As we approach the end of 2024, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what an amazing year it has been for Tango Oso. This year, we had the privilege of welcoming a diverse group of tango teachers, each bringing their own unique style, experience, and passion to our community. From inspiring classes and practica to the biggest milonga in the West Midlands, Tango Oso is proud to continue its commitment to enriching the local tango scene through collaboration and creating teaching opportunities
Our teachers this year included both familiar faces and exciting new additions, creating an unforgettable year of learning and connection. Here’s a look back at the incredible instructors who shaped 2024 at Tango Oso.
Hannah Cooper
Hannah’s warm and inclusive teaching style made her a beloved instructor at Tango Oso. In March, she collaborated with Pam (Tango Oso) to host the "Fizz and Fancy Footwork" workshop series, which emphasized elegance, precision, and creativity on the dance floor for followers.
Her ability to create an encouraging and inclusive environment has allowed throughout the year both beginners and advanced dancers to feel confident and inspired as they honed their skills.
Eleni Mouatsou
Eleni brought back her expertise and unique teaching style gained from her years as the organiser of University of Birmingham Tango Society to Tango Oso twice this year, in both April and June. Celebrated for her focus on musicality and connection, Eleni’s classes emphasized the heart of tango communication through movement and Milonga.
Her sessions left a lasting impact, inspiring dancers to deepen their appreciation for the art and technique of tango.
Cristian and Veronica
Since 2020, Cristian and Veronica have been teaching and performing together, bringing a wealth of experience and artistry to the tango world. Cristian’s tango journey began in his childhood, studying Danzas Folkloricas Argentinas under Hugo Jiménez and Marina Tondini, directors of Ballet Salta. In 1993, he transitioned into tango, learning from legends such as Pepito Avellaneda, Roberto Herrera, and Vanina Bilous. Cristian’s global teaching and performing career has earned him a place as a jury member for the 2023 World Tango Championship in the stage category. He also played a pivotal role in the National Geographic tango documentary on Maestro Osvaldo Pugliese.
Veronica started dancing at the age of 10 with Danzas Folklóricas Argentinas and later explored rhythmic gymnastics, pilates, yoga, ballet, and Argentine folklore before discovering tango at the age of 20. A World Tango Championship finalist, Veronica is dedicated to spreading tango culture with respect and love. She has previously taught in Birmingham, and her return to Tango Oso on April 23rd was a much-anticipated event for those who know the depth of her teaching. Together, Cristian and Veronica brought a profound sense of tradition and innovation to their sessions.
Caroline Mathias
Caroline, a UK-born dancer with over a decade of experience in Buenos Aires, is no stranger to adapting her teaching to the individual needs of her students. With a background at the prestigious DNI Tango School, she emphasizes the importance of technique serving creativity and confidence in social dance.
Caroline joined us for the much-anticipated "Winter Milonga" last December and returns this year, rounding off the year with her inspiring classes. Her ability to balance precision with freedom in tango made her sessions a favourite among the community.
Julia & Franco Strazzanti
Julia and Franco’s tango journey began over a decade ago, sparked by a simple newspaper advert. Rooted in the Villa Urquiza and Tango Salon traditions, their dance reflects the perfect blend of tradition and evolution. Trained by maestros such as Dante Culcuy and Celeste Comino, they brought their expertise to Tango Oso twice this year.
Their February "6-Week Beginner Series" was a highlight for newcomers offering a structured and welcoming introduction to tango as well as beginning their teaching journey here in Birmingham,
Andy Adamson & Clare Lidbury
Andy and Clare brought their unique teaching style to Tango Oso this year, with a focus on musicality, technique, and creativity. There sessions encouraged dancers to explore new dimensions in their tango.
Their contributions added depth to Tango Oso’s offerings, helping dancers refine their technique while celebrating the joy of tango.
Peter Winn and Sharon Balamoody
Peter Winn and Sharon Balamoody of Tango 42 brought their expertise to the Tango Oso community through their engaging classes, setting the tone for a month full of tango excellence by focusing on strong foundations of Tango technique.
Milonga en el Cielo
One of the standout events of the year was the "Milonga en el Cielo" in July, hosted by Tango Oso. This magical evening featured workshops and a stunning performance by UK Champions Adrien and Iro, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone who attended. If you missed the Milonga or want to relive the experience, you can read more about it in our dedicated blog post here.
Special Guest Teachers – October Open House
October was an exciting month at Tango Oso, featuring a series of "Tuesday Tango Takeovers" during our Open House. We had the pleasure of hosting three incredible guest teachers: Nicolas Ignacio Godoy from Manchester, Raquel Greenberg from London, and Tango Encantado’s Alice Spencer & Mark Hazeldine from Gloucester.
Nicolas brought his passion for tango and engaging teaching approach, while Raquel, fresh from her Crete tango retreat, shared her extensive experience and deep understanding of tango’s technical and emotional dimensions. Alice and Mark of Tango Encantado added their unique partnership and creative nuevo style, all offering fresh insights and inspiration to dancers of all levels.
October’s Open House was a vibrant celebration of tango teaching and community building by bringing great teaching to dancers to the 2nd biggest UK city, with these talented teachers making it a truly unforgettable month.
A Heartfelt Thank You
As we wrap up 2024, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the teachers who shared their knowledge and passion with us this year. Your dedication to tango and commitment to teaching and sharing your passion and skills have enriched our community and inspired so many dancers.
To our students, thank you for your enthusiasm and love for this beautiful dance. You are at the heart of Tango Oso, and it is your passion that drives us to keep growing and evolving, to bring you quality dancing.
Here’s to another incredible year of tango in 2025! We look forward to seeing you on the dance floor soon.
