Tango Music

Tango music is popular throughout most of the world. Traditionally, tango music is played by a sextet, and may include vocals or be purely instrumental. A distinguishing characteristic of tango music is the obvious absence of drums. Instead of using drums, the orchestra keeps the beat on either a bass or the lower keys of a piano.

Tango music can be divided into three main rhythms: classic tango, vals (a tango beat similar to a waltz), and milonga (a faster-paced beat with quicker steps). Each of these rhythms are typically played at milongas, or tango dance parties. While many of the basic tango steps can be used in all three rhythms, certain steps are more appropriate than others, depending on the music. If you are a beginner, you'll probably find that tango music from the 1940's and 1950's (the Golden Age of tango) is best for learning basic steps and rhythm patterns.