Horacio Avilano

Horacio Avilano (full name Horacio Omar Avilano) is an Argentine tango guitarist born on 24 February 1957 in Argentina. He is widely regarded as a traditional-style tango guitarist, known for preserving the classic essence of the genre while maintaining strong technical skill. His playing style is often compared to that of earlier tango masters, reflecting deep respect for the roots of Argentine tango. 

Avilano began studying guitar at the age of 12 under the guidance of Emilio Solas. By the age of 16, he was already performing alongside his uncle Héctor Arbelo, a musician associated with famous tango singer Julio Sosa. These early experiences played a crucial role in shaping his musical foundation. During his youth, he also performed with his brother Carlos, playing mainly tango along with some Argentine folk music at various venues, gaining valuable stage experience. 

In the early stages of his career, Avilano had the opportunity to interact and collaborate with several important figures in Argentine music. In 1973, he met renowned guitarist Luis Salinas, with whom he later worked on recordings such as Música Argentina, a project that received the prestigious Premio Gardel for Best Folk Album. Over the years, he also recorded and performed with artists like Enrique Espinosa, Juanjo Domínguez, and folk singer Chango Nieto. His participation in television programs, including the final show of Edmundo Rivero in 1982, further strengthened his reputation as a skilled tango guitarist. 

Throughout the 1980s and beyond, Avilano expanded his career by collaborating with various ensembles and notable performers. In 1984, he worked with singer Hugo del Carril and performed with the Cuarteto Colángelo. He was also part of the Cuarteto UB Tango at the Universidad de Belgrano. Since 1998, he has been a member of the backing band of singer Adriana Varela, touring across the Americas and Europe. With her, he recorded projects such as Tango en vivo and contributed to later albums, further solidifying his presence in the tango scene. 

In addition to his collaborative work, Avilano has participated in numerous recordings as a sideman with a wide range of artists, including Nicolás Ledesma, Leopoldo Federico, and others. In 2005, he released his own album Tango explícito with his trio, showcasing his deep passion for tango music. Known for his humility and dedication, Horacio Avilano remains an important figure in contemporary tango, admired for keeping the traditional guitar style alive while continuing to perform and record.