Tango Reimagined: Piazzolla & Next Gen.

Details

Sumi Lee full profile / Bandoneon, Violin, Piano Trio. / 3 musicians

Other players: Fabrizio Colombo

Full program notes

Experience an electrifying evening of tango as the Trio brings the music of Astor Piazzolla to life alongside stunning new works by contemporary composers, including Latin Grammy winner Pablo Estigarribia. Blending tradition with new sounds, this performance showcases the passion, virtuosity, and rich musical storytelling that define tango today.

Historical context

Tango: A Living Tradition

Tango is more than just music—it is a cultural force that has shaped and been shaped by generations of musicians and dancers. Emerging from the immigrant neighborhoods of Buenos Aires in the late 19th century, tango was born from a fusion of African, European, and Indigenous influences. It quickly became the voice of the people, a way to express longing, resilience, and passion.

Astor Piazzolla revolutionized tango in the mid-20th century, blending it with jazz and classical music to create what we now call tango nuevo. His innovations were met with resistance at first, but they ultimately expanded tango’s expressive potential and global reach. Today, tango continues to evolve, with contemporary composers pushing its boundaries while remaining rooted in its deep emotional and communal tradition.

Tonight’s program celebrates this evolution. We will perform works by Piazzolla, whose music redefined tango for the modern era, alongside new compositions by living composers, including Latin Grammy winner Pablo Estigarribia. These pieces honor tango’s rich history while embracing fresh perspectives, ensuring this vibrant tradition continues connecting and inspiring audiences worldwide.

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