Embracing Elegance: The Timeless Beauty of Tango

The beauty of tango can be roughly divided into two categories: elegant and fancy. Elegance incorporates naturalness, simplicity, smoothness, refinement and sophistication, creating a sense of grace, balance, calm and harmony. Fanciness is characterized by grishness, flamboyance and frivolity, reflected in elaborate footwork, intricate movements and excessive embellishments. While both elegance and fanciness have their place in tango and each can contribute to the richness and diversity of the dance, in an era that celebrates extravagance and ostentation, embracing elegance seems to take on even greater significance. (See Paola Tacchetti.)

At its essence, tango is more than just a dance - it's a dialogue between two souls, requiring the focus on feelings rather than impressions. Elegance in tango is a reflection of inner harmony and a deep understanding of the dance. It has the power to evoke a myriad of emotions. In its simplicity lies its universality - an inward focus that speaks to the heart and resonates with the soul. While the allure of showcasing flashy moves and intricate footwork may seem irresistible, true mastery of tango lies in the pursuit of elegance. For tango dancers striving to transcend mere performance and elevate their artistry, embracing elegance is not just a choice - it's a journey towards timeless beauty and profound expression.

One of the enchanting aspects of elegance is its timeless appeal. Unlike fleeting trends or transient fads, elegance endures through the ages, leaving an indelible imprint on both the dancer and the observer. When we watch a truly elegant tango performance, we are captivated not by the complexity of the steps, but by the sheer beauty and grace emanating from the dancers' movements.

But perhaps the most compelling reason to embrace elegance in tango is its transformative effect on the dancer themselves. As dancers cultivate an elegant style, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. They learn to let go of ego-driven desires to impress and instead focus on deepening their connection with their partner, the music, and themselves. In the quest for elegance, tango dancers learn the invaluable lesson of restraint - the art of doing less to achieve more. By stripping away excess embellishments and focusing on the purity of movement, dancers uncover the true essence of tango and experience a newfound sense of freedom, authenticity and depth. They discover that true beauty lies not in the outward display of skill, but in the inward journey of self-expression and connection. (See True Beauty Comes from Within.)

So, to all tango dancers who aspire to transcend the ordinary and reach for the extraordinary, remember this: "Elegance is the only beauty that never fades." Embrace it, embody it, and let it guide you on your journey to becoming a master of the dance. (See The Elegance of the Milonguero Style.)