Exploring Latin Jazz: Analysis & Questions about Nuevo Tango
Feb. 26
I can't loose jazz altogether though, so my research revolves around immersive listening of Nuevo Tango. To my ears, Nuevo Tango does not have a series of textbook patterns, but it holds a distinct rhythmic feel. Listeners associate one sound with Nuevo Tango more than any other - the Argentinean bandoneon. While the bandoneon clearly resides as the primary instrument in Nuevo Tango, it's specific role remains unclear to me. These Questions Arise Around the Bandoneon: How could we describe the specific function of the bandoneon in Nuevo Tango? Nuevo Tango exists as a composed form, leaning more towards the highly structured ideas of Western European art music than the freedom of jazz. While a jazz standard may be a 32 measure series of chords repeated for improvisation, a Nuevo Tango composition involves longer structures. Although composition reigns supreme in Nuevo Tango, the music also contains ample room for jazz style improvisation. Whatever the harmonic foundation, Nuevo Tango composers consistently create a unique texture that spotlights the soloist's distinct sound. My Questions About Nuevo Tango Composition: Jazz has 12 bar blues, rhythm changes, and more - does Nuevo Tango utilize standard forms?