Oblivion

Argentinian composer Astor Piazolla was born in Mar del Plata, Argentina, in 1921. He soon left his country to live in New York City with his family where he came in contact with new types of music, languages, instruments, and people. Particularly notable were his mastering of the bandoneon, a musical instrument, and his meeting of legendary tango musician Carlos Gardel. Piazolla aimed to revolutionize the tango after returning to Argentina, forming the Octeto Buenos Aires and creating innovative music which fused elements of tango, jazz, and classical music.

Oblivion was composed for Mario Bellocchio’s film Henry IV, the Mad King in 1982 and is one of Piazzola’s most widely popular pieces. This particular piece has less influence from jazz or classical music than his other works, staying true to the emotion of tango. It has been written in several versions—including the klezmer clarinet, saxophone quartet, oboe, and orchestra.