Leading and Following

[Alexander Allori <san @ALUMNI.RICE.EDU>]

Hello all.  So, my partner and I are making small but certain steps in the
right direction as we learn the beginning techniques of Argentine tango.
Tomorrow will mark the third week of every-day practice with my new partner.
Of course, it'll be years before we're able to really express ourselves
through the tango.  I can't wait for that!  It's such a beautiful dance --
an artform, really -- when one puts his passion and emotion into it.  How I
yearn to be there already!

My question for all of you is this:  I'm having a hard time leading my
partner.  Part of this is, of course, my fault.  I'm only beginning to learn
how to dance (and lead the dance).  But I think my partner's having a hard
time following -- specifically, I feel as if she is making it harder for me
to lead because she is not participating in maintaining the frame.  At
least, that is my feeling of our principal problem.  However, I don't want
to "chew her out" about it -- I'd rather approach the situation with some
constructive criticism.  Since I don't really know how to follow, I'm at a
loss for what advice to give her in order to become a better follower.  We
will, of course, ask our instructors about this, but I thought I'd ask for
your opinions as well.

What principal points would you recommend for becoming a good follower?  A
good leader?

Thanks to all.
--Alessandro.