Album Notes

Soon after arriving in Argentina, I began playing piano in the Ateneo, an old theatre converted into a bookstore with a grand piano in the café. Amongst the variety of sheetmusic that I had brought with me, there was only one tango by the name of Adios Nonino. Without having rehearsed the song too many times, I played it casually, carefully following the written notes. After I finished, a man requested that the waitress call me over to his table, and I went over to say hello. He invited me to sit down to drink a coffee and eat a dessert. The conversation began like this, "You played Adios Nonino very nicely, but the tango has to be felt in the blood." It was clear that this style of music was very unique to any I'd ever played before.

I began looking for a tango professor and found myself in my first class with the great Nicolás Ledesma. He handed me a variation of El Amanecer Tango. I began playing, jumping the bass in the left hand. The professor stopped me abruptly. "Connect the bass. This is Argentine tango, not European!"

I quickly learned that the tango, or more importantly, the tango with Argentine passion, is not a style that can be played well without studying. All of these defining moments guided me to immerse myself into the world of tango. I began to listen to all the greats, to go to live music shows, and to study the history of Argentine immigration and the origins of the sadness and suffering that formed the original milonga and tango.

Additionally, I was pleasantly surprised by my unexpected fascination with Argentine folklore music. Each region of the country has its own style and history, and I fell in love with every new style I listened to. The instruments like the charango and the bombo made distinct and georgeous sounds. I was mesmerized by the rhythm of the chacarera and the traditional dances that accompanied the music. The typical tourist comes to Argentina to take enjoy the famous tango, a music known for its sadness and sensuality. I found myself on the other side, exploring a rich folklore music full of happiness and exciting rhythms.

Never in my life have I had such a profound experience with music. My passion constantly deepens for this beautiful country, its people and music. When Manuel and I finished recording the disc in the studio, I said to him, "What a great feeling to know I just finished this project after studying and working for so many months." He looked at me and said, "Or perhaps the project has just begun." I think he's right...

I hope you enjoy my new disc. Studying the music of Argentina led me to a new world of rhythms and melodies. I'm thankful to have had the opportunity to study, listen and meet many incredible professors and musicians in Buenos Aires. I never imagined that I would be able to develop my skills this much as a musician. My time in Argentina has been an inspiring and unforgettable experience.

I want to thank all of the people who supported me in my journey to recording this disc. Many thanks to my professors Marcelo Katz, Nicolás Ledesma and Lilián Saba. Thanks to Manuel Kohan, an amazing guitarist who plays with me in this disc, and more importantly, my great friend. Also, thanks to María Rosa and the Colegium Musicum, to Solana and Alicia Biderman, to my family in the Teatro Ciego, to my friends in the Ateneo and Le Piaf, and all of my friends and family in Buenos Aires. Most importantly, thanks to my mom, dad, and sister for their unconditional love and support.

A big hug for you all,

Ben Raznick

Please visit my web page to keep updated.
www.benraznick.com

Recorded in Casa Frida Studio by Mariano Cuello, January, 2010. Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Additional recordings from Mile High Music by Tyler Gilmore. April, 2010. Wheat Ridge, Colorado USA