If one bar of tango is counted '1 & 2 &', the '&' appears to stand for 1/2 a beat, which would otherwise be counted 'QQQQ' (eg Four Step Change)

If I dance the alternate timing of QQ&S, how do I count that in bars, for now, the '&' seems to represent 1/4 of a beat, not 1/2. The same timing is given for a Brush Tap, or Quarter Beats, so the '&' seems to be bearing two different meanings.

Where a figure like a Closed Promenade is turned to PP at the end of step 4, the timing is given as SQQS&. Does that mean that the last beat is divided 3/4 and 1/4, or is the effect of an '&' count to halve the time value of the preceding step, so that Q& is two quarter beats, but S& is two half beats? I'm really confused.

I find the speed of the late turn on a quarter beat difficult to dance, but perhaps I am leaving the lead too late? I compare with a Progressive Link, and find that if I don't lead the lady to turn to PP before the end of 1 (by starting the body turn to R just before 'on 2') it's too late, and the lady has to turn herself to PP, as she turns at the end of 1, before lowering the heel. She seems to be in PP at the end of 1, but has not yet changed foot, while the man makes no turn until 2. I'm struggling and would appreciate any advice.

Yes, when counting to 2/4 time, slows and quicks get half of their normal value, e.g. a Slow is 1 beat, and a Quick is ½. Therefore, the timing of QQQQ is 4 beats in 4/4 time, but only 2 beats in 2/4 time.

Regardless of what pattern you dance, beat values are constant. The timing of QQ&S always represents a total of 4 beats in 4/4 time, or 2 beats in 2/4 time. Therefore, the individual beat values of QQ&S are:

In 4/4 time:
1, ½, ½, 2

In 2/4:
½, ¼, ¼, 1

Unlike slows and quicks, which occupy their own space, the "&" count always "steals" it's beat value from a portion the previous count. In 2/4 time, the "&" count represents ¼ beat, so it steals this amount of time from the previous slow or quick. Therefore, in 2/4 time:

The timing of "Quick, &" has a beat value of ¼, ¼.

The timing of "Slow, &" has a beat value of ¾, ¼.

Yes, the timing of QQS& is probably not the best way to make the best use of your movement. It is my belief that the writers of the technique book use this timing to simplify the concept, i.e. they are not changing the fundamental timing of the original component, but rather snipping a tiny bit off the end and adding one extra movement. It's just simpler conceptually. However, for a more effective movement, you are better off using the timing QQ&S.

Regards,
Jonathan Atkinson
www.ballroomdancers.com