It takes five to Aotango

The passionate rhythms of tango will underscore Warkworth Music’s next concert at the Warkworth Town Hall on Sunday May 3.

Back by popular demand, the Aotango Quintet brings together five outstanding musicians from across Aotearoa in a performance that blends world music influences with the unmistakable pulse of Argentine tango. The name Aotango reflects this fusion, with ‘ao’ – meaning ‘world in te reo Māori – capturing the ensemble’s global inspiration and local roots.

Performing in the classic formation established by tango pioneer Ástor Piazzolla, the group features Andrew Beer on violin, Lorelle McNaughton on piano, Gordon Hill on double bass, Kathleen Tomacruz on guitar and Grayson Masefield on accordion. Together, they promise a musical journey through the evolution of tango, from its traditional beginnings to Piazzolla’s revolutionary nuevo style.

The programme includes beloved classics such as Ángel Villoldo’s El Choclo, Carlos Gardel’s Por una Cabeza, and Gerardo Matos Rodríguez’s La Cumparsita, alongside works that redefined tango for the modern era. Warkworth Music says the audience can expect an afternoon rich in drama, rhythm and emotion – music that has captivated concert halls and dance floors around the world.

Leading the ensemble is violinist Andrew Beer, winner of Best Classical Artist at the 2020 NZ Music Awards and concertmaster of the Auckland Philharmonia. Described by The New York Times as a “musical gift,” Beer has performed internationally as both soloist and chamber musician. Pianist McNaughton is a specialist in Spanish music with an extensive performance career across New Zealand, Australia and Europe, while double bassist Hill is a long-standing principal player with the Auckland Philharmonia, who has appeared with major orchestras worldwide. Guitarist Tomacruz is a versatile Auckland-based musician originally from the Philippines and accordionist Masefield is a multiple world champion who has performed and collaborated with leading composers across the globe.

The concert, which starts at 4pm, is brought to Warkworth in partnership with Chamber Music NZ.

Tickets are available at the door (cash only) or at www.warkworthmusic.org.