The bandoneon, though not Argentina's national instrument, became the urban expression of tango, deeply rooted in Buenos Aires and Montevideo.
Composition History
Ástor Piazzolla, a key figure in Argentine music, took lessons from Alberto Ginastera for almost five years starting at age nineteen.
Compositional Technique
Ginastera's 'Puneña no. 2' for solo cello, commissioned by Rostropovich for Paul Sacher's 70th birthday, masterfully creates tension between Western art music and the sound world of the Inca Empire.
Interpretation
Tango musicians often have a thorough understanding of classical playing and a taste for instrumental showmanship, as many tangueros were classical virtuosos.
Composition History
Piazzolla's piece 'Vayamos al diablo' was written as a tribute to Ginastera for a 1965 concert in Buenos Aires, uniting the two composers.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Alberto Ginastera, a classical composer, trained with Aaron Copland in the United States, but his works are deeply rooted in the popular traditions of his native Argentina.
Performer Biography
Ophélie Gaillard, the cellist and director of this album, previously released a double album titled 'Alvorada' in 2015, which explored Latin American music.
