Close-Embrace.com: You used to have the reputation as an "angry young man". Why was that? You seem like such a nice guy - what happened?

Homer: I think it depends what side of the tango coin you're on (historical, traditional, social, artistic, evolutionary, revolutionary) and what day of the week it is (I tend to sway from one end to the other). This personality trait of either seeming like a "nice guy" or seeming like an "angry young man" has been with me all my life. The truth is that I think too much for my own good (i.e. The Greek Philosopher in me is very active). I feel like I've matured over the years (especially with regards to tango issues), however, not more than a week goes by before some other thought provoking issue arises and I have to find the skills to deal with it. The tango activist is still strong in me as my career continues to unfold. As a social dancer, teacher, DJ, and community guide, I'm always looking to set an example of personal character, artistic/social balance, and respect for all people and things tango related. It's definitely not easy, but it wouldn't be me if I took another path...

Sometimes, admittedly, I still get too angry over a specific tango issue - then it's up to Cristina (my wife) to calm me down (she's keeps me grounded and offers perspective). Up to now I am thankful and pleasantly surprised for the many wonderful tango experiences I have thus far accumulated, and I look forward to many more...whether they're euphoric or extremely challenging!

Close-Embrace.com: What's the story of Homer's Tango Odyssey? How did you come to wear you are now? What are your plans for the future?

Homer: It has been a relatively long (about 8.5 years), eclectic, and concentrated "Tango Odyssey." An obsession that has taken me to almost every social, artistic, and psychological area of tango as well as many physical tango communities (except Buenos Aires - a trip that I will make soon?!). I plan on continuing with this Odyssey, allowing things to unfold in a natural way... Currently, I'm traveling a bit too much and have a full plate of local community endeavors underway (like the non-profit SF based Project Tango group). There are many things yet to be visited, tried, or discovered tango wise. I've learned that I can't push too hard and that just by being in the present moment (healthy, semi-balanced, and sane) I keep the journey alive.

Close-Embrace.com: You told me about the legendary practice group in San Francisco. How did it work? Who was part of it? What was it's impact?

Homer: A long time ago (in my LA years) Jaimes Friedgen, Moti Buchboot, and I would get together and share tango. I learned a lot during those days... It lead me to believe that an open exchange of tango information was the best way to develop a community. The SF practice group was a worthy effort by a small group of local tango dancers to get together and exchange information (especially with new tango material). It served its purpose well and ended soon after my move to SF. New models for tango exchanges (like our SF X-Sessions) are being created to allow the current group of tango dancers (both new students and very experienced) a chance to share knowledge, co-exist, and grow in a positive and open-minded environment (we also have DJ meetings). The impact has been very productive so far in terms of exchanging ideas, community strength and togetherness, and the overall development of tango.

Close-Embrace.com: Why is the alternative music thing so important to you?

Homer: I'm all about balance and allowing the music to evolve. As a tango DJ, I currently consider my style "Old School Alternative." There are many others who are really on the cutting edge... Most of the time, as a DJ I'm happy with "peppering" traditional tango music with a few alternative songs or tandas here and there. This seems to be the most palatable form for most tango dancers to digest (and be introduced to or accept) alternative music. However, sometimes more extreme measures are appropriate - like a completely or mostly alternative DJ gig at a tango workshop to compliment a lot of traditional DJ'ing that may be going on at other times, etc. I feel that the music is continuing to evolve with new tango bands/arrangements/songs or new world genres being offered to the dancers to sample.

Close-Embrace.com: Has your attitude to traditional tango changed in the last few years?

Homer: The more I listen to it the more I like it (and the more I hear)...it's always been like this! I can honestly say that I still feel traditional tango music can be some of the best music to dance to. Especially now that more alternative music is being offered, when I do hear a traditional tango tanda I really relish in it. I can even go a whole evening or two with just traditional music knowing that at some point I'll get a chance to dance and/or DJ "other" music as well. Lastly, I'm picking up the bass guitar in efforts to further my tango obsession, with both an appreciation for traditional tango compositions, and perhaps someday (I need a few years of practice first) be part of a group of future tango musicians bringing new music to the tango dance halls.

Close-Embrace.com: Thanks so much for your time Homer!

Visit Homers web site www.organictango.info to read more about Homer, watch his videos, or find out where he will be teaching next.