginners’ class, you stay for the practica and that the Improvers come early enough that they can use the Practica too. Venue details: CITY CHURCH

7.00-8.15 Beginners

8.15-9.00 Practica for all levels

9.00-10.15 Improvers

For the next six or seven weeks, the classes will be taught by Nora (who taught last term with Monina) and Raul Mascciochi from Buenos Aires.

New Season of Tango Classes

2011-01-07T20:32:00.002Z

I hope you are all itching to get back to Tango in the New Year.

Our teachers for the winter season (Raul and Nora – more about them next week) don’t start until Monday 17^th so we will use this Monday (10^th) as a refresher class to get you back into the swing of things before the teachers arrive next week. It does no harm to re-visit the things taught last term and to get the body loosened up again ready for Raul and Nora.

So this Monday will comprise first of all of a Beginners class taken by myself, with the help of some of the other Committee members. This will be suitable for those who did the Beginners or the First Time Beginners classes last term (although any Improvers are welcome to join in too). Our plan is to combine these two classes into one from now on, so this will be a good chance to bring the two classes together before the pressure of a new teacher.

Rather than confuse you with new steps, we will re-iterate the basic fundamentals – topics that are often missed when our rotating teachers come in and pick up an existing group. We will also show you how to bring everything you’ve learnt so far into putting together a 3 minute tango dance – this is going to be a prime focus this term – to get more of you participating in the Practice sessions and Milongas – so it starts on Monday!

7-8.30 Class for Beginners and last term’s First Time Beginners

8.30- 10.30 Practica for all

Because of the seasonal threat of colds and flu, here is some advice on how we can protect ourselves:

The flu virus is spread in the small droplets of saliva coughed or sneezed into the air by an infected person. If you breathe in these droplets, you may become infected, but this spread can be prevented. Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, throw the tissue in the bin and wash your hands as soon as you can. These measures can help prevent all flu and flu-like illnesses.

The Popularity of Tango

2011-01-07T20:19:00.000Z

Practica Tonight

2011-01-06T17:09:00.000Z

There will be a Practica tonight,Thursday 6th, in The West from 8pm. For those who haven't been yet, it's just an informal Milonga, where we practice, ask each other for tips and help, and generally mix socially more than we can in class. Here's the location: THE WEST

Practica on Thursdays

2010-12-28T19:10:00.002Z

There will be a Practica starting this Thursday (30th) in The West from 8pm. For those who haven't been yet, it's just an informal Milonga, where we practice, ask each other for tips and help, and generally mix socially more than we can in class. Here's the location: THE WEST

Christmas Milonga

2010-12-16T15:44:00.005Z

A great night!

Not Strictly Tango

BATS - CHRISTMAS PARTY 2010

2010-12-09T17:12:00.001Z

It’s on Monday (13^th) at 7pm for 7.30pm at Shu restaurant, 253 Lisburn Road (downstairs, in the basement). The price is £15 for which you will get a buffet main course and dessert, followed by a Milonga. We had our party here last year and it is a great venue. Shu Restaurant

Some of the photos from the 2009 Christmas Party in Shu Restaurant.

End of Year Events

2010-12-05T16:52:00.000Z

1. Monday (6^th) with be the last class of the year. So, it’s your last chance to catch Monina and Nora – same venue and times. CITY CHURCH

Beginners (current) 7.00 – 8.00pm

First Time Beginners 8.00 – 9.00pm

Practice (Beg & Imp) 8.00 – 9.00pm

Improvers 9.00 – 10.00pm

2. Monday (13^th) is our end of year Christmas Party, in Shu Restaurant, Lisburn Road. The time is 7 for 7.30, the price is £15, which gets you a buffet main course, dessert and coffee (let us know when booking of you have any special dietary requirements). You need to book and pay in advance – so that means at this Monday’s class (or let me know if you can’t make the class). We hope to have Nora along (but Monina will be back in Buenos Aires by then). After the meal, we’ll be dancing, so bring your dancing shoes!

3. Due to the unavailability of the venue, there will be no Practica on Thursday 9^th or 16^th this month (so come to the party to practice!)

Alan

Practica Every Thursday

2010-11-23T18:09:00.000Z

The venue is “The West” (although the name is not on the front of the building) on the Falls Road. It has a good floor, with plenty of seating/socialising area in the bar. There is a dedicated car park behind it (either go in the back door and up one flight or walk round to the front door on the main road to get in – in the front door and just round to the right). THE WEST

Monthly Milonga

2010-11-21T20:13:00.000Z

Peter and Paula dance for Teresa on her birthday At BATS monthly Milonga.

GUILLERMO BARRIONUEVO and MONINA PAZ

2010-11-17T18:21:00.001Z

Monina and Guillermo gave an impromptu demonstration on Monday at BATS weekly class. This was Guillermo's last night in Belfast.

Monday Classes

2010-11-14T20:12:00.001Z

Weekly Monday classes – last class with Monina and Guillermo this Monday.

Beginners (current) 7.00 – 8.00pm

First Time Beginners 8.00 – 9.00pm

Practice (Beg & Imp) 8.00 – 9.00pm

Improvers 9.00 – 10.00pm

This week's lesson will be:

Only Joking!!!

Bandoneon: The Soul Of Tango

2010-11-11T16:32:00.000Z

The importance of the Bandoneon for the unique sound of Tango.

Another Reason To Dance Tango

2010-11-05T15:38:00.000Z

What is Tango Therapy?

Tango Therapy has been proven to improve aerobic capacity and coordination. It is a therapy very helpful in the treatment of some cardiac diseases, also Alzheimer’s and Parkinsons.

If you like to dance and you are a fan of the sensual tango you must know that to dance it has real, sound benefits for your health and that it is very good as a therapeutic application in some diseases.

The people who go often to the “Milongas” say that the rhythm of tango helps them improve some illnesses. For this reason some dance venues in Argentina are not only in leisure centres, they are also in places for professional treatment related to Parkinsons and Alzheimer’s. MORE...

Argentine tango is an absorbing activity that promotes attention; it has the potential to distract the individual from fears and anxiety about the future, and from negative thoughts from the past, by concentrating and focusing in the present moment.

Tango dance also demands strong connection with the dance partner. It incorporates touch and body communication, along with music and exercise.

Since anyone who can walk can learn the dance, tango may enhance a sense of achievement and self-efficacy, provoking a boost in self-esteem. MORE...

New Teacher For Monday Classes

2010-11-03T21:11:00.002Z

Monina Paz will be taking our Monday classes until the Christmas break. Those of you who have been with us over a year will remember her from when we last used her expertise.

For the first two weeks only, she will be accompanied by GUILLERMO BARRIONUEVO from Buenos. Here's a video of him:

And here is Monina in action:

Last Class With Beatriz

2010-11-02T15:27:00.000Z

Beatriz took her last Monday class with us on Monday (1^st Nov). She heads back to Buenos Aires at the end of the week.

She said she enjoyed her time in Belfast and I know that she will be missed by all who attended her classes

Party for Bea

2010-11-01T13:26:00.002Z

Everyone had a great time last night (Sunday) at Peter and Paula's. The party was organised as a thank you to Beatriz, who, unfortunately for us, is going back home to Argentina. She will be greatly missed! As with all 'tango parties' there was great food, fun and of course, dancing.

More Halloween Photos

2010-10-27T19:30:00.004+01:00

A great turnout for our Halloween Milonga. As you can see everyone really made the effort and got into the 'spirit' of things some more than

others. Dispite the getup, everyone still did their thing on the dance floor.

Milongas are held every month, usually on the third Saturday. If you haven't yet attended a Milonga, don't be put off because you have just started attending our weekly classes. A milonga is an opportunity to dance and that's why were are all learning Tango, in order to it socially. It doesn't matter what level you are at, it's about having fun. See you at the next Milonga!

Halloween Milonga

2010-10-26T16:28:00.003+01:00

Demo at Monday Class

2010-10-21T15:58:00.001+01:00

Beatriz Cisneros and Mauro Peralta

BATS At QUB

2010-10-21T12:27:00.001+01:00

The Belfast Argentine Tango Society danced as part of Latin American World Day in Queen's University Students' Union last Wednesday. There was a lunchtime tango demonstration, followed by impromtu lessons throughout the afternoon.

Weekly Monday Classes

2010-10-08T14:24:00.001+01:00

Beginners (current) 7.00 – 8.00pm

First Time Beginners 8.00 – 9.00pm

Practice (Beg & Imp) 8.00 – 9.00pm

Improvers 9.00 – 10.00pm

For this Monday (11^th) only, Bea is bringing Mauro Peralta to the classes It’ll be great to have both of them teach the classes. Hopefully Beatriz and he will do an impromptu performance on Monday for us. Mauro will be here only the one day, so don’t miss it! CITY CHURCH, BELFAST

Here is a clip of Mauro in action.

Practica Every Thursday

2010-09-30T15:40:00.001+01:00

You can drop in/out of the Practica anytime, there’s no fixed “start”, but we’ll be there from 8pm-10pm+ on Thursdays. Price £2. THE WEST

MONDAY CLASSES

2010-09-27T13:05:00.000+01:00

Beginners (current) 7.00 – 8.00pm

First Time Beginners 8.00 – 9.00pm

Practice (Beg & Imp) 8.00 – 9.00pm

Improvers 9.00 – 10.00pm

Cost - £7 for one class, £10 for both (Un-waged Concession: £5/£8 – please show ID).

Venue: CITY CHURCH BELFAST

Tango in the Street

Tango in the Street

2010-09-26T19:49:00.002+01:00

Tango in the street as part of Friday's Belfast Culture Night.

Members of the public watched enthusiastically as the sounds and dance of Buenos Aires was brought to the streets of Belfast.

The passion of the dancers prompted some members of the of
the public to 'have a go' Hopefully
this will encourage people to come along to our Tango lessons every Monday. Details can be found on the Blog.

BELFAST CULTURE NIGHT

2010-09-24T14:44:00.001+01:00

As part of Belfast Culture Night, we’ll be doing a bit of Tango outside La Boca restaurant in Fountain Street, this Friday (24^th) from about 5.30 to 8pm. Do feel free to come along and join in – no matter what level you are. Here is Mónica and Néstor Castillo, who visited Belfast a number of years ago, dancing, not in La Boca Belfast, but Buenos Aires.

Classes Every Monday

2010-09-20T12:57:00.001+01:00

Beginners (current) 7.00 – 8.00pm

First Time Beginners 8.00 – 9.00pm

Practice (Beg & Imp) 8.00 – 9.00pm

Improvers 9.00 – 10.00pm

Cost - £7 for one class, £10 for two (Un-waged Concession: £5/£8 – please show ID).

Venue CITY CHURCH, BELFAST

Another Great Milonga

2010-09-19T13:49:00.001+01:00

Last Night's Milonga was a great success. Great food, great company and great dancing. Everyone made the effort and dressed to impress.

Set against the background of the river Lagan, the milongueros and milongueras danced to the stains of some excellent music, (well thought out Tandas which encouraged the dancing), to the early hours of Sunday morning.

I'm sure everyone who was there would agree that it was a most enjoyable evening. Roll on October's Milonga!

MILONGA TONIGHT

2010-09-18T17:15:00.001+01:00

Milonga tonight in BELFAST ROWING CLUB starts at 9pm. See you there!

Milonga in Buenos Aires

BATS MILONGA (SATURDAY)

2010-09-17T15:20:00.000+01:00

A "milonga" is a social event/location for tango dancing. Confusingly, "Milonga" is also a distinct style of tango - a faster, often more jovial dance than pure tango. We teach milonga (style) as well as tango in classes and workshops. We organise and run milongas (events) monthly.

At a milonga we tend to dress up a bit more than in class - but there's no strict dress code. It is customary for a man to ask a woman to dance - but it's also fine for the woman to do the asking. If you are wary about asking someone (whether you are a man or woman) making eye contact with a nod to the dance floor can be a risk free option. And if your prospective dance partner looks away... well maybe they just didn't see you. The polite tanguero keeps an eye out for the tanguera who hasn't had a dance for a while and will ask her. Venue location BELFAST ROWING CLUB More details below in BATS Newsletter.

Here is an example of a Milonga taken from the film The Tango Lesson.

Something To Inspire

2010-09-16T17:00:00.000+01:00

Probably the most beautiful Tango song ever!

Practica Every Thursday.

2010-09-16T16:04:00.000+01:00

You can drop in/out of the Practica anytime, there’s no fixed “start”, but we’ll be there from 8pm-10pm+ on Thursdays. Price £2. Venue directions: THE WEST See you there!

BATS Newsletter

2010-09-16T00:37:00.000+01:00

Hi All,
It’s Milonga time!

First, a welcome to everyone who just started with us this term. We hope you haven’t found it too daunting, and have been enticed sufficiently to keep going through the difficult first weeks and months (but I’m not sure I could actually say it gets any easier – but you do definitely get better at it). This is our regular email newsletter that goes out once a week or fortnight to keep you informed of events organised by us, or other Tango organisers.

The main news is that it’s our Milonga weekend (every 3rd Saturday of the month). See below for more details of when and where it is, but absolutely everyone who’s even only done one class is welcome to come along, even if only to watch and get a flavour of what Tango is all about – but someone is bound to get you up on the floor. Remember there is no bar, so bring your own.

Now would be a good time to bring along a friend, relative or work colleague who you think might be interested in Tango – bring them a long for the 8pm class.

All the usual full details of all events are listed below this email

1. Weekly classes – with Beatriz on Mondays – new times.
2. Practica on Thursdays
3. Monthly Milonga – Saturday 18th September
4. New BATS Blog
5. YouTube clips
6. Non-BATS events

1. Weekly Monday classes – with Beatriz – new times.

Beatriz will be taking our Monday classes in the new term and will operate a 6 week syllabus. You can find out more about her at her website: http://beatanguera.weebly.com

Classes will be in the new format:

Beginners (current) 7.00 – 8.00pm

First Time Beginners 8.00 – 9.00pm

Practice (Beg & Imp) 8.00 – 9.00pm
Improvers 9.00 – 10.00pm

Cost - £7 for one class, £10 for two (Un-waged Concession: £5/£8 – please show ID).

Usual venue details: the main upstairs hall of City Church, 12-24 University Avenue (on the left as you head down the Avenue away from Botanic - there's a large white church, then City Church is a red brick building a few doors further, opposite the Spar). The hall is above the “Common Grounds" café, but enter through the double doors round the corner – ring the bell if closed. Here's a link to a map: CITY CHURCH

2. Practica on every Thursday.

You can drop in/out of the Practica anytime, there’s no fixed “start”, but we’ll be there from 8pm-10pm+ on Thursdays. Price £2.

The attached link to Google maps shows it (and the car park behind it), but if you drive up the Donegal Road (from the Broadway roundabout at the Park Centre on the Westlink) towards the Falls Road, then turn right onto the Falls Road (city bound) then it is about 200 yards on the right, between La Salle Park and La Salle Drive. If you turn into La Salle Drive, the car park can be accessed from it. THE WEST

3. Monthly Milonga – Saturday 18^th September

Our monthly Milonga is this Saturday (18th). It will again be held in Belfast Rowing Club, Lockview Road , Stranmillis (which is just before Belfast Boat Club, the one with all the tennis courts). It will be from 9pm to 12+ and the price is a mere £5. Everyone is welcome, no matter how many or few classes you have had. Come along and enjoy the music and try out what you’ve learnt in class.

To find it, get to the roundabout on the Stranmillis Road , in front of Stranmillis College and take the exit that is Lockview Road , which takes you past the Cutters Wharf pub. On the left just after the Cutters are two linked car parks, drive into the second one and go two thirds of the way up, where you should see a gate on the left with “Belfast Rowing Club” on it. You can’t drive in, just park there (there’s plenty of parking) and use the pedestrian gate (if you see tennis courts, you’ve gone too far, that’s Belfast Boat Club!). We are in the double storey building; go up the stairs immediately on the left when you go in – follow the music..... Here’s a link to a map: BELFAST ROWING CLUB

A few notes about this venue:

- As none of us drink enough, it is not worth them putting on a bar – so please bring your own.

- Smokers – the venue is a sports club with a no-smoking policy. If you must smoke (outside) please do not throw your butts on the ground – dispose of them carefully.

- Please refrain from putting talc on the floor.

4. New BATS Blog

Michael has set up a Blog which we can use for more day to day bits of information about events or Tango in general, rather than our main website (www.tangoinbelfast.org). You can also add comments of your own, so click below, add it to your favourites and join in:

5. YouTube Clip

Here’s a clip of our past teachers Marion and Enrique performing at this year’s Cork Tango Festival. It a double piece – one traditional (well, mostly, with a few showy moves :) and a Nuevo piece:

5. Non-BATS events

A. Nikos’ classes at The Crescent www.crescentarts.org/classes/dance/

Tango Salón Beginners: Nikos Kyriakidis | Saturdays 1-2.15pm ~ 16+ years ~ £69/£63

This class teaches the fundamentals of tango salón as it is danced in the milongas (tango night clubs) in Buenos Aires and the whole world. The objective is to familiarise students with the basic steps and routines under music and also tackles couple communication, posture and footwork.

Tango Salón Improvers: Nikos Kyriakidis | Fridays 9.15-10.30pm ~ 16+ years ~ £69/£63

This class continues the material taught in the beginners class and further enhances partner communication, footwork and elegant movement. Students are recommended to enrol with partners to allow focus on leader / follower roles. Towards the end of the class there will be an introduction to “milonga” dance – distinctive from tango but with common origins.

B. Nikos’ Classes at QUB Open Learning

www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofEducation/OpenLearning/Leisure/

Argentine Tango (Tango Salón) for Beginners

Fee £77.00 (concession rate £47.00) 10 weekly sessions

Autumn 2010 Thursdays 6.00 pm to 8.00 pm, starting 30 September

A complete course in tango salón for beginners aiming to develop the basic elements of communication, elegance and ‘seduction’ between leader and follower. We will study the fundamental aspects in caminadas, syncopation, ochos, giros, sacadas and barridas, among others. Upon completion, students will be able to demonstrate dancing to tango music smoothly and interpret it with basic routines.

Argentine Tango (Tango Salón) for Improvers

Fee £77.00 (concession rate £47.00) 10 weekly sessions

Autumn 2010 Thursdays 8.00 pm to 10.00 pm, starting 30 September

A continuation course in tango salón for students who have completed the Beginners’ course or have been dancing for at least one year. Leaders/followers are now given more complex routines to dance and what is expected from them is to apply the elements of communication, elegance and ‘seduction’ in their moves as individuals and as couples. The last 3 classes will be dedicated to introduction to milonga dance and its basic steps.

C. Piret’s classes in Portstewart

New 5 week ARGENTINE TANGO course starting on Thursday the 2nd of September in Portstewart Parish Hall at 6pm £5

D. Tango Pasión is on in the Grand Canal Theatre Dublin – October 18^th-23^rd

This famous show is coming to Dublin in the autumn. See www.grandcanaltheatre.ie for more information. Maybe we should book a bus to take us all down ……

E. Stirling Tango Festival with Aldo and Ana Lia and Marion and Enrique

Here’s some advance notice of this festival in February, with some familiar faces:

http://www.scotlandtangofestival.org.uk/index.html

TANGO FANATICS ONLY

2010-09-11T15:48:00.001+01:00

Practice whenever and wherever you get the chance

The Cabeceo (or how to ask someone to dance)

2010-09-10T20:17:00.000+01:00

In a Milonga men do not come up to the women and ask them to dance. In between sets they clear the floor, with music called a cortina, or curtain, and everybody sits down. The woman starts looking around the room to see who she would like to dance with, and then she stares at the man. If he wants to dance with her, he’ll stare back and nod to her. And then she’ll nod back, meaning ‘Yes, I’ll dance with you for this set.’ She stays sitting in her seat, and he will walk across the floor close to her table and wave. She stands up, they meet on the floor. “Hola, cómo estás? Todo bien?” The music starts. After a few phrases – there’s no rush – he’ll open his arms, and they’ll embrace. And they dance.

PRACTICA EVERY THURSDAY

2010-09-10T18:28:00.001+01:00

What is a Practica? It’s an informal event somewhere between a proper class and a formal Milonga. There is no structured tuition, but dancing with others and discovering for yourselves how steps work (or how they don’t) really adds to the tuition we get in class. Plus, you can always ask others for advice, as unlike in class or at a Milonga, there’s nothing to say you can’t stop mid-flow on the dance floor to debate a point.

The venue is “The West” (although the name is not on the front of the building) on the Falls Road. It has a good floor, with plenty of seating/socialising area in the bar. There is a dedicated car park behind it (either go in the back door and up one flight or walk round to the front door on the main road to get in – in the front door and just round to the right).

You can drop in/out of the Practica anytime, there’s no fixed “start”, but we’ll be there from 8pm-10pm+ on Thursdays. Price £2.

THE WEST

Tango Etiquette

2010-09-07T12:51:00.001+01:00

The new season of classes got off to a great start in City Church, Belfast last night, with many new beginners. But don't worry if you missed the first class, you can come along next week.
With the start of the new term it is perhaps timely to remind ourselves of some Tango etiquette.

Respect the person you are dancing with and respect the people around you.
Personal hygiene is essential for an enjoyable dancing experience.
Bad breath, body odour and excessive perspiration are common offenders. Be sensitive to your fellow dancers. Given the physical closeness in Tango, good hygiene is essential and, for the vast majority of dancers, it is not an issue. However, probably all of us have had the occasional dance where we have become aware of our partner’s presence in a less than Tango way.

Here are some tips:

Shower before dancing whenever possible.

Use a deodorant and, if you need to, an effective anti-perspirant.

Use aftershave and perfume sparingly: they can be quite overpowering and some people are allergic to them.

Use breath fresheners frequently.

Think carefully about eating strong foods before dancing, like garlic, onions and curry, as they linger on the breath, skin and clothes for a long time. Also, when you have been cooking – especially frying – the odour remains on your clothes.

One cause of body odour that is sometimes overlooked is stress. Especially if you are new to Tango. So, above all, enjoy yourself!

2010-09-06T16:40:00.000+01:00

Winners from the Tango Salon finals held in Buenos Aires,
Tuesday, August 31, 2010

New Tango Classes Start Tonight

2010-09-06T12:13:00.000+01:00

The new season of Tango classses starts tonight (Monday) with Beatriz Cisneros. Beatriz has been teaching Tango in Belfast since May 2010 and has proved to be a very popular and attentive teacher. This season she will be working on a six week syllabus so that learners will be able to follow their progress.

Here is Beatriz in action:

2010-09-05T18:20:00.000+01:00

An Evening at the Milonga

2010-09-05T17:47:00.000+01:00

How To Dance Tango

New Classes Starting

2010-09-05T17:32:00.000+01:00

A new season of Tango classes are starting tomorrow, Monday 6th September. Location City Church, University Avenue - above Common Grounds opposite the Spar!

We are continuing the new format we tried over the summer of reducing the classes to one hour but providing a one hour Practica between them – classes alone are not enough, so please do use the full two hours available to you now.

We will provide a First Time Beginners class during the Practica period, to give a better introduction to complete beginners rather than being thrown in with the “mature” Beginners. Some of the people who joined the current Beginners group may benefit from doing this class. If in doubt, feel free to ask.

Beatriz will be working on a 6 week syllabus for both the regular Beginner and Improver classes, so this will provide some structured progression for us. Don’t worry if you miss a class, but you should aim to attend all to get the full benefit.

Our Concession rate of £5 rather than £7 will now only apply to the un-waged i.e. full time students and OAPs (part time students who also work will have to pay the full price like everyone else – sorry, but we need to cover costs).

So the format will be:

7-8pm Current Beginners with prior experience

8-9pm First time Beginners class

8-9pm Practice session for current Beginners and Improvers

9-10pm Improvers class.

No partner or prior experience required (for First time Beginners class).

Cost: £7 for one class, £10 for two (£5/£8 for OAP and Full-time students only).

For more info: email belfast.tango@yahoo.co.uk or www.tangoinbelfast.org