You are a new leader. You’ve been taking lessons maybe for a few months or so and you want to venture out into the world of the milonga. Bienvenido!

Here are some ideas I hope will help you on that very first day to help you enjoy that night so that you will continue your adventure.

1) Keep your expectations very low. Unless you know people or go with friends, your chances of getting dances will be very low.

2) If there is a pre-milonga less, take it. You will learn something and get a chance to meet people who might give you a shot later on. There could likely be other new dancers there too. Be social with everyone.

3) Use cabaceo (ask your teacher about cabaceo and mirada or look it up!) to make your invitations. Even though it is your first day, begin by demonstrating to your potential partners that you know something about tango culture and that you respect them enough not to walk up as a newbie and stick your hand in their face.

4) Know your priorities as a leader:

a) Keep your partner safe.

b) be a comfortable partner

c) stick to the vocabulary that you feel absolutely confident with.

d) enjoy being with your partner in the music

e) pause frequently

f) breathe

5) At the end of the tanda, thank your partner. Hug her warmly. Smile. Offer your arm and walk her back to her seat.

NOTE: My dear first day leader, you will likely find the following statement unbelievable. Most new leaders do. But here goes:

***Simple and musical is better***

If you stick with the dance, your vocabulary will undoubtedly grow and your technique will improve.

But on day 1, just stick with what you know and be with your partner and the music.

Also:

Bathe.

Brush your teeth. Tango is good for your dental hygiene because you will probably floss more, too.

Go light on the cologne.

but remember:

***Simple and musical is better***

Respect your partner and those around your.

Partner safety and comfort are your most important responsibilities.

Hopefully your first day is okay and you stick with it. Good luck.