Los Angeles Tango Academy
Argentine tango classes for all levels, from absolute beginner to advanced
A dance studio specializing in Argentine Tango and related styles.
Photo: Los Angeles Tango Academy via Google
Before your first class
Designed for absolute beginners with no dance experience required; many students report feeling immediately comfortable despite initial nervousness.
Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move your legs freely.
Park in designated spots in the gated parking lot at Motivo LA, or on the street (check signs).
About this studio
LA Tango Academy is one of the leading tango schools in the US, founded by Emma Bogren and Richard Cepeda in 2015. Located at Motivo LA in Atwater Village, the school offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to guide students from their first steps on the dance floor to becoming skillful and advanced dancers.
The academy teaches Argentine tango, a partnered social dance from Buenos Aires that emphasizes improvisation and connection over standardised technique. Classes use music from the Golden Age of tango (1935–1955), and the school maintains a Spotify playlist drawn from over 20 of the greatest Golden Age orchestras including D'Arienzo, DiSarli, Pugliese, Laurenz and Troilo.
The school runs two semesters per year, starting in January and July, with four progressive levels: Tango 100 (beginner and all levels), Tango 200 (close embrace and milonga preparation), Tango 300 (axis and dynamics) and Tango 400 (advanced axis work and soltadas). Each level includes two courses that can be taken in either order or simultaneously. Classes are limited in size and role-balanced, with no partner required to join. Drop-in access is available during the first four weeks of each semester; after that, a monthly commitment is required. Once you advance beyond Tango 100, all previously completed levels are complimentary with an active membership.
Beyond regular classes, the academy hosts a weekly Practica every Sunday from 5:15–7:15pm, Milonga Arrabal (a social dance event) every Wednesday from 9pm–midnight, and Milonga del Sol every third Saturday from 2:00–6:00pm. Private lessons are available for accelerated learning. The school also offers drop-in classes including TangoFit, LegTech and Beginner Bootcamp. Beginner Bootcamp intensive sessions help new students catch up with ongoing classes or prepare for semester enrollment, and the academy occasionally hosts visiting guest instructors for workshops.
The teaching philosophy centres on clear structure, thorough pedagogy and community. The curriculum constantly challenges students as they progress, and instructors examine their teaching practices to stay in touch with the latest concepts in tango pedagogy. More experienced students are invited to support newer dancers, and the school regularly organises events where students can practice, experiment, socialise and have fun.
What to expect
Your first visit
You'll join a class limited in size and role-balanced, so no partner is required. Expect clear instruction in tango fundamentals and connection, with instructors demonstrating and cueing optimal movement mechanics. The studio provides beginner bootcamps as low-pressure entry points, and you can observe classes in advance by emailing the academy.
Instructors
Who teaches here
Emma Bogren and Richard Cepeda are the founders and primary instructors. Reviews consistently praise them as highly skilled dancers and teachers who explain moves clearly, demonstrate effectively, and foster a warm community environment for learning.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
Designed for absolute beginners with no dance experience required; many students report feeling immediately comfortable despite initial nervousness.
What to wear and bring
Before your first class
What to bring
Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move your legs freely. Low-heeled closed-toe shoes are preferred; leather soles are preferable, but hard rubber soles (Puma, Converse, Tom's) work, as do socks if you have no suitable shoes. Character shoes, ballroom shoes or tango practice shoes are all acceptable.
Studio history
LA Tango Academy was founded by Emma Bogren and Richard Cepeda in 2015. The school has been successful in introducing students to tango and helping them gain the confidence and ability to dance and enjoy tango anywhere in the world.
Styles offered
1 dance style taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Los Angeles Tango Academyhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Los Angeles Tango Academy, claiming the studio lets you add a public schedule in about 2 minutes. A free Google Calendar is the easiest path — visitors see your class times inline + can add events to their own calendar.
Frequently asked about Los Angeles Tango Academy
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Los Angeles Tango Academy teach?
Los Angeles Tango Academy teaches Argentine Tango. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Los Angeles Tango Academy located?
Los Angeles Tango Academy is located in Los Angeles, CA. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Los Angeles Tango Academy offer private lessons?
Contact Los Angeles Tango Academy directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Los Angeles Tango Academy teach kids and adults?
Los Angeles Tango Academy welcomes students of varied ages and experience levels. Contact the studio to learn which classes fit your age group and level.
How do I sign up for classes at Los Angeles Tango Academy?
The fastest path is to visit Los Angeles Tango Academy via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.
Is there parking at Los Angeles Tango Academy?
Park in designated spots in the gated parking lot at Motivo LA, or on the street (check signs).