It had previously been said that in Argentina ‘everything can change except the Tango’. And then there was Astor Piazzolla, who revolutionised this genre in the mid-20th century. Creating a new genre that would become known as the Nuevo Tango, Piazzolla added influences of jazz and classical music to create his spell-binding music.

The Histoire du Tango, the first work to be feature on this compilation, is a tribute to the development of the Tango, including movements such as ‘Bordel 1900’ and ‘Nightclub 1960’. Originally written for flute and guitar, it is performed here in the version for violin by Piercarlo, one of the artists on the recording. The Études tanguistiques show particular virtuosic elements such as the use of percussive articulation, double harmonics and complex double and triple stops. The collection also includes Celos, as well as Piazzolla’s only work for guitar, the Cinco piezas – an insight into folk melodies and rhythms of Argentinian culture, combined with an unmistakeable streak of classicism.

Violinist Piercarlo Sacco, winner of the 1992 Prix Spécial du Jury at the Yehudi Menuhin competition in Paris, has been hailed as ‘a musician of international standing. An outstanding talent among the violinists of his generation’ (Il Corriere del Mezzogiorno). Also performing on the recording is acclaimed guitarist Andrea Dieci, described as ‘an impressive guitarist’ by The New York’s Times Herald. A sought-after teacher, he is currently based at the Tartini Conservatoire in Trieste.