The best introduction to tango is a combination of private lessons for a good start on technique, group lessons to practice those techniques, and attending practicas or milongas to actually go out and dance!

Group Argentine tango lessons

Thursdays @ Shabu Studios, 6055 NE Glisan

Beginners: 7 PM

If you are brand new to tango, or would like some semi-private time to work on your basics, this half hour class is designed to get a solid grip on tango fundamentals. You are invited to stay and practice, or take the all levels class.

All levels 7:30 PM

Whether you are brand new, have taken some drop-in lessons and are ready for ongoing study, are learning the other role, or are a more advanced dancer focusing on your fundamental technique, this class is for you!

We will start class with a quick warmup, and then do solo drills to help you improve your dance. Think of it as going to the tango gym! After that, we will switch over to partner work and focus will be USING our technique in the dance.

My aim is to provide a very practical, challenging workout for your mind and body, and fun times dancing with nice people! The beginner class is free to dancers in the all levels class.

Advanced intermediate & up: 8:30 PM

The 8:30 PM class tackle difficult combinations, deeper musicality, lead/follow technique and creativity within the dance. If you are in the 8:30 class, the other classes are free for you; consider working on the “other” role as a warmup!

This class is designed to challenge you while you have fun. Most of the dancers switch roles, but it is not required. I encourage you to bring a partner to this class.

Private lessons (individual & couple)

It is impossible to become an advanced tango dancer without private lessons, but sometimes private lessons are also the best choice for beginners, too. I teach private lessons in my home studio as well as other locations in Portland.

Why take private dance lessons?

One-on-one attention shapes better dance technique

In a private dance lesson, you have my full attention. I can shape the lesson for your needs, rather than balancing different learning styles of an entire group. Many people prefer private lessons because of the wealth of detail they can learn one-on-one or in a couple. Also, working privately with a teacher gives you the chance to dance with an expert, rather than other beginners, which speeds up the learning process. It may seem expensive, but in the long run, you will become a better dancer much faster utilizing private lessons.

Shy or anxious people often benefit from private lessons

Many people take private lessons because they are shy or because they suffer from anxiety. It can be very stressful to learn to dance in front of other people. In a private lesson, it feels safer to address the blocks you have to couple dancing. I can help you make a plan for "going public" with your dance, once you feel confident enough to venture out.

I have training dealing with anxiety disorders, and I am also a shy person, so I can help you both learn the dances you want and prepare to do them socially. Remember: a lot of people feel the way that you do!

Come dance with me!