Episode 6

In our last episode, we explored different tango styles. Today, let’s dive into the magical world of tango valses—a style that blends elegance, fluidity, and rhythmic charm. Using Orquesta Típica Victor’s vals recordings as an example, I’ll take you through different moods and styles that you can use to craft the perfect tanda:  

• Slow and cozy:  some valses create an atmosphere ofwarmth and intimacy, perfect for a relaxed embrace.  𝑬𝒏𝒔𝒖𝒆𝒏𝒐 (1927) 

• Viennese infuelnce: early valses had astrong European, Viennese waltz influence. At a time it was popular but nowadays we do not usually dance this style. 𝑫𝒆𝒃é𝒔 𝒓𝒆í𝒓 (1929)

• The Shift from Vienna to Argentina:  as tango evolved, vals started incorporating more Argentine phrasingand a deeper bandoneon presence, giving it a distinct local flavor and enjoyable experience on dance floor Vecinita gentil (1928)

• Major Key Valses: valses in a major key often feel uplifting, elegant, and bright:  Tres jolie (1932)

• From Minor to Major: other valses start with  melancholy (minor key) and shift into brightness (major key):  Sin Amparo (1932) Will you play them within your tanda, it is your call.

• Danceable & Uplifting: valses with  clear rhythm and joyful melodies are perfect for dancers who love flowing movements.  Amor y celos (1933)

• A Hidden Gem with Bandoneon Overflows: a vals with a slow, delicate start, building into rich bandoneon textures — a  rare treasure. Amor Cobarde (1933) 

• Interrupted Theme:  some valses break traditional melodic patterns, creating an engaging and unpredictable listening experience.  Sonata (1937)

• The Golden Standard for All Dancers:  this vals is balanced, structured, and dance-friendly, making it a  favorite for milongas worldwide.  Sin Rumbo Fijo (1938)

• Increasing Tempo, More Energy: as we move into the 1940s, valses become faster and more rhythmically driven, adding momentum to the dance.  Íntima (1940) 

• Better for Listening than Dancing: some valses are so beautifully arranged and harmonically rich that they shine as listening pieces rather than dance tracks. Quién Sera (1940)

𝑭𝑰𝑵𝑨𝑳 𝑻𝑯𝑶𝑼𝑮𝑯𝑻𝑺  

𝑶𝒓𝒒𝒖𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒂 𝑻𝒊𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒂 𝑽𝒊𝒄𝒕𝒐𝒓 was a special in-house orquesta for RCA Victor recording company, and we can find a wide variety of styles, moods, and energies in its repertuar. This gives DJs the freedom to build tandas that perfectly fit the moment, the dancers, and the atmosphere.

#tango, #TangoArgentino, #tangodancer, #milonga, #milonguero, #tangodj