Astor Piazzolla

Join St. Luke’s Chamber Ensemble and bandoneón soloist Julien Labro for an electrifying performance inspired by Paul Taylor Dance Company’s Piazzolla Caldera, which captures the essence of tango’s fiery passion.

Piazzolla Caldera is a reimagination of tango through the lens of modern dance that has been a staple of the esteemed company’s repertoire for over 25 years. Set to the music of Astor Piazzolla, the Argentine composer credited with pioneering the “nuevo tango” genre, this piece merges traditional tango with elements of jazz and classical music. The Spanish word “caldera,” which translates to “boiler,” mirrors the intensity and fervor that define both the music and Taylor’s choreography, with its sizzling energy and sensual partner dancing. 

The bandoneón, a concertina instrument with an appearance similar to the accordion, originated in Germany but found its true home within Argentina’s tango culture. Piazzolla’s legacy includes pushing the boundaries of the bandoneón’s capabilities, integrating it into new musical styles, and bringing it to the global stage. Labro, hailed as one of today’s foremost bandoneón virtuosos, pays homage to this tradition in the eclectic musical influences that infuse his riveting playing. 

Underwriting for OSL’s 2023-2024 Visionary Sounds has generously been provided by Alden Toevs