These are dancers that have moved and motivated us (my wife and I). We have explored and learned something fundamental from all of them—not just moves, but deeper insights into tango. With most or many of them, we have taken some sort of class or two, and with several, I have had many hours of lessons. Gustavo, Chicho, Alejandra Mantiñan, and of course Hernán are the tango mentors in my life.
Mariano 'Chicho' Frúmboli is a multifaceted artist—musician, composer, actor, and dancer—who has significantly influenced modern tango. He is renowned for his improvisational skills and musical interpretation, making him a central figure in the tango nuevo movement. His teaching emphasizes body awareness and the essence of musicality in dance. Together with his partner Juana Sepulveda, they form one of the most dynamic and innovative tango partnerships, known for their precision, creativity, and beautiful synchronicity in movement.
Carlitos Espinoza is a dynamic milonguero-style dancer from Argentina and Chile with over two decades of experience. He has instructed at hundreds of festivals and workshops worldwide, gaining a loyal following. His early training emphasized the importance of walking in tango, a foundation that has shaped his distinctive style.
Facundo Piñero and Vanessa Villalba form a dynamic partnership known for their elegant style and emotional connection. Vanessa brings grace and expressiveness to her dancing, while Facundo contributes powerful technique and presence. Together, they have performed and taught worldwide, becoming known for both their stage performances and their accessible teaching approach that emphasizes the embrace, musicality, and authentic connection between partners.
Introduced to tango at 12 through a project led by his father, Gianpiero Galdi fell in love with the dance during a trip to Buenos Aires at 15. He has studied with major maestros and began teaching and performing internationally at 18. His dedication has made him a respected figure in the tango community.
Alejandra Mantiñan is celebrated for her exceptional technique and profound contributions to tango. Often referred to as having "miraculous feet," she has set high standards in both performance and teaching. Her dedication has earned her titles such as angel, goddess, queen, and icon of tango.
She has danced with various partners including Aoniken Quiroga, who began dancing at seven, surrounded by prominent milongueros of Buenos Aires. By 12, he was already performing. His unique style and joyful expression have made him a sought-after performer in tango shows worldwide.
Lorena Tarantino started studying dance and ballet at five. At 17, she discovered tango through Gianpiero Galdi and quickly became passionate about its pedagogy and the care dedicated to students' development. Under Gianpiero's guidance, she embarked on her professional tango journey.
Sebastián Achával discovered tango at 15 and moved to Buenos Aires to pursue a professional career. In 2005, he became the Tango de Salón World Champion. His dance is noted for elegance and precision, and he has partnered with Roxana Suárez since 2007.
Jonathan Saavedra began his dance journey with Argentine folklore at the age of five. Before transitioning to tango in 2010, he was involved in various dance groups and festivals. His diverse dance background enriches his tango performances, characterized by a blend of traditional and contemporary elements. Clarisa Aragón, his dance partner, began her training at nine with classical ballet, later expanding to jazz, Argentine folklore, salsa, and contemporary dance. In 2009, she immersed herself in tango, studying with esteemed maestros. Together, they create performances that showcase both technical precision and profound emotional expression.
Hernán Brizuela is a tango dancer and teacher from Mendoza, Argentina. He began studying Argentine folklore dance at seven and received his first tango lesson from his mother at ten. Hernán has taught and performed at various festivals and studios worldwide, including in New York, Massachusetts, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, and Argentina. He was a principal dancer in the off-Broadway dance play "Let's Speak Tango" and choreographed and starred in the short film "Gardenias."
Ariadna Naveira is one of the most respected female tango dancers of her generation. Born in Buenos Aires, she began her tango journey at a young age and quickly established herself as a distinguished performer and teacher. Known for her precise technique, musical interpretation, and elegant style, Naveira has performed and taught worldwide alongside her longtime dance partner Fernando Sanchez. Her contributions to tango include innovative choreography while maintaining deep respect for traditional elements. Naveira is particularly recognized for her expressive follower technique and has influenced countless female dancers through her workshops and master classes.
Noelia Hurtado is recognized for her elegant, musical dancing and warm teaching approach. She began dancing tango in her twenties and quickly rose to international prominence, becoming known for her connection to the music, her beautiful posture, and her ability to express emotion through movement. She has danced with several notable partners and is particularly admired for her clear, grounded technique and ability to communicate the essence of tango music through her movement. Noelia has influenced many followers with her distinctive approach that balances technical precision with emotional depth.
These artists have each made significant contributions to the evolution and dissemination of Argentine tango, blending tradition with innovation and inspiring dancers globally.