Isaco Abitbol
Isaco Abitbol, born Isaac Abitbol on November 29, 1917, in Alvear, Corrientes, Argentina, was a prominent bandoneonist, composer, and a pivotal figure in the genre of chamamé, earning the nickname "El Patriarca del Chamamé." Coming from a Sephardic Jewish family originally from Morocco, Abitbol began his musical journey at a young age, initially playing the bandónica, followed by the piano and bandoneon.
In 1935, he moved to Buenos Aires, where he studied music and bandoneon under Antonio Giannantonio. During his early years in Buenos Aires, he was influenced by Emilio Chamorro, who introduced him to the music of the Argentine Litoral, leading to his involvement with the group "Los Hijos de Corrientes." With Chamorro, Abitbol made his first recordings for RCA Victor and Odeón.
In 1942, alongside Ernesto Montiel, Abitbol founded the "Cuarteto Típico Correntino Santa Ana," which became the first chamamé ensemble to achieve widespread fame. He remained with the quartet until 1951, performing at notable venues like the "Salón Verdi" and on major radio stations.
After leaving the quartet, Abitbol joined Miguel Repiso's orchestra and later formed the "Trío Isaco Abitbol," recording extensively for labels such as Pampa and Music Hall. In 1970, he established the "Trío de Oro" with Julio Lorman and Roberto Galarza, producing several acclaimed albums.
Throughout the 1980s, Abitbol collaborated with emerging musicians, including Antonio Tarrago Ros and "Los de Imaguare," and participated in the documentary "De Ushuaia a La Quiaca." In 1992, he formed the "Trío Pancho Cué" with Antonio Niz and Rubén Miño, marking his final professional endeavor.
Abitbol's legacy includes numerous chamamé classics such as "La Calandria," "Paraje Bandera Bajada," and "Bodas de plata." He passed away on March 6, 1994, in Corrientes, leaving behind a rich discography and a profound impact on Argentine folk music.