2694 Vals 'timing'
Date: Fri, 27 Aug 2004 17:26:14 -0500
From: Frank Williams <frankw@MAIL.AHC.UMN.EDU>
Subject: Re: Vals 'timing'
Nice to see the list chatting away...
Recent comments by...
Jennifer: "stepping on a timing in vals other than 1 and 1-2 is fairly
unusual and advanced"
Bruce: "I think I'd write it as 1-3, but either is clear, I guess. ... I
do 12- now and again, just for variety, and occasionally the music suggests
it."
Quick reaction ...
The act of making a step is certainly not the only rhythmic element in vals
(or any other dance, for that matter). Don't forget your best defense
against milonga crowds - the simple balanceo. Traspie is also as much at
home in vals as in milonga, and the list of follower's non-step 'vocabulary'
that echoes rhythm goes on and on. Leading complex rhythms needn't be a
physical challenge - it can be rather subtle. The enjoyment of syncopation,
after all, is in the head rather than the feet! To call any timing other
than 12- (or 1-3) unusual and advanced almost suggests a mindset of adapting
preconceived tango figures to the different rhythm of vals. It isn't
necessary. Personally, I'd rather dance apilado corridas following the
music's interesting rhythm (Biagi, e.g.) than slash around trying to force
vals timing on some 'big-tango' structure. ...not that 'big-vals' isn't fun
under the right circumstances...
My point is, nice musicality in vals is not as simple as "1,2,3-tango".
Obviously, vals music is unique and as much different from tango as is
milonga music. The phrasing and energy and lyricism require just as much
attention as the 3/4 time signature.
DJ's, please choose carefully - I like valses that lighten and relax the
mood of the room. Those that are too fast are disappointing - challenging
to work with and almost stressful for the dancers. Canaro definitely had it
right!
As always, *everything IMHO*! I hope you have a lot more time for vals than
do I at the moment! :-(
With my best,
F. - Mpls.
Frank Williams
writing from BSBE,
612-625-6441
frankw@umn.edu
