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The Role of the First Tanda
The Role of the First Tanda
Journey within a version of a song, journey within a tanda, journey within a milonga — but before any of that unfolds, the DJ takes their own journey to craft it all. How should you start the milonga? Is it really that important? The answer is: it depends — on many factors. Let me give you a few examples.
When I DJ at a local práctica, especially right after a beginner class, it’s appropriate to open the evening with something simple and accessible. For example, early Canaro works beautifully:
However, if the night follows an advanced class, you can afford to start with something more energetic, like:
If you’re DJing at a local milonga or marathon, and you know the first hour will be relatively quiet, you may choose to open with a more melodic, gentle tanda, such as:
Or perhaps something a little spicier to stir curiosity:
But sometimes, magic happens when you break the pattern.
One night in Rome, I went to a local milonga held in an old cinema. A black-and-white film flickered on a cloth screen. A young woman arrived, turned the chairs, set up a boombox — and without hesitation, launched the night with:
Within minutes, the floor was packed. She likely knew that dancers tend to arrive early at her milonga — or perhaps she was simply so good that no one wanted to miss a moment of her set. Either way, knowing your crowd, understanding their preferences, and thoughtfully arranging tandas and their timing within the night are all crucial for a successful milonga. Bottom line, stay ready to adjust — whether gradually or boldly — to create the right atmosphere from the very first tanda.
In the end, the role of the first tanda is more than just filling time — it’s about setting the tone, inviting dancers onto the floor, and opening the door to an unforgettable night. As DJs, the journey starts with us, but it comes alive through the dancers who step into the music we offer.
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