Re: [TANGO-L] How to teach rhythm? The Contrarian view - A question of Ethics

[Gary Barnes <garybarn @OZEMAIL.COM.AU>]

I disagree. There is hope for the rhythmically challenged. It is
unethical to make promises you cannot keep, but also unethical to tell
someone they cannot learn something, when the only truth is that you
have not been able (or think you will be unable) to teach them.

I have seen people start with total inability to find rhythm in music
(even marching), let alone distinguishing tango rhythms. After good
teaching, commitment and time, they can suddenly 'find the music' and
start dancing tango musically - sometimes after years of effort.

Dancing tango does not require native talent. Talent will make it much
much easier and quicker, and increase the chance that you become
expert. People without existing dance skills, musicality, athleticism
etc can learn to dance tango well. I have seen it.

As for teachers auditioning students - well it depends what the teacher
wants to do. If you want to only produce exceptional dancers, then
audition. But an excellent teacher can teach almost anyone - though
they cannot teach everyone to be exceptional!

And almost anyone can teach an exceptional student.

my 2.2 c
Gary

who can dance tango a bit now


On 25/10/2005, at 11:11 AM, Lucia wrote:

> What amazes me is that you have continued teaching this person for one
> year, raising his hopes while being totally aware of his problem. The
> teachers that I know hold an audition for the prospective pupils, and
> reject those without talent.
>
> I consider this case being on the border of ethical behavior.
>
>
>
> > Dear listeros,
> > Al and I are struggling with a challenge we haven't met before. One of
> > our students seems to have absolutely no sense of rhythm. ...