4729  Judging Level

Date: Fri, 26 Jan 2007 18:53:06 -0800
From: "Igor Polk" <ipolk@virtuar.com>
Subject: [Tango-L] Judging Level
To: <tango-l@mit.edu>

> that's just as accurate as judging one's skill level by the amount of
> money they paid for their shoes.

What about judging level on how many shoes a dancer completely weared out?

Igor.

Date: Sun, 28 Jan 2007 09:38:54 -0500
From: lgmoseley@aol.com
Subject: [Tango-L] Judging levels
To: tango-l@mit.edu

that's just as accurate as judging one's skill level by the amount of > money they paid for their shoes.
What about judging level on how many shoes a dancer completely weared out?
Igor.
If someone claims to be at a particular level, why not ask them to dance
with an experienced dancer of your acquaintance (perhaps one of the teachers)?
Then ask the person with whom they danced and another experienced person who watched
them dance to get together and make a judgement?
A good test for males is to ask them to dance with an experienced lady who merely puts her
hands on his shoulders and he has to lead her through a track of, say, Pugliese without using
his hands. If he can't, he should still be among the beginners.
With ladies it is more difficult. One of my tests is to lead her with deliberately
varied rhythms, but in time to the music. If she can wait when you stop or slow down, she
is probably ready for the Improvers' class. Another useful test is to deliberately vary
your length of stride. If she can adjust without apparently noticing that you are
doing it, she too will be OK.
However, I would welcome information about how other people do the job.
Of course, if you are going to pass such judgements, you should be willing to demonstrate
what you mean - they are more likely to listen to you if you can show that you at least
can do it! Also be ready for some flack in return. Some of the worst dancers are the ones who
would not be allowed into an Improvers or Intermediate class - but want to enter with the
Advanced ones.
Brazos
Laurie (Laurence)