Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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These Tangos, Valses, and Milongas were recorded around the same time. Take a look to discover what else this orchestra—or others—may have recorded during the same week or even on the exact same day.
Guitarra gaucha is a Tango written by Alfonso Tagle Lara and composed by Carlos Sánchez.
The lyrics of “Guitarra gaucha” poetically anthropomorphize the guitar, attributing to it a voice capable of expressing a wide spectrum of human emotions, from laughter to tears. The guitar, as depicted in the song, channels the soul of the gaucho (South American cowboy), resonating with both their joys and sorrows. It sings of love, longing, and loyalty to tradition, suggesting a deep connection between the gaucho’s identity and their land. This connection is emphasized through the emotional depth and range that the guitar’s music conveys—mirroring the complex inner life of the characters it represents.
The recurring use of the guitar in the song “Guitarra gaucha” serves as a powerful symbol of Argentine cultural identity. It embodies the spirit of the gauchos, known for their bravery and free-spirited nature. Each strum of the guitar echoes the heartbeats of the pampas (grasslands of Argentina), blending the individual’s emotions with the larger narrative of the land. Phrases like “A ratos lloras en tu bordona” evoke imagery of the guitar crying, symbolizing the melancholic yet resilient spirit of the people. The mention of the zorzal (a local bird known for its melodious song) further roots the piece in its locale, drawing a parallel between natural and musical expressions of emotion.
Recorded in 1928, “Guitarra gaucha” arrives at a time when Argentine society was experiencing significant changes—politically, socially, and economically. The tango, as a genre, often mirrored these transformations, encapsulating the sentiments and struggles of its people. By infusing traditional elements like the gaucho guitar with contemporary musical styles, this song helps preserve and rejuvenate cultural heritage, a poignant reminder of identity amid evolving landscapes. References to “patria” (homeland) and expressions of love and longing in the lyrics reflect a nation’s nostalgia, amidst rapid modernization, for simpler, bygone days.
Alfonso Tagle Lara was a notable Argentine poet and lyricist, known for his contributions to the tango genre, who deeply embedded national themes and sentiments into his work.