Lessons Learned…. Once Bitten. Twice Shy.

I’m still shell shocked from my tango experiences of late. As a result I’ve become more cautious in my tango related pursuits. Whether it’s looking for instructors, practicing, taking classes, even purchasing shoes. I’m approaching tango with a level head, clear focus, and willingness to learn.

Here are a few lessons I learned over the last year.

Selecting a Privates Instructor

1. Reputation – Tangueros/as talk. All gossip isn’t true but ask around about the instructor. Watch them dance. Speak to their current (and former) students. If you were having someone work on your home you would ask for recommendations. You can do the same for your instructors.
2. Professionalism – Once you schedule an appointment with your instructor are they on time? Are they prepared for your lesson? Do they come with a plan for your hour or do they ‘wing it’? I can’t stress this enough. I had an instructor that was habitually late. At first it didn’t bother me. He would call and let me know he was running late. I justified it by saying, “what’s five minutes?” Then five minutes became 15 minutes, 18 minutes…. then it became insulting.
3. Methodology – How does your instructor teach you? Is it a laid out plan in advance or do they fly by the seat of their pants? How does your instructor mark your progress? Digressions? Areas of improvement? Do they suggest videos for you to watch? Books for you to read? Does their teaching methodology match they way you learn?
4. Carrot & Stick Balance – Does your instructor bathe you in praise or criticism? Too much of either one isn’t good.
5. Professional Boundaries – You may become friendly with your instructor but DO NOT forget this is a business arrangement. Speak up when you experience something that you don’t like. It’s your money & time - - ask for what you want.

Shoes

1. Bright & Shiny – I LOVE beautiful shoes. I really do but don’t let the ‘bright & shiny' shoes distract you from selecting quality shoes you can dance (and walk) well in.
2. Fit – I have a large foot - - pure & simple. For 2010 my shoe resolution is to no longer force my foot into shoes and have them stretched to fit. Not only is your dancing effected by ill-fitting shoes your feet will suffer as well. Take the time and try on as many shoes as possible. Have them custom made in order to get the best fit possible.
3. Variety – Have a few pairs of shoes in your tango rotation. It will keep your feet from developing ‘pressure points’ from wearing the same shoes over, and over, and over again. Rotating shoes will also extend the life of your footwear.
4. Learn How to ‘Speak Shoe” – When you meet a shoe distributor know what you like - - heel height, style, fabric, sole, and cut. Do your research. It will save you money wasted on ill-fitted shoes and pain from breaking in shoes that don’t fit you properly.

Feel free to add any other 'pearls of tango wisdom' to the list.

Ciao,

Pantina