Events » Classical Expressions 2026 » Aotango Quintet
Classical Expressions 2026 presents
Aotango Quintet
Thursday 30 April | 7.30pm
Artists
- Andrew Beer | Violin
- Somi Kim | Piano
- Gordon Hill | Double Bass
- Sam Swindells | Guitar
- Grayson Masefield | Accordion
Programme
‘A Century of Tango’ takes audiences on a musical journey through the evolution of tango, from beloved classics like El Choclo, Por una Cabeza, and La Cumparsita to the revolutionary nuevo tango compositions of Argentinian maestro Ástor Piazzolla.
This concert features world-class musicians performing in Piazzolla’s original quintet formation, blending classical and contemporary instruments to create a dynamic and immersive experience. Designed to be both engaging and accessible, the performance will captivate audiences of all ages and musical backgrounds. The concert will include selections from the repertoire below:
- Tangos: El Choclo (Villodo), En Pampa y la Via ( Jaurena & Torres), Por Una Cabeza (Gardel), A Evaristo Carriego (Rovira), La Cumparsita (Rodriguez), Milonga Triste (Piana), La Bordona (Leopoldo Federico).
- Piazzolla Repertoire: Escualo, Kicho, Series del Ángel (Milonga, Muerte & Resureccion), Oblivion, Michelangelo 70, Soledad, Adios Nonino, Primavera (Spring) & Invierno (Winter) Porteño, Chiquilin de Bachin.
- Waltzes: Que nadie sepa mi sufrir / La Foule (Cabral), Fou Rire (Galliano).
- World Music: Balkan Dance (Trad.), Gnossiene No. 3 (Satie).
Run Time
90 minutes of music, plus interval
About the Group
‘Ao’, meaning ‘world’ in te reo Māori is at the epicentre of AOTANGO. Enjoy their seamless fusion of world music and tango, in an eclectic mix of styles presented by musicians who call Aotearoa their home.
Based in Tāmaki Makaurau, AOTANGO features violinist Andrew Beer (Auckland Philharmonia Concertmaster), pianist Somi Kim (NZTrio), double bassist Gordon Hill (Auckland Philharmonia Principal Bass), jazz guitarist Sam Swindells and world champion accordionist Grayson Masefield.
Supported by Chamber Music New Zealand