Piazzolla: Works for Flute & Guitar

Dive into the rich, evocative world of Astor Piazzolla's tango with "Piazzolla: Works for Flute & Guitar," a captivating album that showcases the legendary composer's mastery of the genre. Released on October 8, 2021, via Naxos, this collection features a unique blend of flute and guitar, instruments that were central to early tango recordings and Piazzolla's own musical style.

The album opens with "Histoire du tango," a seminal work that traces the evolution of tango from its humble beginnings in the barrios of Buenos Aires to its acceptance in classical music circles. This four-movement suite is a journey through time, capturing the essence of tango in different eras, from the bordellos of 1900 to the concert halls of today.

Also included are the "6 Études tanguistiques," a set of solo flute pieces that explore various aspects of tango, from the anxious and rubato to the slow and meditative. These études showcase Piazzolla's innovative approach to the genre, blending traditional tango elements with classical techniques.

The album also features arrangements by Vicente Coves and Kazunori Seo, including excerpts from "Suite del ángel," a poignant work that tells the story of an angel's life and death. Other highlights include arrangements of Piazzolla's iconic "Libertango" and "Balada para mi muerte," a haunting ballad that reflects on the composer's own mortality.

Performers Kazunori Seo and Vicente Coves bring their considerable talents to these works, delivering nuanced and expressive performances that do justice to Piazzolla's complex and evocative compositions. Whether you're a longtime fan of Piazzolla's music or a newcomer to the world of tango, this album is sure to captivate and inspire. With a runtime of over an hour, it offers a substantial and rewarding listening experience.

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.