Argentine Tango Syllabus: Section C: Lead and Follow
(See the Syllabus page for a list of the other topics in the syllabus.)
C1: Connection
- The lead is an indication of the leader's intention, or a gentle guide (done as an invitation)
- The Follower receives the lead (intention) and does the movement with (or guided by) the leader.
- Project your energy towards each other at all times, make your presence felt
- Use the core muscles to twist from the waist in order to keep the... upper torsos opposite one another
C2: The Leader's Role
The leader should:
- Give clear, smooth, & gentle leads, (with a minimum of force), that do not disrupt your partner's balance
- Lead from the centre (the chest, shoulders and arms should move in unison, not independently)
- Communicate on which beat(s) the step(s) should be done
- Be aware which leg is the follower's non-weight bearing leg and is therefore free for movement
- Maintaining the comfort and safety of the follower
- Fix / Recover from any mistakes (whether they are yours or the followers)
- Embellish as you see fit (as long as they fit with the steps that you lead)
C3: The Follower's Role
The follower should:
- Do the steps that are led, in the rhythm that is led
- Aim to stay in front of the leader's chest
- Take consistent / predictable steps
- Keep track of which foot your weight is on (you don't worry about leader's feet or weight)
- Only change weight when led to do so, (it's not always when he steps).
- Maintain your balance and stay on your axis (unless led off it)
- Embellish (or adorn) as you see fit (as long as they fit with the steps that are led)