Tango Dance Classes In Ottawa
Tango With Drama
Tango dance classes at DQ Ballroom & Fitness Ottawa cover the International Standard Tango, with its sharp staccato footwork, strong closed frame, and dramatic head turns. It is one of the five Standard ballroom dances and a different tradition from Argentine Tango (which we also teach as a separate program).
Tango Dance Classes For Beginners
Build The Drama
Beginner International Tango classes focus on the strong closed frame, the basic walk, the link, the closed promenade, and the open reverse turn. We pay special attention to the staccato character that makes Tango feel like Tango.
- checkStrong closed frame
- checkTango walks and timing
- checkClosed promenade and link
- checkStaccato footwork
Tango Classes For Intermediate Dancers
Sharpen Every Step
Intermediate Tango introduces the Open Reverse Turn, the Back Corté, the Outside Swivel, the Natural Twist Turn, and the dramatic Contra Check. We work on syncopation, character, and the head movements that define competition-quality Tango.
- checkOpen Reverse Turn and Back Corté
- checkNatural Twist Turn and Contra Check
- checkOutside Swivel and Syncopation
- checkHead movements and character
Your First Class
A quick look at how a class actually flows from start to finish.
- 015 min early
Arrive and sign in
Sign in at reception, change shoes, and meet your instructor.
- 02~30 min
Learn the figures
Your instructor breaks down each step in small pieces, demonstrates with a partner, then walks you through it slowly with the music.
- 03~15 min
Practice
Run through the figures with your partner. Your instructor circulates to give individual feedback and corrections.
Find Your Spot In A Tango Class
International Tango is a dance with a character all its own, sharp, dramatic, and deeply satisfying to master. If you came in looking for Argentine Tango, we offer that as a separate program. Browse the schedule and pick a class that fits your week.
Tango is taught at DQ Ballroom & Fitness as part of our Standard Ballroom program. If Tango catches your interest, you might also enjoy our other International Standard dances. You can also browse all of our dance classes to see the full lineup.
Real Reviews From Real Dancers
Pulled from our Google profile.
50+ Google reviews
“The best dance studio in Ottawa. It has a huge dance floor, perfect for International Ballroom. They offer classes for all ages, all levels and various styles, with world-class instructors.”
Karen Lo
a year ago
“Melanie helped us create the perfect choreo for our wedding dance. She was amazing, always nice and patient, extremely professional and experienced. She made us feel comfortable and we made a lot of progress.”
Rebecca Scano
10 months ago
“Melanie & Lionel are excellent instructors, very knowledgeable and fun to work with. The studio has a beautiful dance floor, one of the most spacious in Ottawa. The Friday dance parties and special events are my favourite, not to be missed!”
Mirka Strmiskova
a year ago
“I am very satisfied to dance at DQ where I have learned to dance with precision, style and control. Instructors are highly skilled, teach with a sense of humour, and adapt to your learning objectives.”
Yvan Beaulieu
a year ago
“A welcoming dance studio for all ages and dance experience. The instructors are knowledgeable and patient. Lots of styles to choose from on the schedule and the prices are fair. Having a really nice time in the group classes as well as the social dances.”
Catherine H
a year ago
“If you're looking for a dance studio in Ottawa, whether you have zero experience or you're a seasoned dancer, this is your sign to stop looking and try DQ Ballroom & Fitness.”
Clara Miller
a year ago
Common Questions
The questions we hear most from new students.
How is International Tango different from Argentine Tango?expand_more
International Tango is part of the Standard ballroom syllabus: closed hold, sharp staccato, strong frame, fixed figures danced on a count. Argentine Tango is improvised, uses a closer embrace, and has a flowing musical character. We teach both as separate programs.
What will I learn in a beginner Tango class?expand_more
The closed Tango frame, the basic Tango walk and timing, the link, the closed promenade, and the open reverse turn. By the end of the series you will be able to dance a social International Tango.
Do I need a partner for Tango?expand_more
You don't need a partner to sign up. We encourage you to join with a partner (practicing together outside of class makes a real difference), but if you come on your own, we'll pair you up with someone during the lesson. Everyone is welcome.
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Class openings, social party announcements, and the occasional welcome offer for new students.
Sign Up For A Tango Class
Browse the schedule, pick a class that fits your week, and reserve your spot.