Yes, having a guitarist explain the chords would be very, very helpful. I never had a guitarist explain the chords to me. I always relied on listening and recognizing the chords without knowing what they were. I also explain to beginner students that palos can very much be like American jazz standards. The song “Stormy Weather” can be played a gazillion different ways, but it will always be recognized as “Stormy Weather”. The same is with the others. Alegrias is always identifiable even with variations.

And it always goes back to more and more exposure!

Thanks for your input Tamsen.

For example, the chords in tango are easily recognized once you learn them, and you should also recognize the chords of a coming ciere so that you know when to stop at the strong 6-7 (8 silent) with palmas or footwork.

Eventually, you should also recognize a respire–a breath at the end of the first line or two of a letra–where the dancer can answer with a rhythmic piece of one or two compas, again finishing with the strong 6-7.

All of these things will come if you listen to many, many tangos, especially those con baile.