The sheer physicality of Piazzolla's playing is fascinating to watch . . . the glowing central movement of the Double Concerto . . . ably illustrates the composer's unerring melodic gift. Here, the Uruguayan virtuoso Alvaro Pierri is ideally cat in the solo guitar role . . . the poignant "Adiós Nonino", written in commemoration of the composer's father, was considered by Piazzolla to be his most beautiful theme. Given the broken-hearted loveliness of the performance it receives here, it would be impossible to disagree with that verdict.

The sheer physicality of Piazzolla's playing is fascinating to watch: standing upright, the bandoneón resting on one knee, with the bellows fully extended, he gives the appearance of a conjuror performing tricks with an entire shelf load of expanding files . . . Taking on the guise of a milonga . . . the glowing central movement of the "Double Concerto" . . . ably illustrates the composer's unerring melodic gift. Here, the Uruguayan virtuoso Alvaro Pierri is ideally cast in the solo guitar role . . . In this classic of the bandonéon repertoire, and perhaps the finest of Piazzolla's more overtly classical works, the Cologne orchestra with Pinchas Steinberg at the helm gives an exuberant, muscular account . . . the poignant "Adiós Nonino", written in commemoration of the composer's father, was considered by Piazzolla to be his most beautiful theme. Given the broken-hearted loveliness of the performance it receives here, it would be impossible to disagree with that verdict.

During the interview there are tantalising snippets of performances . . . Mike Dibbs's biographical documentary is superb.

Astor Piazzolla was a composer who found endless possibilities in the tango, molding it to his whim to express passion or poignancy . . . "The Next Tango" brings us his reflections about his career, charms us with his personality and anecdotes, and documents some outstanding performances. The camerawork throughout is excellent and the creative effects are memorable without threatening the flow of the program. This is an exceptional DVD and essential viewing for anyone interested in Piazzolla and his music.

These excellent performances, combined with Piazzolla's extensive reminiscences, make this DVD essential viewing.

De magnifiques extraits de concerts . . . ponctuent le récit, complété par deux concertos avec le maître au bandonéon et Steinberg ŕ la baguette.