Sexteto Mayor is a renowned Argentine classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences around the world for over four decades. The group was founded in 1973 by bandoneon player José Libertella and pianist Luis Stazo, who were both passionate about preserving and promoting the traditional tango music of their homeland. The ensemble's name, Sexteto Mayor, refers to the six musicians who make up the group: two bandoneons, two violins, a piano, and a double bass. This instrumentation is typical of the tango ensembles that emerged in Buenos Aires in the early 20th century, and Sexteto Mayor has become one of the most celebrated and respected groups in this genre. From the beginning, Sexteto Mayor was committed to honoring the rich history and cultural significance of tango music, while also exploring new directions and pushing the boundaries of the genre. The group's early performances were marked by their virtuosic playing, innovative arrangements, and dynamic stage presence, which quickly earned them a devoted following in Argentina and beyond. One of the highlights of Sexteto Mayor's early career was their participation in the 1975 World Tango Festival in Buenos Aires, where they won first prize in the instrumental category. This was a major achievement for the group, and it helped to establish their reputation as one of the premier tango ensembles in the world. Over the years, Sexteto Mayor has undergone some changes in personnel, but the core members have remained committed to the group's mission and vision. In addition to Libertella and Stazo, the current lineup includes bandoneon player Nestor Marconi, violinists Fernando Suarez Paz and Guillermo Fernandez, pianist Pablo Mainetti, and double bassist Horacio Cabarcos. Together, these musicians have continued to push the boundaries of tango music, incorporating elements of jazz, classical, and world music into their arrangements and compositions. They have also collaborated with a wide range of artists from different genres and backgrounds, including jazz saxophonist Paquito D'Rivera, classical pianist Martha Argerich, and pop singer Shakira. One of the most memorable performances in Sexteto Mayor's history was their 1983 concert at the Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires, one of the most prestigious concert halls in the world. This was a landmark moment for the group, as they became the first tango ensemble to perform at the Teatro Colón, which had previously been reserved for classical music and opera. The concert was a huge success, and it helped to elevate tango music to a new level of recognition and respectability. Sexteto Mayor continued to perform at the Teatro Colón on several occasions over the years, cementing their status as one of the most important and influential ensembles in the history of tango music. In addition to their live performances, Sexteto Mayor has also recorded numerous albums over the years, showcasing their virtuosic playing and innovative arrangements. Some of their most acclaimed recordings include "La Cumparsita," "Tango Argentino," and "Más Allá del Sur." Throughout their career, Sexteto Mayor has received numerous awards and honors for their contributions to tango music and culture. In 1992, they were awarded the Konex Award, one of the most prestigious cultural awards in Argentina, for their role in promoting and preserving tango music.

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