Level 2 Nov - Dec 2026

Level 2 Course Dates:

6 Wednesdays: Nov 4, 11, 18 |Dec 2, 9. 16

(No class on Nov 25)

Lesson 1: 4 November

We introduced the Giro :

There are many variations of Giros.  This variation is to the Leader's right and entered after the Parallel Cross. The optional ending chosen for this move is the Forward Ocho to the Leader's Right.

About the Giro

The Giro (turn) is one of the core building blocks in Argentine tango, and once it clicks, it opens up a huge amount of the dance. Giro means "turn" in Spanish. It's a figure where one partner (traditionally the follower, though either can do it) walks a circular pattern around the other partner, who acts as the axis or pivot point in the center. The Giro is a 360-degree turn. 

The basic step pattern

The follower's steps around the leader typically go in this repeating sequence:

• Front step (crossing in front)

• Side step

• Back step (crossing behind)

• Side step

Why it's called "giro" and the role of each dancer

The leader (pivoting partner) usually stays mostly in place, rotating on their own axis, and leads the circular motion — like the hub of a wheel.

The follower walks the circle around them — like the rim of the wheel.

This is why giros are often taught with the image of a clock: the leader is the centre, and the follower moves around the clock face, stepping to 12, 3, 6, 9 (or wherever the leader directs).

Key elements to focus on:

1. Pivots, not just steps

Every step in the giro involves a pivot — you turn your body (chest/hips) to face the new direction before or as you step. It's not just walking in a circle; it's a series of small rotations connected by steps.

2. Crossing system

When stepping forward around the circle, your feet cross in front.

When stepping backward around the circle, your feet cross behind.

The side steps in between don't cross.

3. Independence of upper and lower body ('dissociation')

Your torso stays oriented toward your partner (or turns smoothly), while your legs do the more dramatic crossing work underneath. This disassociation is what makes the turn look smooth rather than robotic.

Tango Music - for practicing 

Check out Sophia's Spotify lists:

Tango (Trad) Best for practicing musicality - walking to single, double and half time.

Tango (Neo) contemporary songs (good for practicing technique)

Good habits for tango dancers

• 'Steel vs spaghetti': Your standing leg is like steel - dynamic, strong and grounded, your free leg is like spaghetti: light and loose without tension.

• Your free leg hip is loose and level (this removes tension from your free leg)

• Never lock your knees: Your standing leg knee is softly flexed (not locked) - this gives you better contact with the floor.

• 'Collection' - Thigh or ankle (as you prefer) connection as you walk

• Push off the floor as you walk - to make your walk more dynamic.

• Look forward as you walk (down diagonal is fine but don't look straight down at your feet as this distorts your posture.