Exploring the Healing Power and Cultural Richness of Tango

In recent years, the international tango community has witnessed the emergence of a new trend: the organization of congresses and conferences dedicated to exploring the multifaceted nature of tango. These events are becoming key platforms for scholars, researchers, practitioners, and enthusiasts to gather, share insights, and deepen their understanding of tango from various perspectives. The upcoming conferences in Berlin and Atlanta are prime examples of this growing phenomenon.

Tango Connects Berlin: A Celebration of Healing

In September 06-08, 2024, Nou Tango Berlin will celebrate its 20th anniversary by hosting the first-ever “Tango Connects Berlin: The Healing Power of Tango.” This landmark event aims to illuminate the therapeutic potential of tango through a transdisciplinary approach. Scholars, researchers, and practitioners from diverse fields are invited to share their experiences and gain insights into how tango can enrich their teaching and therapeutic practice.
https://tango.connects.berlin

Key Aspects of the Conference

Physical Health: Tango has been shown to improve balance, coordination, and overall physical fitness. Workshops and presentations will explore how tango can be used as a form of physical therapy, particularly for individuals with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Mental Health: The rhythmic and social nature of tango can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The conference will feature discussions on the psychological benefits of tango, including its role in promoting mindfulness and emotional well-being.
Personal Growth: Tango fosters personal development by enhancing social skills, boosting confidence, and encouraging creative expression. Participants will learn how tango can be a tool for self-improvement and personal growth.
Holistic Health: The holistic approach of tango integrates body, mind, and spirit. Experts from neuroscience, psychotherapy, dance, music, and medicine will provide a comprehensive view of how tango can enhance life quality and improve dance techniques.

Distinguished Speakers and Facilitators

The conference will feature a diverse lineup of speakers and workshop facilitators, including:

Neuroscientists discussing the impact of tango on mental and physical health.
Psycho and physical therapists exploring the therapeutic potential of tango.
Dance and movement instructors demonstrating techniques to enhance both physical and mental health.
Medical professionals sharing research on tango as a complementary therapy.

Tango in the Humanities sponsored by Emory University

Just two months later, in November, Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, will be the “Tango in the Humanities” conference. Led by Kristin Wendland, a prominent figure in the field of music, this event follows two books she co-authored with pianist Kacey Link. The conference will bring together contributors whose work represents the forefront of tango research and application.

https://www.tangoinhumanities.com

Key Themes of the Conference

Adapted Tango for Mobility and Cognitive Impairments: Madeleine Hackney, renowned for her research on adapted Argentine tango dance, will present her findings on how tango can improve mobility and cognitive function in older adults with and without Parkinson’s disease.
Tango in Human Studies: The conference will explore tango’s role in various research areas, including anthropology, sociology, musicology, and dance studies. This broad scope highlights the cultural and academic significance of tango as a subject of study.

Bridging the Atlantic: A Collaborative Effort

Both the Berlin and Atlanta conferences aim to create a transatlantic bridge, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange between the international tango communities. The organizers of these events will attend each other’s conferences, emphasizing the global nature of tango and its potential as more than just a leisure activity but a professional field of application.

Conclusion

The emerging trend of tango conferences underscores the growing recognition of tango’s diverse benefits. From physical and mental health to personal growth and cultural enrichment, tango is being explored and celebrated in academic and professional circles. The “Tango Connects Berlin” and “Tango in the Humanities” conferences exemplify this movement, offering rich opportunities for learning, connection, and the advancement of tango as a multifaceted discipline. As these events demonstrate, tango is not just a dance but a powerful tool for enhancing life quality and fostering interdisciplinary research and practice.

Check out both websites for detailed information.