A never-ending story
The tango originated in the late 19th century in the working-class neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, blending African, European, and Latin American influences into a passionate and dramatic dance form.
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The age before the Tango
Argentina’s path to independence began in 1810 with the May Revolution, fueled by the desire to break free from Spanish colonial rule. José de San Martín played a key role, leading military campaigns that helped free Argentina, Chile, and Peru from Spain. Argentina declared its independence in 1816, but political divisions led to years of civil conflict. By the mid-19th century, the country stabilized with the 1853 Constitution and began to modernize. This period also saw a wave of European immigration, shaping Argentina’s economy and culture for the future.
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La Guardia Vieja – 1890’s to 1916
The Age of la Guardia Vieja was a key period in the evolution of tango, blending African, Criollo, and immigrant influences. African rhythms, brought by enslaved people, contributed to tango’s syncopated beats, while the Criollo population infused melodies with Spanish and indigenous elements. Immigrants, particularly from Italy and Spain, added their musical traditions, introducing instruments like the guitar and flute.
As tango grew, the bandoneón became the defining instrument, joined by the piano and contrabass, shaping the tango orchestra. This fusion of African, European, and Latin influences transformed tango from a street dance into a sophisticated art form.
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La Guardia Nueva – 1916 to 1935
From 1916 to 1935, tango saw a rise in popularity, with Carlos Gardel becoming an international icon and Julio De Caro bringing sophistication to its music. Gardel’s songs helped elevate tango beyond Argentina, while De Caro’s orchestral innovations appealed to more refined audiences. However, the Great Depression hit Argentina hard, leading to a decline in the popularity of tango as a dance. Economic struggles made tango performances less accessible, and musicians faced reduced pay and fewer job opportunities.
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The Golden Age – 1935 to 1955
The Golden Age of Tango, spanning roughly from the 1930s to the early 1950s, marked the height of tango’s cultural and musical influence. Orchestras like those of Carlos Di Sarli, Juan D’Arienzo, and Aníbal Troilo brought tango to life with captivating rhythms and melodies, while legendary singers such as Francisco Fiorentino gave voice to its soul. This era saw tango flourish in Buenos Aires’ bustling dance halls, becoming a symbol of Argentine identity and a profound expression of emotion, connection, and artistry.
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Decline of the Tango – 1955 to 1983
From 1955 to 1983, tango faced a sharp decline as rock and roll and international music styles became more popular, particularly among younger generations. The tango, once a symbol of Argentine identity, struggled in the face of political instability and the military dictatorships that ruled during this period. The Dirty War (1976–1983) led to widespread repression and censorship, further suppressing cultural expressions like tango.
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Picking up the Pieces – 1983 to 2020
From 1983 to 2020, tango experienced a vibrant revival after Argentina’s dictatorship. The return to democracy sparked a resurgence in tango through shows, international tours, and dance classes, reconnecting people with Argentina’s cultural heritage. Tango gained global popularity, with festivals and performances spreading worldwide. In the early 2000s, Tango Nuevo emerged, blending traditional tango and contemporary dance. By 2020, tango had evolved into a global art form, maintaining its emotional depth while adapting to modern influences.
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A new generation – Viejo Nuevo
We began our tango journey in 2020, with a unique approach that sets us apart from many dancers who tend to focus on a specific style. Our passion drives us to go even further back in time, exploring tango’s evolution from its early days in the Guardia Vieja to its Golden Age. We specialize in reinventing ourselves in accordance with the music and context of each era, allowing us to experience tango in its many forms.