Getting Started

Argentine Tango is an improvisational style of partner dancing that began in Argentina in the late 1800s and has since become increasingly popular around the world. Tango communities exist in many cities and towns across the United States and internationally. Dancing tango starts with learning to walk and connect with your partner and to the music. As you advance in tango, you’ll learn steps, technique, balance, and body mechanics to improve your movements and the embrace between you and your partner.

To get started in the Missoula tango community, attend classes. Beginning classes are offered on Monday and Thursday evenings and before our monthly milongas on the second Saturday of the month. Some classes are offered as part of a 6-week series, and it is recommended that you start at the beginning and complete the entire series in sequence. Once you’ve started attending beginning classes, continuing classes and weekly practicas–facilitated learning spaces–help you practice and hone your skills.

Tango Missoula Getting Started
Tango Missoula Getting Started
Tango Missoula Getting Started

After just one lesson you’re ready to dance at one of our monthly milongas. Milongas are social dances where music and refreshments are provided. As part of etiquette at milongas (Download the PDF), dancers often dance with different partners throughout the night as well as socialize with others in the tango community. Some dancers dress up or wear fancy tango shoes.

Multiple times each year, Tango Missoula and other community organizers host larger weekend tango workshops with visiting instructors and dancers from other cities and states. These workshops typically offer a series of classes packed into a weekend, milongas every night, and bbqs or other social events.

Intrigued about our community? Check out our schedule of classes and events.