Tango vocal coaching - Style & Storytelling

I believe in the power of tango musically, and dramatically. As the singer, one needs to use their voice not just to "sing," but also to "tell," to "communicate," to "express." That's why a tango singer is very often referred to as an interpreter. Based on this fundamental idea, my teaching focus on the two pillars - stylistic authenticity and storytelling.

For stylistic authenticity, I highlight the followings:

• Diction & Accent: Tango singing derives a large part of its flavor from an authentic Rioplatense Spanish accent. As a native Chinese speaker, I had to engage with this matter from an outsider’s perspective and was greatly aided by my background in linguistics in understanding the nuances of this dialect. This makes me particularly suited to providing non-native Spanish speakers a foothold with this topic.

• Phrasing & Rubato: One of the most characteristic features of tango surely is the great freedom that singers have in phrasing the melody on top of the accompaniment. It is common for phrases to get anticipated, accelerated, extended or delayed, all while the singer stays acutely aware of where they are within the time frame and how to re-engage with the accompanying musicians. I dedicate constant work to researching this topic, analyzing both the most common phrasing choices within tango generally, as well as the idiosincratic styles of individual luminary figures that profoundly influenced subsequent artists.

• Other stylistic aspects: We will explore the vast repertoire of tango classics and expand your vocabulary of the various aspects that define tango singing as much as phrasing, such as tone, articulation, ornamentation, dynamics within the song form, conventional practices, etc., all to solidify your stylistic foundation.

For storytelling, I incorporate my studies in acting to guide students in developing truthful and nuanced interpretations of the lyrics. We move beyond a literal reading of the text to explore the emotional subtext and dramatic arc of each piece. This process aims to build a commanding stage presence and ensure that every performance is a deliberate act of communication, rather than a mere recitation.

All these serve the only and ultimate purpose - to gain the freedom to make your own choices and express YOURSELF, while remaining authentically rooted within the tango idiom.

If you are interested in exploring these techniques further, - whether you are a tango newcomer, or an experienced vocalist seeking to refine your style, - feel free to contact me at lenorehuang6@gmail.com or click the button below. I look forward to discussing your specific goals and how we can work together to develop your unique tango voice.