Stop Practicing Tango!

When one of the greatest cellists of all time, Pablo Casals, was asked why he continued to practice the cello three hours a day, he replied, “I’m beginning to notice some improvement.”  He was 93 years old.

Give up practising tango--at least in the sense of it as an act of preparation.

The word "practise" comes from Greek (praxis):  
To do or act on what is known, rather than our modern idea of to prepare for doing or acting.  Pau Casals (known as "Pablo") was no different than the dancer who practices by him/herself just out of the pure joy of dance and the appreciation of perfection.

Pure tango is the praxis of sheer joy and perfect connection with your partner, rather than a step towards a show or performance for others.

Wouldn't you rather go to a doctor who practises medicine rather than a doctor who performs medicine on your body-stage? One step towards praxis is a step away from practising for performance* tango and the mentality that goes with it.





*Performance tango is not for the dance floor, and is not social tango. However, I have all the respect in the world for the excellent performers whose praxis is tango on stage.

http://www.parttimemusician.com/2009/06/25/quote-pablo-casals/