Malambo – Alberto Ginastera

Alberto Ginastera is without any doubt the most important Argentine classical music composer. In fact, in my opinion, he is one of the most relevant composers from Latinamerica. He evolved a style that had its basis in the cultural heritage of his native country. Most of the times, this involved the use of folk materials in a self-conscious creative process which put into academic means the music of his country.
The Malambo is a male dance that used to be the battle ground for gauchos to prove their dance power and vigor. Pit fires, local parties and 'payadas' were all good excuses for dancers to show off.
The dance itself is characterised by one dancer performing a series of very complex foot movements in a small area. These steps are performed with background music, usually a guitar and a bombo ( kind of drum)..