How the European Waltz Shaped the Argentine Tango
The European waltz and the Argentine tango are two of the most iconic and elegant dances in the world. While they differ in origin, style, and expression, they also share historical and musical influences. This article explores how the European waltz contributed to shaping the Argentine tango.
The Origin of the Waltz and the Tango
The waltz, danced in 3/4 time, originated in the 18th century in German-speaking Europe. Known then as Walzer—meaning “to turn” or “to roll”—it was a peasant dance that scandalized the upper classes due to its close embrace and rapid spinning. As it gained popularity in Vienna, composers like Johann Strauss and Joseph Lanner refined it into the smooth, flowing form we recognize today. The waltz spread throughout Europe and the Americas, influencing other styles such as the polka, mazurka, and eventually, the tango.
The tango, by contrast, emerged in the late 19th century in the outskirts of Buenos Aires and Montevideo. Known as Tango Criollo, it fused African candombe, Spanish flamenco, Cuban habanera, and Italian melodies. Rooted in marginalized communities, the tango was seen as rebellious and sensual. It eventually reached Paris, where it was refined and embraced by high society. From there, it spread globally, leaving its mark on jazz, swing, and salsa.
The Influence of the Waltz on the Tango
Despite their differences, the waltz and the tango share key similarities. Both are partner dances rooted in connection and musical interpretation. They express a wide emotional range—from joy to nostalgia—and each possesses distinct features. The waltz is circular, smooth, and regular in rhythm. The tango is linear, intense, and rhythmically complex.
Historically, the waltz introduced the concept of the dance couple in close embrace—something later embraced by the tango. In Europe, tango was initially perceived as a variation of the waltz, helping it gain mainstream acceptance. Musically, the waltz influenced tango rhythms, melodies, and harmonies. Some tangos, particularly lyrical ones, adopted the 3/4 meter and melodic sensibility of the waltz. Notable examples include Desde el Alma, Romance de Barrio, and Soñar y Nada Más.
European Waltz and Argentine Tango: Two Dances That Enrich Each Other
The European waltz and the Argentine tango tell parallel stories—rooted in cultural fusion and emotional expression. Each has shaped and inspired the other across time and geography. These dances symbolize the richness of European and Latin American traditions, and both deserve to be celebrated, studied, and enjoyed.