The Improvisation Toolbox. Nothing Basic about the Basic

From Sara and Ivan's perspective, improvising is mastering the rules and breaking the rules. This collection is interconnected to all the other ones. It is the guide to creativity and the connection between the elements, and techniques you already know and those you’re about to (re)discover. Enjoy the ride!

 

Recommended study time for this collection is 3 weeks.

A Guide on how to Enjoy our Lessons Better

Watch this video before starting your learning. Ivan and Sara's lessons program is a well put together whole, comprised of all the collections you'll find on Tangomeet. For best results, we strongly recommend you don't skip collections or lessons. Buckle up! Enjoy this marvelous ride! And get ready to wow your past, present and future dance partners :)

5.44 min Technique

Combining Elements: Parada, Donut, Barrida

By using the elements we have learned in the simple geometries section and our understanding of the cross and parallel systems, we can already begin to make our own steps. In this video, Sara and Ivan show you how to use transitions to combine different elements together smoothly and elegantly.

9.32 min Elements Barrida Technique

Combining Elements: Sacada, Ochos, Parada

By using the elements we have learned in the simple geometries section and our understanding of the cross and parallel systems, we can already begin to make our own steps. In this video, Sara and Ivan show you how to use transitions to combine different elements together smoothly and elegantly.

7.39 min Sacada Ocho Elements Technique

Combining Elements: Ocho, Donut, Sacada

By using the elements we have learned in the simple geometries section and our understanding of the cross and parallel systems, we can already begin to make our own steps. In this video, Sara and Ivan show you how to use transitions to combine different elements together smoothly and elegantly.

7.46 min Sacada Ocho Elements Technique

The Basic Step in the Cross and Parallel Systems

Ivan and Sara break down in detail how to lead and follow the basic step in both the cross and parallel systems. Not only will you understand the geometries necessary to lead a follower to cross and transfer weight, but also different options for creating this lead. This will help your improvisation skill and floor craft as you will more easily be able to shape the direction and timing of the movement.

17.13 min Elements Technique

Creativity and Improvisation using the Basic Step

Creativity and Improvisation Toolbox: Ivan and Sara show you how to work on your creativity and improvisation by breaking up the basic step in the parallel system, and then reassembling it. This exercise is an example of how you can deepen your understanding of the dance, and how to improve your social dancing skills. 

13.24 min Elements Technique Walk

Thinking outside the (Basic) Box

Using the basic step as a base, Sara and Ivan encourage you to think out of the box!

12.37 min Technique

Circles and Lines: Rounding the Basic

Ever have that experience where you learned a certain movement in a class, but then for space reasons, could never quite do it in a milonga? In this video Ivan and Sara curve the basic step to show you how to think about making a linear movement into a circular one. 

12.39 min Technique Walk