Bandoneón arrabalero by Pascual Contursi

Bandoneón arrabalero is a Tango written by Pascual Contursi and composed by Bachicha.

Story behind the Tango Bandoneón arrabalero

The lyrics of “Bandoneón arrabalero” tell the story of a person who finds a bandoneon, an instrument akin to an accordion and deeply associated with tango music, discarded and neglected, analogizing it to a forsaken child. The speaker of the song relates personally to the instrument, feeling similarly abandoned and seeking solace in its melancholic tones. This poignant encounter reflects a narrative of companionship and shared sorrow between the neglected instrument and its rescuer.

Symbolism of Bandoneón arrabalero

The bandoneon in this song symbolizes more than just an abandoned instrument; it represents lost and forgotten souls, resonating with the deep-seated emotional and social alienation felt by many during the time. Each reference to the bandoneon’s “raspy voice” and “painful notes” symbolizes the hardships and the resilient spirit of the marginalized communities in Argentine society, particularly in the arrabales, or outskirts, where tango historically has its roots.

Bandoneón arrabalero in historic Context

Created in 1967, “Bandoneón arrabalero” emerges during a time when Argentina was experiencing significant political and social transformations. These changes often influenced the themes of tango lyrics, fostering a deeper, more introspective look into personal and collective identities. The setting of the song, suggested to be a dilapidated neighborhood (largely identified by the mention of conventillo with unrefined walls and the small light illuminating it), speaks to the urbanization issues and the often-overlooked in the evocative landscapes of Buenos Aires.

Pascual Contursi

Pascual Contursi is noted for being a pivotal figure in the history of tango, integrating lunfardo (slang from Buenos Aires) into the music, which deeply influenced the evolution of tango lyrics towards more narrative and emotionally driven compositions.