Shark [Flute Quartet]

《Escualo》 is a work by the Argentinian composer and bandoneon player Astor Piazzolla (1921-1992). It was composed in 1979 for the violinist Fernandez Suárez Paz.
Piazzolla celebrated his 100th birthday in 2021, and his works are still widely performed today. He created a unique musical style that fused elements of classical music and jazz with tango.
The title "Escualo" means "shark" in Spanish. Piazzolla was an avid sport fisherman and enjoyed shark fishing, and the piece evokes the feeling of shark fishing.
The powerful rhythm at the beginning is based on the Uruguayan "Candombe" rhythm, which also influenced tango. The piece is characterized by a constant sense of tension and thrill, with a mix of 6/8 and 5/4 time signatures. (Yuto Yamada)