The Word Tango
The word “Tango” has an African origin. It means closed meeting place. It also imitates the beat of percussion.
Origins of Tango
A belief of tango origin is the evolution from a dance called “candombe”. This style is danced solo and seen in 1770 in Africa by slaves. Imitated and made fun of this style later evolved to be the tango. There are numerous beliefs around the African origins of tango.
The Tango as we know it today
Cuban origins: 1870 seen in the suburbs of Buenos Aries, Argentina. Cuban sailors introduced the “habanera” a slow 2/4-time dance. Gauchos sang this new style and soon became recognized as the Milonga.
Spanish origins: Mid 19th century Spanish theatres introduced the “Andalusian” tango, a cheerful lighthearted tango.
Italian origins: Italian music introduced a distinct element of melancholy to the tango.
French influence: 1913/1914 the Tango travelled to Paris where it was transformed into a craze, with close contact and romance being very popular. The effect of Paris on the tango is dramatically seen in the fashion. The success of tango in Paris made it an acceptable dance in Argentina (before this it was an underground style danced in Brothels and not looked at as prestigious).
In America: Between 1912/1914 Vernon & Irene Castle introduced Tango to the US.
Tango Music
Tango music are commonly played by the orchestra with violin & clarinet or flute, violin & clarinet. Bandoneon is normally added to create a distinct sadder, nostalgic tango sound. Around 1870, German and Italian emigrants and sailors brought the instrument to Argentina, where it was adopted into the nascent genre of tango music, a descendant of the earlier milonga. In 1916 first tango Quintets appeared, which includes piano, two violins, bandoneon and flute.
Reference: The Tango by Mónica Hoss de le Comte. Editorial, Maizal
