The American Tango is a sophisticated and dramatic, yet less passionate version of the Argentine Tango. The partners generally maintain and upright position keeping a respectable distance away from one another while dancing in a formal style. If you don’t want to shock your grandmother your family wedding well this is the Tango for you.

The metered rhythm of the music is still Argentine but in many ways the American Tango is different. Passion is expressed with minimal touching. It’s Latin sensuality combined with New York sophistication. The steps are more formal and formulaic but allows for a variety of expression. And it’s still the classic tale of unbridled love and war between the sexes.

The Argentine Tango was influenced by the many cultures that emigrated to Argentina over a hundred years ago and became a dance of self expression and freedom. The American version, however, was a product of Hollywood that had to be toned down for the public at the time. Rudolph Valentino made this more reserved version a hit in America in 1921 and solidified his “Latin Lover” status.

The American Tango features punctuated elegance composed of a formal stance, disconnected movements, and head snaps that don’t happen in the Argentine Tango. Dips and twirls are abound as leg locks are very brief, if ever used. The Latin version focuses on passion while the American version focuses on fun.

You can easily dance the night away with only a few practiced moves of the American Tango. And the more move you learn the more impressive you will be. With dips and turns, leg sweeps and head snaps, you can easily look like a pro. But remember to have fun. That’s what the Tango is for!

Tony Meredith and Melanie LaPatin have been dancing, coaching, performing and creating fantastic choreography for over 30 years. The run New York City’s premier dance center If you want to learn more information of any dances make sure you check out their website. They are currently coachingdance lessons in NYC

Technorati Tags: American Tango, Argentine Tango, ballroom, dance, dancesport, Hollywood movies, movies, Music, Music & Music Players, recreational dance, tango