Tango
Tango, a captivating and passionate dance, has its roots in the working-class neighbourhoods of Buenos Aires, Argentina, in the late 19th century. This musical subject is not just a dance; it’s a powerful expression of emotions, cultural identity, and social history.
At its core, tango is a dance of connection. Dancers engage in a close embrace, allowing them to feel every movement and breath of their partner. This intimate connection between the dancers gives tango its distinctive character, evoking feelings of desire, love, and sometimes melancholy. The dance itself has a dramatic flair, with dramatic pauses, quick footwork, and sharp turns.
The music that accompanies tango is equally passionate. Typically, tango music is played by a small ensemble, including instruments like the bandoneón, a type of accordion, violins, piano, and double bass. The bandoneón is particularly essential to the tango’s unique sound, adding a haunting and melancholic tone to the music.
Tango music often revolves around themes of love, heartache, and the struggles of everyday life. The lyrics of tango songs narrate stories of love lost and found, the challenges faced by immigrants, and the gritty reality of life in the barrios. This gives tango a deep connection to the Argentine cultural identity and a reflection of the human experience.
Throughout history, tango has experienced both adoration and criticism. Initially embraced by the working class and immigrants in Argentina, tango was seen as provocative and scandalous by the upper classes. However, as the dance and music spread to Europe in the early 20th century, it gained popularity and acceptance worldwide.
In the early 1900s, tango became a symbol of the golden age of Argentine culture. Legendary tango musicians like Carlos Gardel and Astor Piazzolla elevated the genre to new heights, blending traditional tango with elements of jazz and classical music.
Tango continues to evolve, with modern interpretations combining electronic sounds and contemporary dance styles. Tango festivals and competitions around the world celebrate this art form, bringing together dancers and musicians from diverse backgrounds.
So what’s this site all about anyway?
Well, if you ever find yourself needing music for anything – a YouTube video, a podcast, a school project, a presentation, TV commercial or even a film – then browse, preview and download any of our tracks
3 x length variations
MP3 files (320kpbs)
Readme PDF