Help Preserve the Soul of Tango: The Bandoneón's Legacy

I’m Pablo Jaurena, an Argentine bandoneón player deeply passionate about this iconic instrument that has revolutionized the history of tango. Together with my dear friend and filmmaker Yael Szmulewicz, we’re creating a project that pays tribute to the bandoneon and its musicians in an album and a documentary series: “FUEYERIAS” *. Through this journey, I’ve had the privilege of meeting over 35 bandoneonists from around the world, from Argentina to Japan, including France, Spain, and Colombia. The joy of bringing together the last living legends of the bandoneón –in their 80s and 90s– with the new generations of artists. Through music, recordings, and intimate conversations, we share our stories, reflections, and the profound cultural significance of this extraordinary instrument.

To me, FUEYERIAS is much more than a project. It is a visual and musical testimony aimed at preserving the legacy of the bandoneón for future generations. It’s also a heartfelt tribute from today’s artists to our mentors and predecessors who dedicated their lives to this art form. Over the past 12 months, Yael and I have poured our time, effort, and personal money into this dream. However, we need additional support to complete the recordings and filming so we can share this work with the world.

With your contribution, you can help us preserve the soul of tango and ensure that the story of the bandoneón continues to inspire future generations. This project not only celebrates the evolution and vitality of the bandonéon but also safeguards a cultural treasure that transcends borders and eras. I invite you to join this initiative to ensure that the legacy of the bandoneón endures and remains a source of inspiration and cultural connections. Together, we can bring this story to life!

* FUEYERIAS is a term inspired by the slang word "fueye,” which refers to the bandoneón. This concept encompasses any experience that brings together several bandoneones and evokes a certain playful and experimental spirit that emerges from the gathering of these instruments. It implies a space for meeting, exploration, and collective creation among peers.