Horacio Pettorossi, born Gemignani Pettorossi on October 21, 1896, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was a renowned guitarist, composer, and leader, affectionately known by the nickname "El Marqués." Pettorossi's musical journey began at the tender age of five when he started playing the guitar. After completing his primary education, he dedicated himself entirely to mastering the instrument.

Throughout his career, Pettorossi was celebrated more for his exceptional guitar skills than for his compositions, although his works did gain significant recognition. Notable compositions include "Fea," with lyrics by Alfredo Navarrine, first recorded by Ignacio Corsini in 1924 and later by Carlos Gardel. Other collaborations with Navarrine include "Galleguita" and "Torcacita," recorded by Corsini and Gardel.

Pettorossi's early compositions were instrumental pieces such as "Pico de oro," dedicated to the duo Gardel-Razzano, and "El correntino," dedicated to jockey and composer Daniel Cardoso. His piece "La Ñatita" was recorded by José Arturo Severino's group in 1919.

His career included working with José Ricardo in a group of twenty guitars for the play "Juan Moreira" in 1915, where he met Carlos Gardel. He later joined José Podestá’s theater company, accompanying singer Ignacio Corsini and the duo Las Chilenas, who later became Las Porteñas.

Pettorossi formed several musical groups, including Los de la Leyenda and the Alba-Pettorossi sextet, and later Los de la Raza, which included musicians like Emilia García and Mario Melfi. With Los de la Raza, he toured Europe, debuting in Madrid in 1923 and later performing in Germany and France.

During his time in Paris, Pettorossi was part of an orchestra formed by Eduardo Bianco and Bachicha, contributing to the spread of tango music across Europe. He led groups that toured Rumania, Greece, Turkey, and Italy, promoting tango music internationally.

Horacio Pettorossi passed away on December 25, 1960, leaving behind a legacy as a pivotal figure in the world of tango music.