From Canada with passion
- Source: Global Times
- [10:50 July 23 2010]
- Comments
Tango dancers Fabian Belmonte (left) and Roxana Haydee Belmonte. Photo: Courtesy of Shanghai Concert Hall
By Guo Song
Tango is closely connected to the warmth and romance of South America. So why are four classical musicians from the cold north of North America sweeping the world with their tango concerts?
Tonight at Shanghai Concert Hall the four Canadian musicians who form Quartango will answer that very question when they present their take on the tango.
All classically trained musicians, the group was formed 25 years ago, inspired to follow in the footsteps of the master of modern tango, Astor Piazolla.
Since then it has dedicated itself to playing sensual, passionate and virtuoso tango music at concert halls around the world. And the musicians' special approach to tango has won them acclaim and new fans all over the world.
It's not a replica of old tango music. "Quartango's music has its own personality and unique sound," said Rene Gosselin, leader of the group.
"Our sound is characterized by elegant tango arrangements, filled with energy and influences from the classical instrumental chamber music repertoire as well as opera, jazz, ragtime and Celtic music," said Gosselin, who plays double bass in the group.
In Shanghai Gosselin will be joined on stage by the other members - violinist Antoine Bareil, bandoneonist Denis Plante and pianist Marie-Eve Scarfone.
Adding to the romance and excitement of the evening will be performances by two Argentinean dancers, Fabian Belmonte and Roxana Haydee Belmonte.
Most of Quartango's sprightly musical arrangements have been created by Richard Hunt who has been the arranger and composer for Quartango since the group was formed and has himself written 20 original works for them.
On its 25th anniversary, the group is traveling for the first time to China and it has prepared for the Shanghai concert a program called "Body and Soul," comprising 17 pieces including some of the most popular and famous tango pieces as well as new works including "Lo Que Vendra" by Astro Piazzolla and "Anclado En Madero" by Richard Hunt. The group is even including its unique interpretation of jazz legend Dave Brubeck's "Blue Rondo Alla Tork."
