Claudio,
As usual, people raved about your teaching. I heard nothing but positive feedback. Tall Richard and short Gwen were happy….hear this — he usually takes International Tango class at some ballroom Sunday evenings, and he chose not to go! Of course, Philipp and Kathleen enjoyed you, Swiss jokes and all. I’m hoping they will become more committed to learning tango now; like most newcomers, they think Argentine tango is another recreational activity. I think you helped them understand it’s serious business!

You always inject good energy and good dancing basics into our group — it’s good for them and good for Michael and me, we can capitalize on the momentum. Thank you.

When I emailed everyone, as follow up to your workshops, I said next time I will ask you to teach a men’s-only class and I asked for their response. I personally think it would be a really good idea, and it gives the men the extra instruction and confidence they need.

It was a treat to see you and Diane again; thank you for your presence. See you tonight at Billy’s,
Marjorie

“Among his many fine attributes, Claudio is an accomplished and stylish dancer. A generous and enthusiastic teacher, he is truly passionate in his quest to promote Argentine Tango in Vancouver”

Jackson Wong, 4-time Senior Canadian Ballroom Champion and principal Canadian representative to World Championships, currently a professional ballroom dance instructor at the Grand Ballroom, Vancouver.

Feb. 9, 2005

Dear Claudio,

A huge big “thank you ” and hug for getting me going in A.Tango! As a beginner in Argentine Tango, coming to Vancouver on holiday from South Africa, I feel privileged to be one of Claudio’s students.
He is an excellent instructor of Argentine Tango. I find his love of the essence, musicality and soul of the tango inspiring. Through his lessons and Milongas I have met his lovely wife Diane and colleagues Claude and Hazel, Nadia and Gabriela, plus many wonderful and friendly tangueros.

I sincerely thank Claudio for all he has taught me in his Tango lessons and I shall take home happy memories of the Vancouver Argentine Tango Community’s “warm embrace”.

Hello Claudio,
I wish to write to you and the main reason is gratitude. Through you, I want to thank the people of Vancouver for the nice reception we received. The week we presented our show, we got a really incredible audience. I also want to thank you for: – Inviting me to your Milonga del Arrabal which doesn’t need to envy anything in Buenos Aires’ regarding ambiance, music and level of dancing.- The attention you paid us and delicious dinner you offered us, as well as the spectacular work you did on my hair while in Buenos Aires – this cut is exactly what I needed. You are an artist. I’ve only got compliments on it – and they’re for you, too, indeed… I’ll tell you one I specially loved: “Claudio’s art as a hairstylist equals yours as a dancer… both marvellous” Do you like it? I’m very excited about wearing my new look for the next Tango Passion European Tour in December. Dear Claudio, keep in touch and I hope to visit you in early 2005 after my US tour.

Kisses and Hugs,
Silvana Alieri
Dec 13, 2004

As a friend of many years, I have seen Claudio embrace many different hobbies and activities, but I have never seen him as passionate about any of these as he is with tango. I remember when he took his first step of this long journey that so many of us have started down, this shared passion called Tango. Claudio tried to bring me in to the fold, but due to circumstances at the time, I was unable to join in. One fateful night nearly two years ago, Claudio was able to introduce me to the Tango community. I started lessons that same week and Claudio took me under his wings; and with many, many hours of private lessons I became as addicted as he is. I find his patience with beginners infinite, more patience than I have with myself. Claudio’s teaching stimulates creativity and challenges me to keep evolving in my own dancing. On the pretext that I am too advanced, Claudio has attempted to kick me out of his class. Fortunately, all his attempts failed and I intend to remain his dedicated disciple while seeking to improve and refine my tango.

Tango is a way into one’s soul: a quest for metaphysical harmony that manifests itself in the realm of the physical. Harmony is achieved through the union of male and female entities: the man listens to the female voice and understands her demand for beauty. The woman knows how to wait and, trusting the lead, surrender to the music and the moment. Both leading and following are essential components of the aesthetic ideal and the philosophy of tango. Very few understand this and are able to convey it as our ardent dancer and a patient mentor, maestro Claudio Bigler.

Selma
January 1, 2004

Learning the language of tango is both exhilarating and irresistible – as with the process of becoming acquainted with any new language, it can also be awkward and frustrating. Learning with Claudio Bigler, however, is entirely pleasurable: he gently yet masterfully guides one through the movements of close embrace tango. His patience and generosity of spirit, and his kind attention to detail intensify the delights derived from learning the language of the dance.

Linda Morra
Dec, 19, 2003