A New Generation of Tango Legend
Formed during the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic, Zubek & Pentz’s Piazzolla Duo project emerged from a shared need to remain creative during uncertain times. Inspired by the 100th anniversary of Astor Piazzolla’s birth, the duo created a musical dialogue that bridges continents, combining Argentine tango nuevo with their own distinctly Slavic musical sensibilities.
Based in Warsaw — the resilient city rebuilt from the devastation of World War II and birthplace of Fryderyk Chopin — the duo draws inspiration from a cultural environment where reinvention and artistic energy are ever-present. Their performances are filled not only with virtuoso musicianship, but also with improvisation, humour, stories, and spontaneous “winks” toward the audience.
Although rooted in Piazzolla’s music, the duo approaches it not as historical preservation, but as a living conversation across cultures. Their concerts blur the line between precision and playfulness, balancing emotional depth with lightness and human connection.
After performances in Poland and Latvia, including the Warsaw Fingerstyle Festival and Riga City Festival, Zubek & Pentz now make both their Japan debut and their first performances outside Europe at WMDF. For the duo, appearing in Japan is the fulfillment of a childhood dream and an opportunity to connect with what they describe as one of the world’s most unique audiences.