Dynamic coordination patterns in Tango Argentino: A cross-fertilization of subjective explication methods and motion capture

Abstract

This contribution surveys strategies for analyzing highly coordinated forms of collaborative dance improvisation, based on tango argentino. Specifically, we take interest (a) in micro-coordination at the <1 s timescale in dance elements such as steps or rotations, (b) in meso-scale patterns of 2–8 step “figures”, and (c) in general enabling macro-patterns maintained throughout, a kind of “grammar” of tango. Across these timescales, dancers supply individual action-readiness, dynamic stability, proper form and connectivity, while jointly “managing” structures of interpersonal coordination such as enabling configurations. Our study engages qualitative and quantitative methods in a dialogue. Starting with micro-genetic elicitation interviews, dancers reported ideomotor concepts, perceptual triggers, and didactic imagery. Besides general (e. g. postural) habits, task-specific forms or techniques, and attentional foci, this yields insights into the interlocking contributions and information flow between tango leaders and followers within units as small as half-steps. The subjective data was then “frontloaded” into a motion-capture study in which six expert couples, fitted with 2 × 21 light-point reflectors, executed various tango techniques. We developed kinematic indicators for individual and interpersonal coordination (degree of coupling, relative movement onset and action timing, role specifics); we also measured geometries underlying various tango tasks and style variations. The combined data suggests a micro-coordination model where dynamic interdependencies enable precise mutually adaptive action. The criss-crossing signals, e. g. when the increasing lability of the leader’s torso triggers the follower’s leg extension at the beginning of a forward step, suggests task-, phase-and body-part specific contingencies whereby leaders and followers micro-coordinate actions with respect to one another.