Aveliono Flores
Avelino Flores (February 2, 1934 – August 19, 2018) was a distinguished Argentine bandoneon player, composer, and orchestra leader, renowned for his contributions to the genre of chamamé, a folk music style from northeastern Argentina. Born in Lanteri, Santa Fe, Flores was initially drawn to music through the guitar before transitioning to the bandoneon at the age of 17 under the tutelage of Alberto Cian and Humberto Borda.
Flores began his professional career with the group "Los Angeles" and later moved to Mburucuyá in 1958 to join the "Vera-Lucero" ensemble. This period marked the beginning of a prolific partnership with Salvador Miqueri, resulting in numerous compositions and recordings, including works like "Mi juramento," "El mañero," and "El cardal."
In 1964, Flores formed his own ensemble and continued to innovate within the chamamé tradition. He collaborated with prominent musicians such as Tránsito Cocomarola, with whom he recorded "La Topada." His discography includes albums like "Corrientes A Las Malvinas" (1971) and "Montecito" (1977), showcasing his dedication to the roots of Argentine folk music.
Flores's legacy is further enriched by his family, with his sons Rudi and Nini Flores continuing his musical tradition. The trio performed internationally, including tours in France and Holland in 1994. Throughout his career, Flores composed approximately 200 works, including "Homenaje a las Islas Malvinas" and "Montecito."
In recognition of his significant contributions to chamamé, Flores was honored at the "Festival Nacional del Chamame" in Corrientes in 2006. He passed away in Corrientes in 2018, leaving behind a rich legacy in Argentine folk music.