Role

:

Conductor Performer

Country

:

Argentina

Birth

:

1914

Death

:

1987

 

Héctor Varela was a renowned Argentine composer, arranger, and bandoneón player who made significant contributions to the development of tango music. He was born on January 29, 1914, in the city of Avellaneda, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Varela grew up in a musical family, and his father was a bandoneón player who introduced him to the instrument at a young age. He began playing the bandoneón when he was only six years old and quickly developed a passion for music. As a teenager, Varela joined various tango orchestras and gained valuable experience playing in different venues. He was a member of the orchestra led by Juan D'Arienzo, one of the most influential tango musicians of the time. Varela's talent as a bandoneón player and arranger soon caught the attention of other musicians, and he was invited to join the orchestra of Aníbal Troilo, another prominent figure in the tango scene. In the 1940s, Varela formed his own orchestra, which quickly gained popularity among tango enthusiasts. His orchestra was known for its unique sound, which blended traditional tango music with elements of jazz and other genres. Varela's arrangements were innovative and sophisticated, and his bandoneón playing was virtuosic. One of the highlights of Varela's career was his performance at the Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires in 1953. This was a significant achievement for a tango musician, as the Teatro Colón was one of the most prestigious concert halls in the world. Varela's performance was a huge success, and he received critical acclaim for his innovative arrangements and masterful bandoneón playing. Varela continued to perform and record throughout the 1950s and 1960s, and his music remained popular with tango enthusiasts around the world. He collaborated with many other musicians, including the singer Alberto Castillo and the pianist Osvaldo Pugliese. Varela's music was also featured in several films, including "El Tango en Broadway" and "El Tango es una Historia." In addition to his musical career, Varela was also a successful businessman. He owned several tango clubs in Buenos Aires, including the famous "El Viejo Almacén," which became a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Varela was also a philanthropist and supported various charitable organizations throughout his life. Varela received many awards and honors for his contributions to tango music. In 1983, he was awarded the Konex Award, which is given to outstanding figures in Argentine culture. He was also inducted into the Latin American Hall of Fame in 1999, and his music continues to be celebrated by tango enthusiasts around the world. Héctor Varela passed away on January 30, 1987, at the age of 73. He left behind a rich legacy of music that continues to inspire and delight audiences today. His innovative arrangements and virtuosic bandoneón playing helped to shape the sound of tango music and cemented his place as one of the most important figures in the genre's history.

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