Practicas

To understand the difference between a "Milonga" and a "Practica", we have borrowed the following explanation from Tango Argentino de Tejas:

A milonga is an Argentine Tango social dance. The dance music will consist of tango, vals and milonga. Each is a different dance form within the family of Argentine tango. The music is typically played in tandas (sets) with three or four songs per tanda. By custom, the music within a given tanda will be of the same genre. Between tandas, there are short interludes of non-tango music known as cortinas. The cortina is a customary time to change partners.

A practica is an informal event where one can practice how to dance at a milonga. The floorcraft and music protocols for practicas are relaxed. Specifically, it is okay to impede the flow along the line of dance within reason to work on a particular movement. It is also okay to stop and discuss what is and isn't working—to the limits your partner accepts. In addition, the music probably won't be played in tandas with cortinas.

Practicas provide invaluable opportunities to apply what you've learned in classes and workshops and to enhance your enjoyment of dancing at milongas. Whether working on your own, exchanging advice and questions with other dancers, or taking advantage of the instructors who are present and available, the practica is where you have the time and space to refine your techniques, try new ones and generally expand your abiility.

Listen to tango music HERE.