Two dancing couples

Arthur Murray Dances

Tango

Tango History

The Tango began in the West Indies and found its way to Argentina where it was stylized by the Gauchos. It became the rage in 1921 after the silent screen star Rudolph Valentino brought this romantic dance to millions in "The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse". More recently, it has been danced in movies such as True Lies and Scent Of A Woman. Today the Tango is considered the "dancer's dance" and becomes a favorite of all who learn it.

Tango Characteristics

The hold in Tango is more compact than in other moving dances. The walk in Tango differs from walks in other dances in that it is a staccato action obtained by delaying the follow through of the free leg and foot.

Tango songs and artists include:

Hernando's Hideaway - from "The Pajama Game"
La Cumparsita - Julio Iglesias
Por Una Cabeza - from "Scent Of A Woman"

Dance Styles

Here are just a few of the dances we teach at our studios. Click on any of the dances to learn more about the history, characteristics, and famous songs for that style.