Real name Aníbal Carmelo Troilo
Life 11 July 1914 – 19 May 1975
Pseudonyms
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• Pichuco
Occupation
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• bandoneonist
• conductor
• compositor.
Instrument
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• bandoneon
Place of birth Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires
Country of birth Argentina
Citizenship
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• Argentina
TodoTango: Link
Zita and Troilo
Ida Calachi (known as Zita) was born in Greece and came to Argentina as a small child. In 1936, she met Pichuco, and two years later, they became life partners.
Zita accompanied and cared for him throughout his artistic career, and alongside her memories, she preserved the generosity of "Pocholito" (as she used to call him).
Astor Piazzolla dedicated a movement of the Suite Troileana to her, and Horacio Ferrer honored her with the poem Tu penúltimo tango.
She passed away in Buenos Aires on July 1, 1997.
The TK era
The 1950s were a decisive period in the career of Aníbal Troilo, marked by his switch to the TK record label. This era was filled with both personal and professional challenges and changes that would profoundly influence his music and tango in general.
In the early 1950s, Troilo began working closely with Astor Piazzolla, who acted as an arranger and composer. This collaboration had a significant impact on his music. Piazzolla, known for his innovative approach and ability to integrate complex musical structures, brought a new level of sophistication to Troilo's repertoire. Works like Para lucirse, Triunfal, and Lo que vendrá are clear examples of this fruitful association. These compositions not only modernized tango but also enriched it with new harmonic and rhythmic concepts.
However, the recordings with TK were not without problems. Poor recording conditions and technical issues affected the quality of the produced records. Despite these difficulties, Troilo managed to create a series of masterpieces that have endured over time and are still considered tango classics. His collaboration with poet Cátulo Castillo during this period was particularly significant. Together, they produced some of the most emotional and profound pieces in Troilo's repertoire. La última curda, for instance, stands out for both its musical complexity and the intensity of its lyrics, reflecting a deep sense of melancholy and despair.
Innovation in format and sound
Regarding formations and instrumentation, Troilo experimented with different configurations. The inclusion of Roberto Grela on guitar was a notable change that added a new sonic dimension to his music. The recordings of the Troilo-Grela quartet showcased a more intimate and chamber-like side of tango, highlighting Troilo's versatility as a musician. These sessions stood out for their ability to combine technical sophistication with deep emotional expressiveness.
Personal and professional setbacks also marked this era. Despite these challenges, Troilo maintained his creative energy. His ability to constantly evolve and explore new musical horizons kept him at the center of the tango world throughout the decade. Despite the difficulties, Troilo continued composing and recording, demonstrating remarkable resilience and an unwavering passion for his art.
Piazzolla and Troilo
The impact of the collaboration with Piazzolla was evident in pieces like Para lucirse. This work, although titled in a way that might suggest musical fireworks, is actually a piece of great depth. Troilo's interpretation brings the work to expressive heights that anticipate the musical characteristics that would mark the years to come. Through Troilo, Piazzolla managed to bring his experimental and avant-garde ideas to a broader audience, forever changing the perception of tango.
The bond with Cátulo Castillo
Another notable collaboration was with Cátulo Castillo. Works like Che, bandoneón, La última curda, and Patio mío testify to a profound artistic connection. Che, bandoneón is an intimate work that paints an autumnal landscape with a beautiful melody. Castillo's lyrics and Troilo's music create an atmosphere of palpable nostalgia and sadness.
The piece La última curda is perhaps one of the most iconic of this collaboration. The lyrics, reflecting a profound sense of hopelessness, and the music, with its emotional intensity, create a piece that is both heartbreaking and beautiful. Troilo's interpretation of this work has been praised for its depth and sensitivity and has become a tango classic.
A chamber-like tango experience
During his time with TK, Troilo also ventured into new musical territories. The introduction of Roberto Grela on guitar added a new dimension to his music. The recording sessions of the Troilo-Grela quartet showcased a more intimate side of tango, with closer and more personal interaction between the musicians. These recordings stood out for their ability to combine technique with emotion, creating a rich and profound musical experience.
Despite technical problems and poor recording conditions, Troilo managed to produce a series of exceptional recordings during his time with TK. These works stand out not only for their musical quality but also for the emotional depth and innovation they represent. Troilo was able to overcome technical limitations to create music that remains relevant and appreciated to this day.
Toward new horizons: the Odeón period
The end of his time with TK was marked by his switch to Odeón, a label that offered better recording conditions. This change allowed Troilo to continue developing as a musician and to keep exploring new musical horizons. His return to Odeón marked the beginning of a new stage in his career, where he could take advantage of better recording conditions to continue creating high-quality music.
Troilo and Grela
Orchestras
No known group memberships.
Recordings
No recordings found.