Interviews
Tango First Hand is dedicated to documenting the essence of Argentine Tango by sharing the stories of its maestros. Through in-depth interviews, this initiative captures the experiences, insights, and journeys of the genre's most influential figures, providing a direct connection to the heart of tango's rich tradition - straight from the source.
Tango First Hand
with Hector Del Curto and Pablo Estigarribia
Tango First Hand was an initiative by Héctor Del Curto designed to connect tango maestros with audiences during the pandemic. These streamed sessions were supported by The Argentine Tango Society as part of the Stowe Tango Music Festival Online. We are now working to revive Tango First Hand under the umbrella of Music Intersections, bringing you more captivating stories and essential insights into tango history—directly from the source.
Eduardo Walczak and Pablo Agri
Eduardo Walczak (1929–2023) was a renowned Argentine tango violinist and a key member of Sexteto Mayor since 1983. He helped premiere Tango Argentino in Paris (1983) and Broadway (1985), fueling tango's global revival. With the ensemble, he won the 2003 Latin Grammy, the first for an Argentine tango group.
Pablo Agri, violinist and director of Camerata Argentina, has played with tango legends like Mariano Mores and Horacio Salgán. A Tango Argentino soloist on Broadway (1999), he recorded Agri x 2 with his father, earning a Gardel nod, and contributed to the Grammy-winning Cigala Tango.
Victor Lavallén
Víctor Lavallén is a renowned Argentine bandoneonist, composer, arranger, and teacher with over 75 years in tango. He began at 14 with Los Serranos and later worked with tango legends such as Miguel Caló, Osvaldo Pugliese, and Mariano Mores. Known for his arrangements in Gallo Ciego and El Pañuelito, he co-founded Sexteto Tango and played with Color Tango. Lavallén also led Forever Tango for 18 years. Currently, he directs the Orquesta Escuela Emilio Balcarce, continuing to compose, record, and perform, sharing his expertise with new generations.
Cesar Salgán
César Salgán is an Argentine musician and champion pilot and the son of the legendary composer, pianist, and conductor Horacio Salgán. While his father made an indelible mark on the tango world, César carved his own path as a talented musician and a champion in the Sport 1050 racing category. Despite years of estrangement from his father, César shared a profound admiration for Horacio’s musical legacy, which deeply influenced his own work. César’s contributions to both music and racing reflect a unique blend of artistry and passion, honoring his father’s legacy while creating his own identity.