A Passion for Tango; A thoughtful, Provocative and Useful Guide to that Universal Body Language, Argentine Tango |
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David Turner
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Pages: 260 (Paperback)
ISBN: 0954708318
Pub: Dingley Press
Pub date: 2006-03-18
Amazon.co.uk Sales Rank: 130149
Reader Reviews:
Everything I need to know about tango, it's in there. (2/4 people found this helpful)
I am amazed at how Dr. Dave Turner managed to collect and present in his book such vast amount of information about tango, which sometimes can be subject to fantasy and even misunderstanding.
As tango dance instructor, especially non-Argentine born, I find this book is a valuable reference material. From origin of tango to the latest scoops of milonga (tango dance) scenes in Buenos Aires and from different styles of dance to variety of dance steps with detailed descriptions and clear illustrations, I can find everything I need to know in order to appreciate the complex and intriguing world of tango dance. Thank you.
Happy to be celebrating the second edition (7/7 people found this helpful)
When I first discovered David Turner's personal and passionate guide to Argentinian tango, I was a beginner of six months and described myself as 'still at the stage of apologising to my partner when I trip over his feet!".
I am now two years into my love affair with tango, and - while still occasionally needing to apologise! - have a much deeper understanding of the dance. Does that mean I think any less of David's book, just published in its second edition?
On the contrary. Now I not only appreciate, as I said eighteen months ago, that the book offers knowledge, teachings and insights suitable for beginners. I can also appreciate even more the depth that makes the book essential for experienced dancers. It is a cohesive and elegant critique of the dance, technically useful not only for revision but also for a deep understanding of why we do what we do when we dance.
The text is fast paced, quirky, humorous and always a good read. Knowledge is slipped in when you're not looking, among wonderful descriptions, inspiring comments, funny stories. But it's also moving - as emotional as is the tango ; it's a 'good read' as well as an instruction manual.
There are also now three new chapters - the one on David's recent visit to dance tango in Argentina contains not only advice on how to enjoy the dance experience, but tips on everything from food to street safety. The Tango Zen chapter - linking tango and buddhism, an unlikely combination but a fascinating one - has spurred me on to find out more about this variation on the central dance form.
And so David achieves the impossible - using words to teach what is a wordless activity. Bravo!
Warning - A Passion for Tango has addictive side-effects (5/5 people found this helpful)
This book speaks from one tango junkie to another.
Fearing it would be stuffed full of footprint floor plans and tortuous descriptions of dance figures,I was happily proven wrong.
What it is stuffed with, is loads of fascinating tango facts and fiction; energy and heartfelt passion for both the dance and the music; and a thoughtful explanation of Rodolfo Aguerrodi`s style of teaching, offering just enough technique to give anyone the freedom and independence to make this captivating dance their own.
Turner`s warm and friendly personality stands out throughout the book and his easy, anecdotal style of writing makes it a welcome support for the serious tango addict awaiting their next fix on a dancefloor. For those new to tango, be warned: reading this book may get you hooked: Gancho!
Really useful (4/4 people found this helpful)
I like this book a lot and I think it will be useful for me for years. This author, has brought an inquiring mind to tango and having asked a lot of questions has come up with an amazing amount of stuff. He is clearly addicted and must have spent loads of time on this book. You could read it from cover to cover but it probably works best as a reference boom to turn to after a class or when you find you have a problem with some move or another. David Turner writes well in an easy going and humorous style. I actually laughed out loud at times. Some of the descriptions of complex movements are hard to follow but the illustrations are very useful and if you concentrate, it pays off. I found myself thinking, 'Aha. Of course, now I get it' on so many occasions. I particularly liked the chapter on Connection and the one on Tango Zen, which made me more at ease with some things I had struggled with. I like the way he passes on what he has learned and is not afraid to say what he thinks about the way tango is taught.
Should come free with you first pair of dance shoes......... (5/5 people found this helpful)
Excellent book. Covers many elements of this magical dance. A must for anyone who has discovered or encountered 'the passion'!
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Categories
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Books -> Subjects -> Music, Stage & Screen -> Performing Arts -> Dance -> Bestsellers
Books -> Subjects -> Music, Stage & Screen -> Performing Arts -> Dance -> Tango
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