Annual Tango Party at Palo Alto JCC on January 4, 2014, Saturday !
Redwood Tango Ensemble, 5 musicians,
DJ Rene
Dance Party starts at 8:30. Two dance floors: dance on stage.
7:30 - 8:30 (Free) Intermediate-Advanced class with Igor Polk:
"Secret of "Pivoting inside the body" of Milonguero Style. Enables you to dance wonderfully without actual pivoting. Great for outdoors and crowded places."
Potluck. Bring wine, food to share. Coffee and tea provided.
There is parking under the complex. Entrance from Fabian St. Plenty of Parking on Charleston 5 min away. There in entrance to the theater close to Charleston. The theater is called "Cultural Arts Hall"
$15
Palo Alto JCC Theater
3921 Fabian Way
Oshman Family JCC
Taube Koret Campus
3921 Fabian Way
Palo Alto, CA 94303
Dance Party on March 6, Sunday
at the Palo Alto JCC Theatre
Wonderful fun party with live music and improvised performances !
Welcome to our Argentine Tango classes !
On Monday, at Samovar at 7:30 we have a class called "Social Tango". It is not quite a beginner's class in the usual understanding of this word. Many advanced topics are slightly introduced so that dancers of all levels find it useful. For example, last Monday we were learning Milonga ! For men, the material which is presented here is enough to become a popular dancer in San Francisco Bay Area. You only have to work on quality. But women have to know more..
The second class at 8:30, "Intro to advanced level" trains dancers how to move like in Tango. Knowing some figures is very far from being able to dance well. Training is required, and that is what the second class is about. Since Igor Polk is the master of all tango styles, the material presented is guaranteed to contain only the most important and truly important topics, so that the material you learn is the most optimized for the money and time you spent.
One of the most important aspects of learning tango is to practice with each other and to dance with a master. Here is your opportunity! Igor Polk is dancing at the practica from 9:45 to 12:00 and longer if needed. Men and women alike, leading and following. Per hour of a lesson, you should have 2-3 hours of practice.
There is a myth in tango community that a man should know much more than a woman. This myth is originated from the difficulties which men meet at first. It is true, for men it is kind of, three times more difficult to start dancing. But does it imply that for women it is simple ? Absolutely not! After men have learned how to lead ok, they are free to dance with anyone they want ! But women can not do it. In order to have good dance they have to adopt to a variety of styles and personalities of men. It means they have to know much much more than men, and dance much much better. So, use this opportunity to learn from a master who knows all the styles and danced with many best dancers, energetic and seductive, slim and plum, nuevo, milonguero, or salon. Igor Polk surely knows what you need. Come and practice, it is only $5 an evening !
Why Igor Polk?
The answer is simple. Because, Igor knows how to dance tango. He knows it from all sides and from inside out. And which is the most important, Igor developed a complete system of argentine tango. Systematic approach is the key to success in every single activity of human kind. From Egyptian pharaohs to modern software development the systematic approach grants confident victory. Welcome, and be sure that every move you learn is a milestone in your direct path to success on the dance floor. You will meet this move many times in your tango life with many variations and every move serves as a gateway to others, and together they fit as a puzzle in a wonderful picture of the tango dance, social success, and satisfaction accompanying it.
On Wednesday, the 2 hour workshop is a relaxing immersion into tango in the wonderful Yoga room at JCC at 8:00. Here we have a little more time to cover a topic completely. This class is planned to become an advanced class, but for now it is perfect for all levels, and we have a friendly teem of dancers there. Very nice class !
On Thursday at 8:30 at Fantasy Dance the class is different. We often have visiting students, so Igor has to find the language suitable for those who might study with somewhere else. It is difficult, since these people mostly have vague idea of Tango rhythm, structure, feel, purpose, energy and movement. So the class is called "Tango Secrets for those who dance". For us, it is a review class, but often with introduction of the fantasy, fancy, fun movements. The quality of the practica and music afterwards is close to milonga party. Igor welcomes dancers from outside, especially those who value quality dancing - nuevo and milonguero dancers. And guess what ? Igor Polk is practicing with students ! Another way of spending hours of learning with a master. People stay longer here, usually we finish at 12:30.
So, here is my little letter to you,
Happy tangoing !
Igor Polk
Jorge Nel & his wife workshop + tango shoes
This coming Monday, March 15, 2010,
One of the best tango choreographers and performers, Jorge Nel and his wife Milena will give a workshop at our Samovar place.
Also Jorge is selling dance shoes of his own design. They are good, comfortable, reliable ( my best shoes ), not expensive. Half of all tango dancers in US are wearing these shoes.
The topic of the workshop I chose: "Artistism in tango". This is not quite what most teachers teach, and even not what Jorge himself often teach, his specialty is Milonga of which he teaches 3 styles: Traspie, Canyengue, and Lisa. But I can not miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best world choreographers and most fun performers of the dance. I convince Jorge to present you, whatever level you are, to show you how to impress you friends and yourself with artistic side of your dance.
I am not sure if Jorge will teach beginner's class from 7:30 to 8:30, we will see. If not, I'll teach it.
By the way, he is teaching Milonga this Saturday at the Nora's milonga in Emeryville.
So,
8:30-8:45 - "shoes on sale"
8:45 - 10:15 - The workshop "Artistism in tango", Jorge and his beautiful wife Milena.
$25.
Practica till 12.
Please, pay attention: price of the workshop is $25 ! Please, bring cash.Flyer
BIG Tango party on Feb 28 !!!
Brigitta Winkler workshops Feb 9, 10
Brigitta Winkler workshops Feb 9, 10
Brigitta Winkler is nationally renown tango teacher teaching tango for about 25 years. She was one of the very first Europeans to learn tango in modern times. She is one of the first Igor's teachers. Brigitta teaches regularly in New York, Berlin, and most of her time she spends travelling and teaching at the best tango festivals world-wide. She has visited us in the past. Here are the photos from the Brigitta's tango workshop. Here is Tomás Howlin and Brigitta Winkler dance.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
8:00 to 10:00. Workshop “Exchange of lead and follow between a man and a woman”, All levels, $20
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
8:10 to 9:40. Workshop “How to show yourself as a good dancer at nationwide Tango Festivals”, All Levels, $20
+ 30 min practice.
Address:
Building A, Group Exercise Room
Jewish Community Center, Palo Alto,
3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto, CA 94303
More information: http://www.virtuar.com/jcc/
Holiday Party on 28th, Monday:
Tango Improvisation workshop at Tango Magdalena in Oakland by Igor
Mariano Bielak and Paula Gurini workshop at Samovar on Monday: 
How to get to the Monday location
Samovar photos:
Not far from REI
Corner of Independence and Leghorn.
Do you see the small doors left to the shop? Here it is ! Step in !
Teressa's Birthday Party, September 14
Since September 16, 2009 in accordance with our vote, our tango club is called Zina Tango Club in the honor of one of our founders Zina Vladimirski.
Joy's Birthday dance on August 24:
Here is Julia's birthday dance:
Here is our dancing:
Here our dance on Sunday, May 17, 2009:
Ernest Williams in Palo Alto:
Copyright Igor Polk !!! No use without permission.
Ernest already visited us last year: http://www.virtuar.com/tango/pics/2008/Ernest_Williams.html. His class was a lot of fun. Now he is visiting Bay Area again, and we have decided to give him an opportunity to present us his packed and joyful lessons. Here is the program:
Monday, May 11, 2009
7:30 - 8:30 - Beginners lesson ( Igor or Ernest ), $10
8:30 - 10:00 - "Canyengue", All levels. $20
10:00 - 11:30 - "Million Crosses of Tango", Advanced. $25: You never knew there were so many ways to do a cruzada
11:30 - Practica for survivors. Free.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
8:00 - 9:30 - "Milonga with the feel of Canyengue", All levels, $20;
9:30 - 11:00 - "The Many Various Vals rhythms", Advanced, $25
11:00 - Practica for survivors.
Tuesday May 12 Private lessons at Igor's Studio in Hayward
Thursday May 14 Private lessons at Igor's Studio in Hayward
Monday, March 30, 2009
7:30 - Fundamentals class, $10. 8-Count Basic . So called "8-Count-Basic" tango figure is the only one which has a "step count" everyone agrees upon. It is a must to know. Some people say it is just a teaching tool. But in reality it encompasses the whole tango. It has 3 parts: Salida, Resolution, and Going to Cross". It is not going to be an advanced class where we study enormous wealth of tango treasures hidden in this figure, but still, we put in lessons as much as we can: it should be danced well and we are going to dance it well !
8:30 - Progressing class, $10. Cross walk and the turn to the left on it. It is a simple and nice turn we have touched the basis of last time.
9:30 - Practica, $5, free for students.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
8:00 - 9:30 - Workshop. $15. Turn to the right in close embrace.
9:30 - Practica, $5, free for students.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Workshops with Alicia Pons accompanied by Robert Hauk !
Please, come to Alberto's. There will be no practica at Studio C this Sunday !
Monday, March 2, 2009
7:30 - Fundamentals class, $10. Alicia and Robert are teaching beginner's class !
8:30-10:00 - Workshop with Alicia Pons assisted by Robert Hauk, $25. The topic: "Movement. How we produce and transmit movement.
Flow of energy between dancing partners, and
between dancing partners and the dancing floor.
Exercises."
10:00 -Practica, $5, free for students.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
8:00-9:30 - Close Embrace Workshop with Alicia Pons. $25. The topic: "Tools for Creativity in Tango - 2 Stops & Suspension"
9:30 - Practica, $5, free for students.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
8:00 - Close Embrace Workshop. $15. The topic: "Elements and technique on the way to right turn" in close embrace.
9:30 - Practica, $5, free for students.
Sunday, February 22, 2009:
4:00- 6:00 - Tango practica at Studio C with Igor: "Dive into the sea of dancing !", $5
We have good time here and stay later. It is like a little friendly party.
Monday, February 23, 2009
7:30 - Fundamentals class, $10. "Milonga Basic, a class for everyone ! ".
8:30 - Progressing class, $10. Close embrace class !!!! The first close embrace class on Monday !
about 9:45 -Practica, $5, free for students.
Saturday, January 31, 2009:
New place for tango practica in Hayward:
from 5:30pm to 7:30 starting from January 17. $5.
It is in the new nice small ballroom in the downtown. If you are interested or know friends who live nearby please let us, and them know. There could be a class too.
Ballroom & Beyond
22540 Foothill Blvd
Hayward, CA 94541
www.ballroomandbeyond.com ( please, check the map ).
We are starting Holiday season. Isn't it exciting?
Sunday, December 21, 2008:
4:00- 6:00 - Pre-Holiday Practica at Studio C with Igor: "Dive into an ocean of dancing !", $5
We have good time here and stay later. It is like a little friendly party.
Monday, December 22, 2008
7:30 - Beginner's class: "Let us dance tango right now !", $10
8:30 - Progressing class: "Getting to be a master", $10
about 9:45 - Hanukkah party $5, free for students.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
8:00 - Close Embrace class. $10
9:00 - Christmas party. $5, free for students.
Sunday, December 28, 2008:
4:00- 6:00 - Holiday Practica at Studio C with Igor: "Dive into an ocean of dancing !", $5
We have good time here and stay later. It is like a little friendly party.
Monday, December 29, 2008
7:30 - Beginner's class: "Let us dance tango right now !", $Free
8:30 - Short Progressing class: "Getting to be a master", $Free ( only 30 minutes, good ones ! )
about 9:00 - Our Greatest Party ! 3-year anniversary of our Palo Alto JCC Tango Club ! $Free
Everyone is very welcome !!! Please, bring friends and food ( not as much as usual, please :) )
We'd like to see everyone who ever stepped on our floors.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
8:00 - Close Embrace class. $10
9:00 - New Year Celebration. $5, free for students. We are going to stay until they ask as out, meet the new 2009 year, and then we may go to some other place, providing there is one.. Most adventures ones are welcome to Igor's house in Hayward for morning tea. Bring sleeping bags, if you want. Igor has only 2 inflatable beds and 1 sofa.
Robert Hauk is here ! November 29 - December 1, 2008 ( on Thanksgiving )
By Igor's invitation, we have a guest teacher Robert Hauk. Following the very successful workshops in May robert will teach us his Milonguero Turns. Here is more information about Robert Hauk tango workshops. Robert is one of the best social tango teachers in America.
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
7:00 - Practica and advice from Igor. $Free.
7:30 - Introductory lessons to Close Embrace with Igor and Teressa. $10
8:30- 10:00 - Guest Teacher workshop: Jorge & Milena Nel. $20
Jorge Nel is a wonderful professional tango performer and choreographer, but he also sells dance shoes. He is going to bring us his collection. Also you can order custom-made shoes. His shoes are of good quality and not expensive. Many tango dancers in America wear them. Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZFvXgwXdos.
The former topic of the lesson was "Have fun with tango!" That is what Jorge is great at.
Jorge Nel website.
This workshop collected excellent remarks by the tango students. Here is the photoalbum of the tango event in Palo Alto.
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students
Monday, September 15, 2008 ( Open Embrace ):
Igor and Teressa's Birthday Party
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals class. Start here! $10
8:30- 9:30 - Progressing lesson with Igor and Teressa. Topic to be decided. $10
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students
We have Ruben "Milonga": 
Ruben will be with his partner. This is the third visit of Ruben Milonga to Palo Alto. The previous visits where hugely successful due to Ruben's crisp crystal clear teaching and the vast knowledge of various Tango styles including Apilado, Orillero, Canyengue, and Candombe: Ruben is a "dancing historian". Ruben's workshops always curry most useful material which advance students to new levels of dancing. Photo: www.virtuar.com/jcc/2007/Ruben_photo_20071121.htm
Here is the schedule:
Wednesday, September 10:
7:00 - Practica and advice from Igor. $Free.
7:30 - Introductory lessons to Close Embrace by Igor & Teressa. $10
8:30-10:00 - Workshop with Ruben "Turns: Orillero Style and Apilado Style".
( Review of turns to the left and to the right in open and close embrace).
Ruben is not in very good health, please, come to this workshop to get the knowledge of the master.
Free practica to follow. Cubberley Center Auditorium. $25 ($20 for Igor Polk's students).
Monday, August 18, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential fundamentals. $10
8:30 - Progressing class with Igor & Teressa. 8-count basic, advanced level ! $10
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
7:00 - Practica and advice from Igor. $Free.
7:30 - Introductory lessons to Close Embrace. $10
8:30- 9:30 - Advanced Close Embrace lesson with Igor and Teressa. Continuing with Milonga, third class. $10
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students
Monday, August 4, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential fundamentals. Topic to be defined. $10
8:30 - Progressing class. "Flavors of Boleos". $10
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
7:00 - Practica and advice from Igor. $Free.
7:30 - Introductory lessons to Close Embrace. Something about Boleos. $10
8:30- 9:30 - Advanced Close Embrace lesson with Igor and Teressa. Milonga, first class in a series. Slow and fast rhythm. How about Ocho Cortado done in Milonga? $10
Monday, July 28, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential fundamentals. "Orillero" Ocho Cortado. This is one of the figures taught by Ernest Williams on July 23. Come to review. $10 This lesson supposed to be last Monday, but we had 11 women and only one men. Unusual, isn't it :). So instead we did "Major elements of Tango" lesson.
8:30 - Progressing class. 3 major types of Ocho Cortado: Salon, Orillero, and Compact Apilado styles. If you do not know what is Ocho Cortado, please come to 7:30 class. $10
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
7:00 - Practica and advice from Igor. $Free.
7:30 - Introductory lessons to Close Embrace. $10
8:30- 9:30 - Advanced Close Embrace lesson with Igor and Teressa: "Variations on Ocho Cortado in simple Canyengue style".
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
7:00 - Practica and advice from Igor. $Free.
7:30 - Introductory lessons to Close Embrace.Teacher Ernest Willimas. $10
8:30- 10:00 - Close Embrace workshop:"Canyengue for the crowded dance floor". $20 for members, $25 for non members
Ernest Williams and Maricela Wilson, workshop on Canyengue:
"Ernest Williams is the only dancer in US who knows how to perform Canyengue. It is his first visit to San Francisco Bay Area. So it should be historic. Invite your friends ! "
And it was. It was the best tango evening at JCC Tango Club !!! Wednesday with Ernest and Maricela at JCC Tango Club was incredible! Photos to come. In the evening on Sunday Igor will be DJ-ing at the Alberto's Milonga.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
4:00 - 6:00 pm. Tango practica at Studio C. Come and practice with Igor. $5
Monday, July 7, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential fundamentals. Forward Ocho Magic. $10
8:30 - Progressing class. It was a great class last time. Everyone did the left turn in a nice way! We are so grateful to you! Now we can continue with the right turn. $10
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
7:00 - Practica and advice from Igor. $Free.
7:30 - Introductory lessons to Close Embrace: going to Cross pattern. $10
8:30 - Close Embrace advanced class. Last time Slow-Slow Milonga was an interesting class. You might be shocked a little with rhythmical complexity of the dance, but that is the way it is. There is no other way to dance it. We will make Milonga classes regularly, hopefully once a month where we continue understanding unusual Milonga rhythm and practice suitable figures.
Now it is time to understand better the incredible Major Tango Rhythm... We will practice how this new understanding can influence familiar tango figures. $10
Dancing is movements to rhythms. Knowing the right rhythm of the dance makes the whole difference in abilities and mastery. We welcoming everyone to our classes where we discover to you the deepest secrets of real Argentine Tango rhythms.
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students
One more thing about Tango shoes
Nora's Tango Week is starting. By the way it is the best time and place to obtain Tango shoes. The selection which is usually present there is unbelievable.
Monday, June 30, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential fundamentals. Milonga basic step. $10
8:30 - Intermediate class. We will see how we can continue with the left turn we started to learn last time. $10
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
7:00 - Practica and advice from Igor. $Free.
7:30 - Introductory lessons to Close Embrace. $10
8:30 - Close Embrace advanced class. Milonga. Yes, we've got guts to do it. Slow-Slow milonga. $10
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students
Osvaldo Centeno y Ana Maria Schapira, Tango.
Alberto Dassieu and Elba Biscay, Tango Vals.
Monday, June 9, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential fundamentals. Class #3. Important material. $10
8:30 - Intermediate class. . $10
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
7:00 - Practica and advice from Igor. $Free.
7:30 - Introductory lesson to Close Embrace. $10
8:30 - Close Embrace advanced class. $10
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students
Sunday, June 15, 2008
4:00 - 6:00 pm. Tango practica at Studio C. $5
Saturday, May 24, 2008
2:00 pm. First 2 workshops with Robert Hauk on Tango Milonguero ( in close embrace ).
Alberto's Night Club, 736 W. Dana, Mountain View, CA 94041.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
3:0 pm. Second 2 workshops with Robert Hauk on Tango Milonguero ( in close embrace ) followed by a milonga. Alberto's Night Club, 736 W. Dana, Mountain View, CA 94041.
Monday, May 26, 2008 ( close embrace today)
7:30 - Extra class with Robert Hauk !!! "Preparation for the workshop". Everyone is most welcome ! $10.
8:30 - 5th workshop with Robert Hauk on Tango Milonguero ( in close embrace ). $25( $20 for members) .
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
7:00 - A bonus lesson by Robert Hauk !!!. $10.
8:00 - 6th workshop with Robert Hauk on Tango Milonguero ( in close embrace ). $25( $20 for members)
about 9:30 - 10 - Practica. $5, free for students
The location has changed !!! It is in the studio H6 in the builiding H ( on the right side, see the map below)
Igor has invited
Robert Hauk, a milonguero
Photo Igor Polk (C)2007 Any unauthorized use of this photo including linking to this image is strictly prohibited.
to conduct for us
a series of workshops on
Close Embrace Milonguero style of Tango
Robert Hauk is one of the most prominent and highly regarded Tango teachers, dancers, and DJs in North America. For many years he teaches and promotes Milonguero style of Tango which is most close to the way Tango is danced in Buenos Aires nowadays and in the past. For the first time Robert is invited to San Francisco Bay Area to teach us a series of 6 workshops covering most important topics of the Milonguero style.
We highly recommend everyone to take all the workshops! It is only $130
For more information, click on the link, or go to
http://www.virtuar.com/jcc/2008/robert.htm
Sunday, May 18, 2008
2:30 pm Tango group performance - close view.
Monday, May 19, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson #2. $10. ( Last time we did a lesson for ladies )
8:30 - Moving forward with Tango rhythm. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members. $10.
8:00 - Close Embrace class. $10 Turn to the right in Apilado: the second lesson.
about 9:15 - Practica. $5, free for students
Sunday, May 11, 2008
4:00 - 6:00 pm at Studio C ( see the map) - Tango Practica! $Free. Everyone is welcome.
Monday, May 12, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson #2. $10.
8:30 - Show Tango. How to perform Tango. Very simple things we already know made for stage. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members. $10.
8:00 - Close Embrace class. $10 We are going to address the dance as a whole.
about 9:15 - Practica. $5, free for students
Some notes about private classes with Igor
As you see we put all our effort to give you all the tango secrets we know. But often it is not enough. Everyone is special and to address individual needs at least one private class in several month is very helpful. Igor can help you with this - at his new dancing studio in Hayward, or at the place of your choice. Price is $50/hour/ per couple in Hayward, $60 in any other place. Plus - for men - count your lessons - every 8 weeks of group lessons entitles you for 1 free private class at Hayward. Ladies - not everyone of you used the New Year gift - 1 free private class - hurry up: a new year is coming and this gift is not transferable.
Monday, May 5, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson #1. You are welcome! $10. This lesson is enough to start dancing tango.
8:30 - Progressing Class. We are going to continue with Giro Caminado to the right. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members. $10.
8:00 - Close Embrace class. $10
about 9:15 - Practica. $5, free for students
Some notes about private classes with Igor
As you see we put all our effort to give you all the tango secrets we know. But often it is not enough. Everyone is special and to address individual needs at least one private class in several month is very helpful. Igor can help you with this - at his new dancing studio in Hayward, or at the place of your choice. Price is $50/hour/ per couple in Hayward, $60 in any other place. Plus - for men - count your lessons - every 8 weeks of group lessons entitles you for 1 free private class at Hayward. Ladies - not everyone of you used the New Year gift - 1 free private class - hurry up: a new year is coming and this gift is not transferable.
Monday, April 28, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson #12. You are welcome! $10.
8:30 - Progressing Class. We are going to continue in the country of Boleos and Ochos. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members. $10.
8:00 - Close Embrace class. $10
about 9:15 - Practica. $5, free for students
Some notes about our Monday classes
1. Our 1st Monday class - "Essential Fundamentals" contains simple but extremely important tango concepts we do not have time to go deep at the second lesson. These classes are designed in the series of 12 and contain everything you need to become the best tango dancers in SF. They are complex and designed to be taken repeatedly. At the lesson, one has to concentrate and do it the best. They are the basis of tango technique, feel, and musicality.
2. Our 2nd Monday class is designed right now for the average level of regular Monday students. It means very high. As high as possible. It usually contains simpler material at the beginning, but quickly we go into way more complex staff. We have students who come to our school for more than a year! They've already taken about 60-80 classes and are starting going to milongas (dance parties) ! That is to them we cater the lessons.
And we often review what was learned during several previous lessons. It may confuse a little some who missed the previous lessons, but you will come to speed coming to the lessons regularly. As you know, we consider new material very detailed and very deep.
Please, do not get discouraged. If you feel the material is above you - take a rest, watch. And ... do not forget to come to the next "essential fundamentals" class.
Yes, that is right, our students are starting going to dance parties ! And that is a special time. I know what you are going to meet there, and what you can expect. It rises the plank for us to give you the right material and advice: Igor is dancing at Milongas for 7 years. During his tango-life he took more than 1000 classes, and danced about 3000 hours on the dance floor with best dancers non-stop. Sometimes for 10 hours in a raw.
Monday, April 21, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson. You are welcome! $10.
8:30 - Progressing Class. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members. $10.
8:00 - Close Embrace class. $10
about 9:15 - Practica. $5, free for students
Monday, April 14, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson #10 including simple Ocho Cortado. Good warm up for the next lesson.
$10.
8:30 - Progressing Class. Starting from the turn to the right which we did last time - now - Boleo to the right. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members. $10. Very very useful ! Sometimes we are carried away into new elements there.
8:00 - Alison Hurwitz workshop for everyone, including the beginners. Please, come! ( $20 for club members, $25 regular )
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students
Alison Hurwitz
Position, Presentation and Poise for Great Dancing
A workshop for men and women. Advice from the pro:
Discover the power of centered movement, body alignment, shaping and connection.
Use simple techniques to transform your dancing and create new awareness in your body!
Read more
"..there is no mention of tango specifically, but describes a workshop on dance. How much will be tango specifically versus general dance techniques?"
Igor: "What about posture ?
Posture is the most important thing in Tango !
Everything Alison is going to teach relates to all dances. It is the basis of all.
Alison uniqueness is an amazing dancing charm.
I’d like people to get at least a tiny bit of it.
It makes the ordinary dancing a great one."
Igor: This was a fantastic lesson !!! The best we had so far with the invited guests !
Monday, April 7, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson. $10.
8:30 - We are going to continue into new frontiers from what we've learned last time. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Monday, March 31, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson: "Forward Ocho ". $10.
8:30 - This class will finalize the "Turn to the Left" series. We are going to connect the turn to the figures we know, entering it, and exiting it. As well as to perform turns in the line. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members. $10. Very very useful ! Sometimes we are curried away into new elements there.
8:00 - Close EmbraceClose Embrace. You know, mastery is in simplicity. How to dance nice on the dance floor. ( Yes, we know, simple does not mean easy nor simplistic ).
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students
Monday, March 31.
Dear dancers!
Tango Classes today:
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals class: forward Ochos. Welcome everyone.
8:30 - Continuing with left turns with the emphasis how to dance well..
9:45 - practica till late.
We have a very very nice and rare guest teacher on April 9, Wednesday ( the next one).
Just look at her!
http://www.virtuar.com/jcc/2008/alison.htm
Contrary to the most tango teacher, Alison a real professional dancer with the solid education in many sorts of dancing.
Please, tell all your tango friends about it:
Alison Hurwitz
Position, Presentation and Poise for Great Dancing
A workshop for men and women. Advice from the pro:
Discover the power of centered movement, body alignment, shaping and connection.
Use simple techniques to transform your dancing and create new awareness in your body!
Read more
"..there is no mention of tango specifically, but describes a workshop on dance. How much will be tango specifically versus general dance techniques?"
Igor: "What about posture ? Posture is the most important thing in Tango !
Everything Alison is going to teach relates to all dances. It is the basis of all.
Alison uniqueness is an amazing dancing charm.
I’d like people to get at least a tiny bit of it.
It makes the ordinary dancing a great one."
*************************
And videos.
Here is one of the most famous figure in tango history, Maria Nieves, former ( in 50s and 60s ) partner of Carlos Copes: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tm_Jpo6b1uw&feature=related
Pay most attention the way she walks to the partner at the very beginning of the dance!
She is 69 at this time.
Here is a little "homenaje" to another great dancer, Virulazo:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6KG-Ix8e1E
And here, we, Igor and Teressa, dancing at our past Tango Party:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDO2Z_r29Uw
Sunday, March 23, 2008
7PM Cubberley Auditorium, 4000 Middlefield Rd.
Big Tango Party
The program is held in Russian
for dedicated dancers, for beginners, and just for fans.
Wine, refreshments, history of tango, an introductory lesson, demonstrations, movie clips, songs, music, and dance. Party hosts: Elena Zusmanovich & Boris Vladimirsky.
Dance instructors Igor Polk & Teressa.
Tickets $30. For reservations, please call (650) 964-6838, Lola.
Video Page; Igor Polk and Teressa performing Tango ;
Monday, March 24, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson: "Milonga Basic". $10.
8:30 - This is going to be a 1.5 hours workshop. We are going to review 2 previous lessons about "Turn to the Left". Plus one more new figure! 8 figures overall. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members. Igor's improvisation on Luis Bianchi & Daniela Pucci workshop figure.( Including how to lead to overturned ochos) $10. ( If you took the workshop, but not a club member, you are welcome)
8:00 - Close Embrace class. As usual - very useful and exciting.
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students
Monday, March 31, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson: "Forward Ocho ". $10.
8:30 - This class will finalize the "Turn to the Left" series. We are going to connect the turn to the figures we know, entering it, and exiting it. As well as to perform turns in the line. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Monday, March 17, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson: "Back Ochos". $10.
8:30 - We are going to continue with the turn to the left, introducing some practical dance-floor-useful variations and reviewing of and getting new advice on the last lesson. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members. $10.
8:00 – 9:30 - Guest teachers, a young couple from South America Luis Bianchi & Daniela Pucci
WORKSHOP: Action & Reaction
(Igor have chosen this topic himself for us believing it is the best suitable one.)
Workshops $25 (includes practica), discount for JCC Tango Club members - $20
Here is the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiR5ZDm5phc
and these amazing dancers will dance for us soon!!!
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Luis Bianchi & Daniela Pucci also present 2 days of very advanced workshops at Alberto's this weekend ( before our Wednesday): http://www.espiritulibretango.blogspot.com/
* * * ( from the tango blog )
On March 19 we had a workshop "Action and Reaction" with Luis Bianchi & Daniela Pucci. That was a wonderful evening full with joy and excitement of Tango. Luis and Daniela are very deep, focused, thorough teachers and amazing improvisational performers. They explain the technique on the level very rarely reached by other teachers .Their YouTube video is in my list of the best tangos, but what I saw at Alberto's on Sunday, they performed three dances, supposed to be in the list of the best performance art ever. Bravo!
( photos to follow, come back! )
Monday, March 10, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson: Introduction to Cross System: "Cross Basic" with introduction to ochos. $10. If you forgot what Cross Basic is, it is highly recommended. As usual - for everyone.
8:30 - We came to the most complex of our lessons: 2 types of a classical turn to the left. $10. Let us check it out if we are ready for that. Mastering these two related figures will make you a king of the dance floor, gentlemen! And that will take time. Let us start !
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members. $10. ( Clarification: Who are the club members? The dancers who come to our classes regularly. We welcome you here, if you have heard about this class, but since we are elaborating on learned material, the attendance to Monday classes is highly valuable. Club members have some other advantages ).
8:00 - Classical left turn in close embrace is probably too difficult for us yet. So, we will find what to do having the goal of making you a king or a queen of the dance floor as soon as possible. $10.
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Monday, March 3, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson: "Amazing 8-count Basic". Nothing you've ever seen, a lot of material. $10.
8:30 - We are going to continue with the last lesson's figure. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members. $10.
8:00 - It turned out we have learned boleo at the last lesson. Now, we will come back to what adjustments we have to make to perform the last 4 Monday's figures in Close Embrace. $10.
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Monday, February 25, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson: a lot of material. $10. At this lesson we are going to learn and review 5 similar, simple, but very important and often used figures.
8:30 - A figure which is a mirror of what we practiced the last time will lead us to very unexpected resolutions. Some of the material from Diego and Angelina will be touched. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members. $10.
8:00 - What adjustments we have to make to perform the last 3 Monday's figures in Close Embrace.
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Monday, February 18, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Essential Fundamentals lesson: a lot of material. $10. It is a good idea to take our fundamental classes as many as you can. They are very complex now. Just taking the fundamentals classes it is possible to become a good dancer.
8:30 - We are going to continue diving into understanding tango fundamental structure on the example of a figure called in some places "Cambio de frente recto corto con pie derecho". $10. This is the same simple figure we learned the last time, only we will explore the left part of it ( we did the right ), and see what wonderful ideas we can come to!
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members, $10. As usual by your teachers Igor Polk & Teressa.
8:00 - We have a workshop today with wonderful professional dancers from Argentina Diego Escobar and Angie Staudinger. It is only $15 for club members! $25 for other people. These are beautiful and perfect stage dancers of Salon Argentine Tango. The topic is "Figuras lineales y con cambios de frente" which should be suitable for us.
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Big announcement : Count your lessons! Igor is going to give a free private lesson to any man who have taken 8 weeks of group classes. It can be repeated. Take advantage of this incredible offer !!! No one else in the whole world is doing it. And it is not going to last long.
Monday, February 11, 2008 ( open embrace )
7:30 - Beginner's lesson #1: "Very simple tango", but a lot of material. $10.
8:30 - We are going to continue diving into understanding tango fundamental structure on the example of a figure called in some places "Cambio de frente recto corto con pie derecho". $10. This is the same kind of figure Colette and Richard and Brigitta have taught. Only now it will be presented in Igor & Teressa's way.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members, $10.
8:00 - Close Embrace Apilado. Simple turns to the left, $10. Prerequisite: knowledge of "basic steps".
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
7:00 - A lesson for club members - answering questions, men's parts of Brigitta figures, $10.
8:00 - A lesson for everyone with the emphasis on the men's role in the dance, $10.
This lesson is for open as well as for close embrace dancers. For beginners too. Igor will talk ( and show ) about what is important to be a good man in a dance. Practical advice.
Brigitta Winkler is giving workshops and lessons at our club on January 30 and February 4, and at the Elks Lodge on February 3.
Also, after the Brigitta workshops:
Sunday, February 3, Palo Alto Elks Lodge, 4249 El Camino Real, Palo Alto
LAST TANGO @ THE ELKS ! 6:00 p.m. until way past 10:00 p.m.
MILONGA del Espiritu Libre
DJ: Bernhard Kohlhaas.
Performance by Brigitta Winkler & Homer Ladas about 9:00 p.m.
Hors d'ouevres, desserts & refreshments - hosted by Dorcas Hendershott.
Milonga $12, Stanford students $7 . BA Tango members $10.
Monday, January 28, 2008 ( open embrace, ( no “salon style” mark for this day ;) )
7:30 - "Traspie and suspended steps". Even though the lesson is marked for beginners, it covers most important fundamentals of tango: Traspie, tango rhythm, and special feeling of advanced salon dancing. $10. We very encourage everyone to take especially this class. Consider it as a preparation for the Brigitta's workshops.
8:30 - Understanding tango fundamental structure: Parallel (and Cross, if we are able to get there ) systems. $10.
It is an intermediate lesson: You will meet there cortes, traspies, quebradas, ochos, ganchos, changes of direction, and half-turns on the background of tango rhythm...
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008.... Brigitta is here !
7:00 - Tango
Advanced Level ~ What does it mean ? ( Intermediate/Advanced) $15 for everyone.
8:00 - 9:30 Musicality
& Connection 1 Connect Create Captivate. $25 ( For active members of the club - $20)
about 9:30 - Practica $5, free for students.
Active members of the club are those dancers who regularly take our classes during the last 2-3 moths.
=======================
We have a guest at our club:
Brigitta Winkler
Wednesday,
January 30
7:00 – 8:00 p.m. Class –
intermediate/advanced level $15
Tango
Advanced Level ~ What does it mean ?
8:00 – 9:30 p.m Workshop – intermediate/advanced level $25 ( $20 for the club members )
Musicality
& Connection 1 Connect Create Captivate
Free
Practica until 11:00 p.m
7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Class – all levels $10
Introduction
to Tango –not only for beginners
8:30 –
10:00 p.m Workshop - intermediate/advanced $25 ( $20 for the club members )
Musicality
& Connection 2 Dancing
Beyond Following
Free Practica until 11:00 p.m.
Brigitta is also giving workshops at the Elks Lodge on Sunday. See the flyer: http://www.virtuar.com/jcc/2008/Brigitt_07_Flyer2%20(2).htm
Brigitta Winkler is one of the most popular tango teachers and dancers in North America and Europe. She is exploring and teaching tango for more than 20 years. ( And she’s been our guest 1 year ago )
Monday, January 21, 2008 ( open embrace, salon style )
7:30 - "Side steps feeling the dance". Even though the lesson is marked for beginners, it covers most important fundamentals of tango: connection, lead & follow, rhythms, and dance feeling. And promises to be fun. $10. We very encourage everyone to take especially this class and the 7:30-class the next week. Consider it as the preparation for the Brigitta's workshops.
8:30 - Simple turn to the right: "Giro caminado a la derecha con sacada". It is always with sacada. $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Please, our beginner's classes are very important. You will not be able to make a shortcut avoiding them. On the contrary, solid knowledge of everything what is taught there is essential for the fast progress at the intermediate level. Toward real dancing ! If you haven't taken a class with the specified topic - take it!
I'll tell you a little more about it. It is not the amount of theory and number of figures you know what makes you be able to dance, but amount of time you spend moving and dancing. It has to go into your body, and it is a slow process. You have to work those hours. And the best what you can do - do it systematically under the guidance of a knowledgeable teacher and multitude of dance partners.
Your mind may tell you: "I've seen it already", but your body does not do it right ! You do not even notice it and may even blame your mistakes on your partners. A teacher at the appropriate level class will point you out to this saving you from hours and hours of frustration and broken dances.
It is our goal to make you happy introducing you to the wonderful and fulfilling world of tango dance, and how fast you are going to get there depends only on your dedication.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
7:00 - Pre-Advanced class for Monday students. $10.
Review of all styles of Ocho-Cortado: Salon, Orillero, and Apilado.
8:00 - " Giro caminado a la derecha con sacada" in Close Embrace Apilado. Simple right turn with sacada in leaning position. ( it is always with sacada ). $10.
about 9:30 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Note the price is $10 for each class.
Milonga at a NightClub with your hosts: Dorcas and Igor on January 20. Igor DJ-ed
The teachers are finalists of 2006 Buenos Aires World Tango Championship Colette Herbert & Richard Council. See the flyer for the photo and workshop info. "Oh, she is such a great Apilado dancer !" - Igor Polk
Photos to come..
Crazy Ocho-Cortado Week
Monday, January 14, 2008
7:30 - Orillero Ocho-Cortado for beginners. $10.
8:30 - Last week we have learned Ocho-Cortado in Salon style. Now let us learn what it means in Orillero style. Get ready for fun! $10.
about 9:45 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
7:00 - Pre-Advanced class for Monday students. $10. Note: this is not a beginner's class! We consider this class more advanced than the 8pm's one. This is for those who want to go beyond Intermediate class on Monday, review it, get more advanced knowledge, and practice important staff..
8:00 - Ocho Cortado in Close Embrace Apilado. Let us see where we can go from here. $10.
about 9:00 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Note the price is $10 for each class.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
7:00 - Pre-Advanced class for Monday students. $10. Note: this is not a beginner's class! We consider this class more advanced than the 8pm's one. This is for those who want to go beyond Intermediate class on Monday, review it, get more advanced knowledge, and practice important staff..
8:00 - Close Embrace Apilado. "Making Back Ochos in Apilado". $10.
about 9:00 - Practica. $5, free for students.
Monday, January 7, 2008
8:30 - Intermediate Lesson, “Intro to Ocho-Cortado, Salon style ”
Dear dancers:
First of all the offer stands: count your lessons, men! 8 group lessons – you get 1 free private lesson with Igor. And here is the New Year gift for women: 1 free private lesson with Igor. The offer stands for any women who took any group lesson in 2007.
December 31, Monday:
"Saying good buy to the old year" tango party for Palo Alto JCC Tango Club members and friends.
7:30 - no lessons! Practica ! Igor will play favorite tandas - come to dance and bring the food and drinks! $5 ( Including Champagne :) )
So far we plan to finish sometime around 10pm ( we do not have enough people yet to stay till 12. If you have some ideas – please, share ).
January 2, 2008, Wednesday
7:00pm - A class for Tango Club members $10
8:00pm - Close Embrace Apilado class $10
about 10:00pm - practica $5 ( free with a class )