What's New

Monday

Bulletin Jan. 28, 2008

Direct from Buenos Aires and a world-wide teaching tour Hugo "Gato" Valdez and Andrea Monti return to Modesto for workshops
Eight Tuesdays in February & March, 2008.
Their focus will be musicality - The level will be intermediate.
Feb. 5-12 - Interpret different orchestras: beginning with Di Sarli - simple and slow beats, pauses, stops, embellishments, simple figures and turns; Navigation: line and lane of dance; Close and open embrace.
Feb. 12-19 - Interpret different orchestras: Di Sarli and D´Arienzo -
voleos, simple and double beats, syncopation and coordination in turns and double time steps, sacadas, combinations, embellishments in motion, navigation and connection.
Feb. 19-26 - Interpret different orchestras: D´Arienzo and Biaggi -
Changes of rhythm: musicality, footwork,barridas and simple ganchos, links and different resolutions; Close embrace, Changes of embrace.
Mar. 4 - Interpret Pugliese - Dancing the melody. Interpret silences and violins. Variations. Figures and musicality. Variation of embrace.
Mar. 11-18 - Tango and Vals (for intermediate level and up) Review on previous tango patterns, Interpretation and style. Introduction to Vals: cross system and double time. Changes of front.
Easy patterns for the social dance. Turns and musicality.
Mar. 25 - Vals (intermediate and up) Walks, displacements for vals,
turns and turns with syncopation. Alterations. Musicality. Open embrace and combinations
All classes 8-9:30 p.m. Private Lessons are available by arrangement with the instructor. To schedule email ModestoTango@gmail.com or call (209) 522-1571 Fee: $100/hour + $10 studio fee.
Teaching Philosophy: Gato and Andrea have developed through
many years of experience and work, a teaching method based on the
technique of posture, balance, axes, weight changes, rhythm and
especially on the tango walk, making emphasis on the interpretation
of the music, and on the expression of feelings when dancing.
Cost (per workshop/per person):
$30 - 1 or 2 Workshops
$27 - 3 or 4 Workshops
$25 - 5 or 6 Workshops
$22 - 7 or 8 Workshops

Modesto Fitness & Racquet Club, 200 Norwegian Av Modesto, CA
(Brigsmore to McHenry, Left on McHenry
Immediate Right on Norwegian)

So, in that same vein, the Video of the Week features Gato and Andrea summarizing lessons presented in their fall 2007 workshop series.
They will also be guest artists at our next milonga, scheduled for Friday, March 14 at Jacobs - Mark your calendars.

For our ongoing Saturday classes, Peter began his rotation with technique involved in Giros con Lapiz. This is very technical work and can make all the difference in execution and elegance of the move. Next Saturday he plans to focus on a full turn. Next Saturday, first of the month, will be another opportunity to pay a flat $40 for February.

CALENDAR FOR THE WEEK

MONDAY - Tonight. Jan. 28 & Feb. 4: Practica and social dancing at Jacobs,
2501 McHenry. A chance to work on moves learned in class and to get floor time.
No fee, but you are urged to order off the menu. We start about 8 p.m. An informal meeting; some come early to dine. We may dance to 10 p.m. See Monday at Jacobs.
SATURDAY (Feb. 2) - Classes at Modesto Fitness and Racquet Club with Peter teaching. 200 Norwegian, off McHenry.
11 a.m. Intermediate - Peter focusing on giros.
12:30 - Beginner - Intermediates encouraged to stay; no additional fee. A chance to perfect your technique. $12 a class per person. Introductory deals for newcomers offer nine beginner level classes for $75 (can only be used as the beginner level.)

Modesto Tango is a non-profit association of tango aficionados dedicated to sharing the artistic, cultural and social aspects of Argentine Tango in Stanislaus County. To discontinue this bulletin go to <http://groups.google.com/group/Modesto-Tango/subscribe>

OUT OF TOWN: Some expressed interest in these. To carpool call 522-1571.

TUESDAY:
Sacramento: At Tango by the River, 128 J. Street, Old Sacramento.
Level I at 6:30,
Level II at 7:30, and Level III at 8:30 p.m. Contact Donna at 916-443-7008 or
donna@rivertango.com for more info. http://www.rivertango.com

TUESDAY
Emeryville @ Allegro Ballroom : 5855 Christie Ave., Nora Dinzelbacher
7:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.: Beg Lev $12
8:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.: Int Lev $12
9:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m.: Practica $6 (Free with class) Ongoing -

THURSDAYS
Sacramento: at Tango by the River, 128 J Street, Old Sacramento ED AND REBECA teach "Tango: Outside the Box."
The cost for classes and practica is $50 per person/$90 per couple for the month; Drop-in rate is $15 . The practica alone is $5.
This class and práctica is for students with a broad range of levels, we recommend that students have specific clearance from Ed and Rebeca.
MILONGAS: Argentine Tango Social Dance
@>---- Our next Milonga will be Friday March 14 with Gato & Andrea as guest artists.
(Note this date is changed since the last announcement).

MILONGAS ELSEWHERE

FRESNO
@>---- Friday, February 8 - Studio 65 - 2965 N. Maroa, Fresno 93704
North of Clinton on Left past RR tracks.
8:30p.m "Be My Valentine" Colors of the night: Red, white, black

Buenos Aires Tango Tour with Gato and Andrea!
Time is running out to get in at the $1500 rate.

Trip specially for the Modesto Tango Group, July 12-24, 2008
( but registration open!)
Cost: $1500 per person without air fares if by Jan. 31st, 2008.
$1650 for people who register between February 1st and May 31st.

Departure date: July 11th, Arrival in Buenos Aires: July 12th

Departure from Buenos Aires: July 25th, Arrival in California: July 26th

How to register
1. Fill in the registration form, sent to each person who requests it by e-mail to us montitango@hotmail.com or andreaygato@gmail.com.ar in order to register.

2. The second step is the deposit to book the trip.
First period: $1500 per person without air fares
Deposit: $400 per person paid by bank deposit before January 31st, 2008.

2nd payment: $600 per person (cash) paid directly to Gato and Andrea while teaching in Modesto up to March 20th 2008 (receipt will be given)

3rd payment: $500 per person by bank deposit to Gato and Andrea to May 31st.

Second period (late registration): $1650 per person without air fares
Deposit: $650 per person (cash) directly to Gato and Andrea while teaching in Modesto from February to March 31st 2008 (receipt will be given).

Balance: $1000 per person paid by bank deposit to Gato and Andrea by May 31st.

More details at www.tour-tango.com.ar

The trip includes:

*Transfer from airport to hotel and from hotel to Ezeiza airport in private bus.

*13 nights accommodation in a Tango Guest House in San Telmo (La Casita de San Telmo) , including breakfast, double occupancy.
http://www.lacasitadesantelmo.com/english/casita.htm (the whole house for our group!).

*Welcome dinner in a typical local restaurant (all included)

*City Tour in private bus with bilingual guide (8 hours especially designed by us!).

*Walking tour in downtown and Plaza San Martin.

*8 private group tango workshops, one and a half hour each, milonguero
and salon styles (with excellent international well known teachers)

*12 dance nights at the best milongas and dance clubs (best tables booked by us at first line and ticket entrance included)

*Five stars Tango Dinner Show at Esquina Carlos Gardel, the best tango house theatre in BA (all included)

*A day in the country with "fiesta gaucha", "asado criollo", singing, dancing,"gaucho's show", country activities such as riding horses and much more!

*Sunday in San Telmo (visit Plaza Dorrego and experience San Telmo antique and arts and crafts fair)

*Guided visit to the marvelous and unique Teatro Colón & Visit to CaféTortoni

*Guided visit to Recoleta Cemetery and Del Pilar Church (with bilingual guide) +
Walking tour around Recoleta neighborhoods.

*Guided shopping day for tango shoes, clothes and souvenirs

*Guided shopping day for leather clothes.

*Last night farewell dinner at a nice local restaurant parrilla.

*24 hours personalized assistance

Contact Gato and Andrea directly andreaygato@gmail.com.ar ,

Visit our tour website to check other details:


Bulletin Jan. 21, 2008

Roberto Riobo's workshop was well received, many participants coming clear from Sacramento. A fixture in the northern California tango community, he will be sorely missed.
Our Video of the Week features Roberto and Michelle and Patrick Alessandri's summary of the lessons presented this month.
We switch gears starting in February, with Tuesday night workshops with Gato & Andrea who will also be guest artists at our next milonga. They will be doing eight weeks on musicality and emphasis on the styles of the different orchestras.

Patrick finished his rotation, to be followed up by Peter, a disciple of Roberto, who will be focusing on Giros con Lapiz at the intermediate level.


CALENDAR FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY - Tonight. Jan. 21 & 28: Practica and social dancing at Jacobs,
2501 McHenry. A chance to work on moves learned in class and to get floor time.
No fee, but you are urged to order off the menu. We start about 8 p.m. An informal meeting; some come early to dine. We may dance to 10 p.m. See Monday at Jacobs.
SATURDAY (Jan. 26) - Classes at Modesto Fitness and Racquet Club with Peter teaching. 200 Norwegian, off McHenry.
11 a.m. Intermediate -
12:30 - Beginner - Intermediates encouraged to stay; no additional fee. A chance to perfect your technique. $12 a class per person. Introductory deals for newcomers offer nine beginner level classes for $75 (can only be used as the beginner level.)

Modesto Tango is a non-profit association of tango aficionados dedicated to sharing the artistic, cultural and social aspects of Argentine Tango in Stanislaus County. To discontinue this bulletin go to <http://groups.google.com/group/Modesto-Tango/subscribe>

OUT OF TOWN: Some expressed interest in these. To carpool call 522-1571.

TUESDAY:
Sacramento: At Tango by the River, 128 J. Street, Old Sacramento.
Level I at 6:30,
Level II at 7:30, and Level III at 8:30 p.m. Contact Donna at 916-443-7008 or
donna@rivertango.com for more info. http://www.rivertango.com

TUESDAY
Emeryville @ Allegro Ballroom : 5855 Christie Ave., Nora Dinzelbacher
7:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.: Beg Lev $12
8:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.: Int Lev $12
9:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m.: Practica $6 (Free with class) Ongoing -

THURSDAYS
Sacramento: at Tango by the River, 128 J Street, Old Sacramento ED AND REBECA teach "Tango: Outside the Box."
The cost for classes and practica is $50 per person/$90 per couple for the month; Drop-in rate is $15 . The practica alone is $5.
This class and práctica is for students with a broad range of levels, we recommend that students have specific clearance from Ed and Rebeca.
MILONGAS: Argentine Tango Social Dance
@>---- Our next Milonga will be Friday March 14 with Gato & Andrea as guest artists.
(Note this date is changed since the last announcement.

MILONGAS ELSEWHERE

SACRAMENTO:
@>---- SATURDAY, JANUARY 26 atTango By the River,
128 J Street in Old Sacramento.
LIVE MUSIC WITH PARLOR TANGO!!!
Cost is $20 for lesson & dance; $15 for dance only.

FRESNO
@>---- Friday, February 8 - Studio 65 - 2965 N. Maroa, Fresno 93704
North of Clinton on Left past RR tracks.
8:30p.m "Be My Valentine" Colors of the night: Red, white, black

Buenos Aires Tango Tour with Gato and Andrea!

Time is running out to get in at the $1500 rate.

Special trip for Modesto Tango Group, July 12-24, 2008 (registration open!)
Cost: $1500 per person without air fares if by Jan. 31st, 2008.
$1650 for people who register between February 1st and May 31st.

Departure date: July 11th, Arrival in Buenos Aires: July 12th

Departure from Buenos Aires: July 25th, Arrival in California: July 26th

How to register
1. Fill in the registration form, sent to each person who requests it by e-mail to us montitango@hotmail.com or andreaygato@gmail.com.ar in order to register.

2. The second step is the deposit to book the trip.
First period: $1500 per person without air fares
Deposit: $400 per person paid by bank deposit before January 31st, 2008.

2nd payment: $600 per person (cash) paid directly to Gato and Andrea while teaching in Modesto up to March 20th 2008 (receipt will be given)

3rd payment: $500 per person by bank deposit to Gato and Andrea to May 31st.

Second period (late registration): $1650 per person without air fares
Deposit: $650 per person (cash) directly to Gato and Andrea while teaching in Modesto from February to March 31st 2008 (receipt will be given).

Balance: $1000 per person paid by bank deposit to Gato and Andrea by May 31st.

More details at www.tour-tango.com.ar

The trip includes:

*Transfer from airport to hotel and from hotel to Ezeiza airport in private bus.

*13 nights accommodation in a Tango Guest House in San Telmo (La Casita de San Telmo) , including breakfast, double occupancy.
http://www.lacasitadesantelmo.com/english/casita.htm (the whole house for our group!).

*Welcome dinner in a typical local restaurant (all included)

*City Tour in private bus with bilingual guide (8 hours especially designed by us!).

*Walking tour in downtown and Plaza San Martin.

*8 private group tango workshops, one and a half hour each, milonguero
and salon styles (with excellent international well known teachers)

*12 dance nights at the best milongas and dance clubs (best tables booked by us at first line and ticket entrance included)

*Five stars Tango Dinner Show at Esquina Carlos Gardel, the best tango house theatre in BA (all included)

*A day in the country with "fiesta gaucha", "asado criollo", singing, dancing,"gaucho's show", country activities such as riding horses and much more!

*Sunday in San Telmo (visit Plaza Dorrego and experience San Telmo antique and arts and crafts fair)

*Guided visit to the marvelous and unique Teatro Colón & Visit to CaféTortoni

*Guided visit to Recoleta Cemetery and Del Pilar Church (with bilingual guide) +
Walking tour around Recoleta neighborhoods.

*Guided shopping day for tango shoes, clothes and souvenirs

*Guided shopping day for leather clothes.

*Last night farewell dinner at a nice local restaurant parrilla.

*24 hours personalized assistance

Contact Gato and Andrea directly andreaygato@gmail.com.ar ,

Visit our tour website to check other details:


Roberto and Michelle 2008-01-20


Roberto Riobo and Michelle Loughlin demonstrate the concepts presented during their workshops January 20, 2008 at Modesto Tango Argentino.

Patrick Alessandri Lesson Summary 2008-01


Dancing with Laura Paull, a Modesto tanguera, Patrick demonstrates the concepts presented in January, 2008 at Modesto Tango Argentino.

Sunday

Workshops with Roberto Riobo



Roberto Riobo and Michelle Loughlin

will present Argentine Tango workshops
and private individual lessons in Modesto

  • For all levels including beginner;
  • Singles and couples welcome


Sunday
January 20, 2008



Roberto Riobo, a native of Buenos Aires, is known throughout Argentina, Northern California and Germany. He graduated in 1994 from the University of Tango in Buenos Aires, from which he brings a superb command of technique and musicality and a deep understanding of the culture and history of the dance. His passion for the art and sense of humor make learning tango fun and easy.

Michelle Loughlin, a Sacramento area native and lifelong dancer, has been studying tango since 1999 and was the principal dancer in the Sacramento-based Los Tangueros Dance Company. In 2002 she also met and began performing with Roberto Riobo, who she credits with taking her to “the next level of tango dance.”

11:00 p.m. - 12:15 p.m.

Musicality: Moving to the diverse rhythms of tango music
12:30 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.
Expressive techniques & communication between partners
2:00 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. I
Improvisation with tango steps and combinations.

Private Lessons
are available by arrangement with the instructor. To schedule send email to ModestoTango@gmail.com or call (209) 522-1571

Location: Map

Modesto Fitness & Racquet Club
200 Norwegian Ave
Modesto, CA
(Brigsmore to McHenry, Left on McHenry
Immediate Right on Norwegian)


Cost (per workshop/per person):


$25.00 - 1 Workshop
$40.00 - 2 Workshops
$50.00 - 3 Workshops
Couples (Leader and Follower) registering at the same time will receive a 10% discount

For additional information email Modesto Tango or
call (209) 522-1571

Saturday

Milonga with Roberto Riobo January 19, 2008

Canceled! Sorry, due to a scheduling conflict at the venue, this event has been canceled!!
Watch for our next milonga in March.

Argentine Tango

Social Dance

Featuring the popular instructor
from Buenos Aires

Roberto Riobo


6:30 p.m. - Doors open for Dinner
7:30 p.m. - Roberto and Michelle will teach an introductory class. This is a great opportunity to learn the basics of tango and to meet your fellow dancers.

8:30 p.m. - Midnight - Dancing to a great selection of traditional and new Argentine Tango Dance music provided by Roberto who is one of the most popular DJs in the Bay Area.




10:00 p.m.
- performance by Roberto and Michelle Loughlin. Bring your friends who are not dancers. They will love the performance.



Free parking at

Jacobs Fine Dining
2501 McHenry Av
Modesto, CA 95350
(209) 529-2829
Map

Jacobs is a full service restaurant and is available
for drinks, hors d'oeuvre, or dinner at your pleasure.



Cost:


Introductory Lesson and Milonga: $10.00

Milonga only; $5.00 Whether you come to dance or simply want to enjoy the dancing while you eat, this is a great opportunity to see a world class performance of Argentine Tango,

For Reservations call the restaurant.

For additional information email ModestoTango or call
(209) 522-1571



Monday

Bulletin Jan. 14, 2008

Thanks to Laura for interceding in our behalf at the Fat Cat concert. She spoke to Cuarteto Latinoamericano musicians and we actually got a couple of tangos at the end of their concert. Quite a few members of Modesto Tango were at the concert

Last Saturday Patrick worked on back sacadas, and will finish out his rotation on Saturday with a review of both the back sacadas and cadenas (chains)

The Video of the Week features Roberto and Michelle at our January 2007 milonga.
They will conduct workshops for all levels on Sunday in Roberto's farewell to the Northern California tango community before returning to Argentina. For years he has been a staple of the San Francisco tango scene; his approach to teaching made him a popular instructor. His departure will leave a big hole in that community

Argentine Tango Workshops with
Roberto Riobo assisted by Michelle Loughlin
Sunday, Jan. 20, 2008
Modesto Fitness and Raquet Club
200 Norwegian Avenue, Modesto
For all levels including beginner; Singles and couples welcome
Roberto Riobo, a native of Buenos Aires, is known throughout Argentina, Northern California and Germany. He graduated from the University of Tango in Buenos Aires, with a superb command of technique and musicality and a deep understanding of the culture and history of the dance. His passion and sense of humor make learning tango fun and easy. Michelle Loughlin, a Sacramento area native and lifelong dancer, was the principal dancer in the Sacramento-based Los Tangueros Dance Company. In 2002 she began performing with Riobo, whom she credits with taking her to "the next level of tango dance."
11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Musicality: Moving to the diverse rhythms of tango
12:30 - 1:45 p.m. Expressive techniques & communication between partners
2 - 3:15 p.m. Improvisation with tango steps and combinations.
WORKSHOPS IN THE MRC YOGA/EXCERCISE ROOM.
Cost: $25 for one workshop; $40 for two; only $50 for all three!
Couples registering together will receive a 10% discount.
For more info contact Mary at 522-1571 or email Modestotango@gmail.com


CALENDAR FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY - Tonight. Jan. 14 & 21: Practica and social dancing at Jacobs,
2501 McHenry. A chance to work on moves learned in class and to get floor time.
No fee, but you are urged to order off the menu. We start about 8 p.m. An informal meeting; some come early to dine. We may dance to 10 p.m. See Monday at Jacobs.
SATURDAY (Jan. 19) - Classes in Modesto with Patrick teaching.
Classes at Modesto Fitness and Racquet Club.
200 Norwegian, off McHenry.
11 a.m. Intermediate - Patrick will finish work on cadenas and back sacadas. .
12:30 - Beginner - Intermediates encouraged to stay; no additional fee. A chance to perfect your technique. $12 a class per person. Introductory deals for newcomers offer nine beginner level classes for $75 (can only be used as the beginner level.)

Modesto Tango is a non-profit association of tango aficionados dedicated to sharing the artistic, cultural and social aspects of Argentine Tango in Stanislaus County. To discontinue this bulletin go to <http://groups.google.com/group/Modesto-Tango/subscribe>

OUT OF TOWN: Some expressed interest in these. To carpool call 522-1571.

TUESDAY:
Sacramento: At Tango by the River, 128 J. Street, Old Sacramento.
Level I at 6:30,
Level II at 7:30, and Level III at 8:30 p.m. Contact Donna at 916-443-7008 or
donna@rivertango.com for more info. http://www.rivertango.com

TUESDAY
Emeryville @ Allegro Ballroom : 5855 Christie Ave., Nora Dinzelbacher
7:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.: Beg Lev $12
8:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.: Int Lev $12
9:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m.: Practica $6 (Free with class) Ongoing -

THURSDAYS
Sacramento: at Tango by the River, 128 J Street, Old Sacramento
ED AND REBECA teach "Tango: Outside the Box."
The cost for classes and practica is $50 per person/$90 per couple for the month; Drop-in rate is $15 . The practica alone is $5.
This class and práctica is for students with a broad range of levels, we recommend that students have specific clearance from Ed and Rebeca.
MILONGAS: Argentine Tango Social Dance
@>---- SATURDAY, JANUARY 19, 2008 - Cancelled!
Our next Milonga will be Friday, March 21, with Gato & Andrea as guest artists.

MILONGAS ELSEWHERE

SACRAMENTO:
@>----E SATURDAY, JANUARY 26 atTango By the River,
128 J Street in Old Sacramento.
LIVE MUSIC WITH PARLOR TANGO!!!
Cost is $20 for lesson & dance; $15 for dance only.


Buenos Aires Tango Tour with Gato and Andrea!

Time is running out to get in at the $1500 rate.

Special trip for Modesto Tango Group, July 12-24, 2008 (registration open!)
Cost: $1500 per person without air fares if by Jan. 31st, 2008.
$1650 for people who register between February 1st and May 31st.

Departure date: July 11th , Arrival in Buenos Aires: July 12th

Departure from Buenos Aires: July 25th, Arrival in California: July 26th

How to register
1. Fill in the registration form, sent to each person who requests it by e-mail to us montitango@hotmail.com or andreaygato@gmail.com.ar in order to register.

2. The second step is the deposit to book the trip.
First period: $1500 per person without air fares
Deposit: $400 per person paid by bank deposit before January 31st, 2008.

2nd payment: $600 per person (cash) paid directly to Gato and Andrea while teaching in Modesto up to March 20th 2008 (receipt will be given)

3rd payment: $500 per person by bank deposit to Gato and Andrea to May 31st.

Second period (late registration): $1650 per person without air fares
Deposit: $650 per person (cash) directly to Gato and Andrea while teaching in Modesto from February to March 31st 2008 (receipt will be given).

Balance: $1000 per person paid by bank deposit to Gato and Andrea by May 31st.

More details at www.tour-tango.com.ar

The trip includes:

*Transfer from airport to hotel and from hotel to Ezeiza airport in private bus.

*13 nights accommodation in a Tango Guest House in San Telmo (La Casita de San Telmo) , including breakfast, double occupancy.
http://www.lacasitadesantelmo.com/english/casita.htm (the whole house for our group!).

*Welcome dinner in a typical local restaurant (all included)

*City Tour in private bus with bilingual guide (8 hours especially designed by us!).

*Walking tour in downtown and Plaza San Martin.

*8 private group tango workshops, one and a half hour each, milonguero
and salon styles (with excellent international well known teachers)

*12 dance nights at the best milongas and dance clubs (best tables booked by us at first line and ticket entrance included)

*Five stars Tango Dinner Show at Esquina Carlos Gardel, the best tango house theatre in BA (all included)

*A day in the country with "fiesta gaucha", "asado criollo", singing, dancing,"gaucho's show", country activities such as riding horses and much more!

*Sunday in San Telmo (visit Plaza Dorrego and experience San Telmo antique and arts and crafts fair)

*Guided visit to the marvelous and unique Teatro Colón & Visit to CaféTortoni

*Guided visit to Recoleta Cemetery and Del Pilar Church (with bilingual guide) +
Walking tour around Recoleta neighborhoods.

*Guided shopping day for tango shoes, clothes and souvenirs

*Guided shopping day for leather clothes.

*Last night farewell dinner at a nice local restaurant parrilla.

*24 hours personalized assistance

Contact Gato and Andrea directly andreaygato@gmail.com.ar ,

Visit our tour website to check other details:


Bulletin Jan. 7, 2008

We must report is that our January milonga cancelled due to scheduling conflicts with our venue. Roberto Riobo, however, will still conduct workshops on Sunday, Jan. 20. More information below

Coming up on this Thursday, Jan. 10, 2008, at 8 p.m.:
LET'S TANGO! Cuarteto Latinoamericano, string quartet,
at Fat Cat Music House & Lounge - 11th Street between I & J
The Cuarteto Latinoamericano will play music from all over Latin America, including some tangos; we have been told tables will be set up with some space in front for dancing. See http://www.modestosymphony.org/jan1008.sj

Today's Video of the Week features a fun milonga, full of "traspies" performed at Salon Canning, one of the most popular milongas in Buenos Aires.
Though our Jan. 19 milonga is cancelled,
our Jan. 20 workshops with Roberto Riobo are still a go.
Argentine Tango Workshops with
Roberto Riobo assisted by Michelle Loughlin
Sunday, Jan. 20, 2008
Modesto Fitness and Raquet Club
200 Norwegian Avenue, Modesto
For all levels including beginner; Singles and couples welcome
Roberto Riobo, a native of Buenos Aires, is known throughout Argentina, Northern California and Germany. He graduated from the University of Tango in Buenos Aires, with a superb command of technique and musicality and a deep understanding of the culture and history of the dance. His passion and sense of humor make learning tango fun and easy.
Michelle Loughlin, a Sacramento area native and lifelong dancer,
was the principal dancer in the Sacramento-based Los Tangueros Dance Company.
In 2002 she began performing with Riobo, whom she credits with taking her to "the next level of tango dance."
11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Musicality: Moving to the diverse rhythms of tango music
12:30 - 1:45 p.m. Expressive techniques & communication between partners
2 - 3:15 p.m. Improvisation with tango steps and combinations.
WORKSHOPS TAKE PLACE IN THE YOGA/EXCERCISE ROOM OF MFRC.
Cost: $25 for one workshop; $40 for two; only $50 for all three!
Couples registering together will receive a 10% discount.
For more info contact Mary at 522-1571 or email Modestotango@gmail.com


CALENDAR FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY - Tonight. Jan. 7 & 14: We resume practice and social dancing at Jacobs, 2501 McHenry. A chance to work on moves learned in class and get floor time. No fee, but you are urged to order off the menu. We start about 8 p.m. An informal meeting; some come early to dine. We may dance to 10 p.m. See Monday at Jacobs
SATURDAY (Jan. 12) - Classes in Modesto with Patrick teaching.
Classes at Modesto Fitness and Racquet Club.
200 Norwegian, off McHenry.
11 a.m. Intermediate - Patrick will work on back sacadas.
12:30 - Beginner - Intermediates encouraged to stay; no additional fee. A chance to perfect your technique. $12 a class per person. Introductory deals for newcomers offer nine beginner level classes for $75 (can only be used as the beginner level.)

Modesto Tango is a non-profit association of tango aficionados dedicated to sharing the artistic, cultural and social aspects of Argentine Tango in Stanislaus County. To discontinue this bulletin go to <http://groups.google.com/group/Modesto-Tango/subscribe>

OUT OF TOWN: Some expressed interest in these. To carpool call 522-1571.

TUESDAY:
Sacramento: At Tango by the River, 128 J. Street, Old Sacramento.
Level I at 6:30,
Level II at 7:30, and Level III at 8:30 p.m. Contact Donna at 916-443-7008 or
donna@rivertango.com for more info. http://www.rivertango.com

TUESDAY
Emeryville @ Allegro Ballroom : 5855 Christie Ave., Nora Dinzelbacher
7:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.: Beg Lev $12
8:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m.: Int Lev $12
9:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m.: Practica $6 (Free with class) Ongoing -


THURSDAYS
Sacramento: at Tango by the River, 128 J Street, Old Sacramento
ED AND REBECA teach "Tango: Outside the Box."
The cost for classes and practica is $50 per person/$90 per couple for the month; Drop-in rate is $15 . The practica alone is $5.
This class and práctica is for students with a broad range of levels, we recommend that students have specific clearance from Ed and Rebeca.

MILONGAS: Argentine Tango Social Dance
@>---- SATURDAY, JANUARY 19, 2008 - Jacobs Fine Dining 2501 McHenry Av
Modesto, CA 95350 (209) 529-2829 Cancelled!
Our next Milonga will be Friday, March 21, with Gato & Andrea as guest artists.


MILONGAS ELSEWHERE

SACRAMENTO:

@>---- SATURDAY, JANUARY 12 – At Tango By the River,
128 J Street in Old Sacramento. Lesson from 8 to 9 p.m.
Dance from 9:00-midnight! Cost is $15 for lesson & dance;
$10 for dance only. Includes refreshments.
@>---- SATURDAY, JANUARY 26 – At Tango By the River,
128 J Street in Old Sacramento.
LIVE MUSIC WITH PARLOR TANGO!!!
Cost is $20 for lesson & dance; $15 for dance only.

OAKLAND:
@>---- SATURDAY, JANUARY 12 - La Milonga De Jeanne
@ Lake Merritt Dance Center 200 Grand Ave., Oakland
8 p.m. Tango Class by Sean & Charity -
9 p.m.-midnight Milonga Djed by Sean
10:30 Performance by Sean & Charity
$15 Class & Milonga - $12 Milonga only

EMERYVILLE:
@>---- SATURDAY, JANUARY 12th, 2008
"LA MILONGA DE NORA" @ ALLEGRO BALLROOM
5855 Christie Avenue - Emeryville
9:00pm - 10:00pm : Class by Nora & Ed
10:00pm - 2:00am : Milonga!
$15 Class and Milonga. $12 Milonga only. $7 after 12:30am
Light snacks and wine included.
Buenos Aires Tango Tour with Gato and Andrea!

Special trip for Modesto Tango Group, July 12-24, 2008 (registration open!)
Cost: $1500 per person without air fares if by Jan. 31st, 2008.
$1650 for people who register between February 1st and May 31st.

Departure date: July 11th , Arrival in Buenos Aires: July 12th

Departure from Buenos Aires: July 25th, Arrival in California: July 26th

How to register
1. Fill in the registration form, sent to each person who requests it by e-mail to us montitango@hotmail.com or andreaygato@gmail.com.ar in order to register.

2. The second step is the deposit to book the trip.
First period: $1500 per person without air fares
Deposit: $400 per person paid by bank deposit before January 31st, 2008.

2nd payment: $600 per person (cash) paid directly to Gato and Andrea while teaching in Modesto up to March 20th 2008 (receipt will be given)

3rd payment: $500 per person paid by bank deposit to Gato and Andrea to May 31st.

Second period (late registration): $1650 per person without air fares
Deposit: $650 per person (cash) directly to Gato and Andrea while teaching in Modesto from February to March 31st 2008 (receipt will be given).

Balance: $1000 per person paid by bank deposit to Gato and Andrea by May 31st.

More details at www.tour-tango.com.ar

The trip includes:

*Transfer from airport to hotel and from hotel to Ezeiza airport in private bus.

*13 nights accommodation in a Tango Guest House in San Telmo (La Casita de San Telmo) , including breakfast, double occupancy.
http://www.lacasitadesantelmo.com/english/casita.htm (the whole house for our group!).

*Welcome dinner in a typical local restaurant (all included)

*City Tour in private bus with bilingual guide (8 hours especially designed by us!).

*Walking tour in downtown and Plaza San Martin.

*8 private group tango workshops, one and a half hour each, milonguero
and salon styles (with excellent international well known teachers)

*12 dance nights at the best milongas and dance clubs (best tables booked by us at first line and ticket entrance included)

*Five stars Tango Dinner Show at Esquina Carlos Gardel, the best tango house theatre in BA (all included)

*A day in the country with "fiesta gaucha", "asado criollo", singing, dancing,"gaucho's show", country activities such as riding horses and much more!

*Sunday in San Telmo (visit Plaza Dorrego and experience San Telmo antique and arts and crafts fair)

*Guided visit to the marvelous and unique Teatro Colón & Visit to CaféTortoni

*Guided visit to Recoleta Cemetery and Del Pilar Church (with bilingual guide) +
Walking tour around Recoleta neighborhoods.

*Guided shopping day for tango shoes, clothes and souvenirs

*Guided shopping day for leather clothes.

*Last night farewell dinner at a nice local restaurant parrilla.

*24 hours personalized assistance

Contact Gato and Andrea directly andreaygato@gmail.com.ar ,

Visit our tour website to check other details:


Sunday

Gustavo Benzecry Sabá y María Olivera "Tango Negro"

An exhibition at Salon Canning in Buenos Aires

Comme-il-faut - the life of a tango shoe (1)


May I introduce myself? I was born in Argentina from the noble leather of bulls of the pampa, and according to the Argentine custom that only European things are considered dignified, I was called Comme-il-faut. I'm a tango shoe. Exceptionally hot-blooded with a fatal, red-shimmering high heel, two ankle fixings with a little diamond clasp and a toe strap of red laces on beige leather.

From the first moment on, when opened the bands of my satin bag with her red finger nails, and when she balanced me knowingly on the palm of her hands, I fell in love with her. And when she put me on, forced her sweet rosy feet in my leather, fixed the straps around her slender ankle and carefully closed the diamond clasp, I suddenly knew: we belong to each other. For now and always.

We start every day together. In the morning, after the shower, she takes me off the shelf and puts me on to practice the first steps of the day in front of the mirror. And even if the endless repetitions of ochos, cruzadas and turns are soooo boring to me - I'm a dignified tango shoe and not a working boot, remember? - I am proud to be indispensable to her. Almost every evening, we go out. Usually, a long time before we leave, I tremble with joy, and when she finally releases me from my satin cocoon and straps me over her feet in fishnet ties, I could die out of sheer happiness. A night, a whole night, just for us. Well? not for us exclusively, because we also dance with other shoes.

The ones I like best are two tiny velvet slippers, which are worn by a girl friend of hers. Most of the time, they share a vals, close embrace. I wonder whether she likes being led by a woman? I, in any event, am totally thrilled by the softness of those shoes. Energetically, but without any jerking or dragging, no knee-climbing or ankle-drags the softly glide over the dance floor. And when they jam me between them, the velvety texture caresses me softly? that's what I like.

Whenever they play Piazzolla, red suede leather boots chase me over the dance floor. Turn - quebrada. Four or five hasty steps - and a boleo. Gancho to the left, kick in the middle, gancho to the left. Maybe that is his interpretation of the music, but even a shoe has feelings. And this dragging, stopping, ripping makes me lose control and drives me totally crazy, nuts, tango-gaga. And her, too. Only I feel her trembling, and transpiring a little between her toes. She must be so glad when the tanda ends.

Before every milonga tanda, a pair of black lacquer shoes with white border stop in front of me. Silly, so much varnish - a little bit is elegant, but this sparkling is really importunate, and likewise is what those shoes request of me. Permanently I am to tip on the floor, bounce back, tipple, click with the heel and much more. I'm no sissy, really, but this is too much. Last time, I hurt the shoe with a big scratch, right in front. That's what he gets out of it, a scratched face. It's won't be soon that he comes back to us for a dance?.

Sometimes, a golden puma sneaker stops me, usually when we listen to electrotango. And I am to jump over it. What a shame for a classical tango shoe! Does he ever think about my heel? I could severely hurt myself when landing! And then, those rollercoaster-swings - boleos, they're called - I'm getting sick! But I know she loves such plays? and when she is really happy, she curls her leg round his hips so that my heel is close to his thigh and I can see the world from above. This calms me down, usually?. Very late, shortly before the end of the milonga, an unostentatious Werner Kern comes round. Pretty much rubbed off, no longer black but rather grey, heel resoled several times. I like that shoe. Sometimes, it glides around my red lace top, caresses softly her foot, even up to her ankle. And then she moans softly. I think she likes it, too, that shoe. Perhaps even the foot which goes with it. I can't tell exactly, because every time these shoes walk us home, I am to spend the night in my bag.

(1) Found on Ed Loomis' Newsletter