Tango is a style of music in
2/4 or
4/4 time that originated among European immigrant populations of
Argentina and
Uruguay (collectively, the "
Rioplatenses"). It is traditionally played on a solo guitar, guitar duo, or an ensemble, known as the
orquesta típica, which includes at least two
violins,
flute,
piano,
double bass, and at least two
bandoneóns. Sometimes guitars and a clarinet join the ensemble. Tango may be purely instrumental or may include a vocalist. Tango music and
dance have become popular throughout the world.