Piazzolla: Aconcagua & Las Cuatro Estaciones Porteñas

Immerse yourself in the rich, evocative sounds of Astor Piazzolla's "Piazzolla: Aconcagua & Las Cuatro Estaciones Porteñas," a captivating exploration of tango music released on June 25, 2021, by Accentus Music. This album is a celebration of Piazzolla's genius, featuring two of his most renowned works: the powerful "Aconcagua" concerto for bandoneon and the enchanting "Las Cuatro Estaciones Porteñas," a series of single tango movements inspired by Vivaldi's famous "Four Seasons."

The album opens with "Aconcagua," a three-movement concerto that showcases the virtuosity of the bandoneon, an instrument central to the tango tradition. The piece is performed with precision and passion by Martynas Levickis, accompanied by the Lithuanian National Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Modestas Pitrenas. The concerto's dynamic range, from the bold "Allegro marcato" to the lively "Presto," offers a thrilling journey through Piazzolla's innovative compositional style.

Following "Aconcagua," the album delves into "Las Cuatro Estaciones Porteñas," a quartet of tangos that evoke the changing seasons in Buenos Aires. Each movement—"Invierno Porteño," "Primavera Porteña," "Verano Porteño," and "Otoño Porteño"—is a masterclass in Piazzolla's ability to blend traditional tango with classical influences. The arrangements, adapted by Juanjo Mosalini, bring out the intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity of these pieces, making them a delight for both seasoned tango enthusiasts and classical music lovers.

With a total duration of 49 minutes, this album is a concise yet comprehensive introduction to Piazzolla's unique musical language. Whether you're a long-time admirer of tango or a newcomer to the genre, "Piazzolla: Aconcagua & Las Cuatro Estaciones Porteñas" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. The album's high production values and the exceptional performances by the featured artists make it a standout release in the world of tango music.

Astor Piazzolla, born in Mar del Plata, Argentina, in 1921, was a revolutionary figure in the world of tango music. As a virtuoso bandoneon player and composer, Piazzolla transformed traditional tango into a innovative style known as nuevo tango, blending elements of jazz and classical music. His compositions, characterized by their emotional depth and harmonic complexity, have left an indelible mark on the genre. Piazzolla's work, though controversial in his home country, has been celebrated worldwide, earning him the title of "the world's foremost composer of tango music" from American music critic Stephen Holden. His legacy continues to inspire, with his moody, evocative pieces captivating audiences and musicians alike.