Re: [TANGO-L] Detecting sham and incompetent Teachers

["Frank G. Williams" <frankw @MAIL.AHC.UMN.EDU>]

Another opinion:

As a teacher (but no longer actively teaching tango), I do not subscribe to
TangoGuy's over-ambitious list of criteria.  It's not that simple, and yet
it's simpler....

First of all, a tango teacher should be a completely genuine person.  They
should not be insecure, afraid of criticism or appear to hide behind a title
or an external image or persona.  Like, they should not need on-line
pseudonyms. Building confidence in students is not easy - especially if *the
teacher* lacks self confidence.  Being honest with students starts with
being honest with oneself.  ...and especially when the 'news' is bad
(whatever it may be in life), honesty is an obvious sign of basic respect.
All of the elements of respect can take a while to evaluate, but they should
all be there.  Insecure teachers and students: they deserve each other!

My second thought is perhaps a more personal recommendation.  When you see
teachers dance you should be struck first by the FEELING.  Look for people
who express their feelings.  When they dance simply, do they express
feelings that you also might like to explore?  That's important!  Does a
parada seem breathless?  Rather than thinking 'those were some slashin'
boleos!', do they make you wonder 'where did THAT energy come from (and
where is it going)?'  Are their bodies talking to each other, especially
when the musical energy is lower?  Those are the teachers who are less
likely to waste your time.  

Typical example: There is a local teacher whom I consider sub-optimal and
whenever I see that person dance, no matter the partner, the obvious feeling
is of anger, dominance, and insecurity, which comes through despite the poor
technique.  In fact, this dancer expresses their emotion better than most,
which is unfortunate!  The proud title "Teacher of Classy Argentine Tango"
hides NO personal shortcomings and has resulted in mild ridicule.  Yet,
notwithstanding issues of technique, the personal issues that limit this
teacher are right up front in their dancing, for all to see.  

Bottom line for the criteria list:  It's art.  Go with your feelings.

Frank - Mpls.

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