The Asheville Tango Orchestra isn’t your typical chamber group. In addition to two violins, piano and bass, the orchestra also features a bandoneon. Not quite an accordion, not exactly a concertina, the bandoneon is especially popular in tango music from Argentina and Uruguay.
The orchestra was formed in 2010 as a classic Sextet Tipico by its “talented, passionate, and good looking” members. As we all know, tango musicians must be easy on the eyes.
A full program of tango favorites is planned, but the group is always interested in finding new (or old) music. The orchestra put out a call on their website for anyone who has “old scores hanging out in a suitcase that your grandparents brought with them from Argentina.” Whether you’re family is from Argentina or not, the orchestra invites everyone to get involved.
This spirited group will join forces with AmiciMusic, a new chamber music organization that aims to bring classical music out of the concert hall and into bars and other unexpected venues. Upcoming concerts will include music for clarinet and four-hand piano.
The Asheville Tango Orchestra will perform “Totally Tango” at White Horse Black Mountain on Saturday, Jan. 28 at 7 p.m. $15 for adults; $5 for students and children. Feel free to sit down and enjoy the show or jump up and dance if you’re so inclined. Info: www.ashevilletangoorchestra.org
