Horacio Julián Prestamo was a highly respected maestro and milonguero from Buenos Aires, Argentina, known for his deep connection to the traditional Tango Milonguero style. He has been an active figure in the tango community for over 20 years, both as a dancer and an influential teacher. (above video of him dancing with Silvana Anfossi dancing milonga to Serenata – Francisco Lomuto y Carlos Galarce at yoTango.Festival de Tango Tradicional)
Key Career Highlights
Traditional Milonguero Background: He grew up with tango music playing on the radio and at family gatherings. When he was 16 years old he started to become part of a group living and dancing in La Paternal and under guidance for El Tano Guillermo. He is often cited as part of the generation of dancers who frequented historic clubs like Club Almagro, learning from legendary figures such as El Tete and Susana Miller.
Instruction & Workshops: Prestamo conducted workshops internationally and in Argentina. He has frequently collaborated with other dancers, such as Silvana Anfossi, led seminars at major venues like Lotus Loft in Berlin.
Presence in the Milonga Scene: He was a staple at renowned milongas in Buenos Aires, including Porteño y Bailarín and La Milonga del Morán.
Style and Philosophy: His dancing is characterised by a “grounded walk” and a centred, closed embrace, hallmarks of the authentic milonguero aesthetic.
“Tango is a sad feeling being danced.”
This is here…[miming holding follower in close tango embrace] from the beginning of the tango till the end, a woman enters here and she doesn’t go out until the end of the tango.
The other important thing is to feel…. You have to listen to the orchestra, you have to feel the orchestra.
He sadly passed away on 3 June 2021, however he left a lasting legacy with his smooth, rhythmical and playful milonguero style.
Videos
Please find the first video below of him dancing tango with Silvana Anfossi to Bien Pulenta by Juan D’Arienzo-Alberto Echague at Milonga Tango Brujo – Salón Canning .
Please find a second video below of an interview conducted by Monica Paz from PractiMilonguero with Horacio Prestamo below where he describes his dancing and his way of life.