IXI Danza

Related to our studio

Q: How do you actually pronounce the “IXI” in “IXI Danza”?

After hearing many variations – some very creative, I might add, e.g. one-by-one, Easy-Danza, I-X-I, AI-XI, etc. – I thought it’s about time to provide a definitive answer.

The correct way is “IX” as in “ex”-cite, followed by “XI” as in ta- “xi”.

Q: In what language are the classes taught?

The classes are taught in English. However, we will make every effort to accommodate you.

Tango in general

Q: What is a Milonga?

The Spanish word Milonga has several meanings ranging from a type of music (written in 2/4 time) – and the dance associated with it – in the Tango family, the dance which preceded the Tango historically, or the dance salon where people go to dance tango.

As listed under IXI Danza’s social program, a Milonga means a Tango party, where people come together, socialise and make new friends and, of course, dance Tango! We may have special theme nights from time to time.

Q: I am a beginner. Are there any rules I need to be aware of before I attend my first Milonga?

There are no strict rules. However, there are certain social etiquettes which we request all patrons to observe at :ixidanza::

• Observe the “line of dance” (move anti-clockwise around the dance floor) while you are on the dance floor.
• While dancing, always be mindful of those you are sharing the dance floor with. This means common-sense things like modifying the size and speed of your steps according to the degree of crowdedness on the floor, avoid stepping backward since you can’t see where you are going, etc.
• If you are not dancing, show respect to those who are, by staying clear of the dance space.
• No teaching on the dance floor. If you really can’t say no to your best friends asking for some advice, we have a small pantry where you can discuss the latest steps/variations you have seen, etc. Better still, bring your friend to our Social Practica!
• Have fun, class is over!

Further reading:

• The Do’s and Don’ts of Inviting and Accepting, by Ney Melo
• Summary of the key “Milonga codes”

ps. You will not be quizzed on this!

Q: What is a Tea Dance?

This is slightly less “serious” event than a full Milonga, but is otherwise very similar. The Tea Dance is intended to provide some relaxation on Sunday afternoon before going back to work on Monday!

Q: What is a Practica and how is it different from a Milonga?

A practica is a practice session.

While you can just come along and treat this as a normal opportunity to dance, a practica provides an avenue for less experienced and beginning dancers to slowly build up their confidence before proceeding to a proper Milonga. For example, the previously stated guidelines of no “teaching”, discussing, or stopping, do not apply in this situation. Experiment and make mistakes. Our in-house instructors will be on hand to assist if necessary.

Q: I have also heard of a Practica with Guided Exercises before. What is that?

A guided practica differs from the Social Practica in that on any given night, the in-house instructor will propose a topic for participants to work on. This is less formal and structured than a class and usually involves more drills and exercises.

What is a “Tanguero”?

A Tanguero (feminine: Tanguera) is anyone who is very passionate about any part of Tango, such as its history, music, lyrics, etc. In Singapore this term is used almost exclusively to refer to anyone who dances Tango regularly.

Please let us know if you have more unanswered questions!