description El Ciruja Overview
El Ciruja is a significant tango composition from 1926 by Abelardo Portas. The song’s lyrics, written in *lunfardo*, capture the atmosphere of working-class Buenos Aires and are considered emblematic of the genre. It's particularly notable for its exploration of *guardia-vieja* themes within the *tango-cancion* tradition. Historians, tango scholars, and enthusiasts interested in Argentine musical heritage find El Ciruja a valuable piece representing early 20th-century urban culture.
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When was the tango "El Ciruja" composed?
"El Ciruja" was composed as a significant tango piece in 1926 by Abelardo Portas. It emerged during the era of guardia-vieja tango, capturing the atmosphere of early 20th-century Buenos Aires.
What does the title "El Ciruja" mean in lunfardo?
In the Buenos Aires slang known as lunfardo, a "ciruja" refers to a garbage picker or scrap collector. The lyrics tell a tragic story about a ciruja who ends up in a knife fight.
Who wrote the lyrics for "El Ciruja"?
While Abelardo Portas wrote the music, the evocative lyrics were penned by Francisco Laino. The use of heavy lunfardo in the lyrics is highly emblematic of the working-class roots of traditional tango.
Is "El Ciruja" still danced today?
Yes, the song remains highly popular among tango dancers and musicians studying the classic repertoire. It is frequently played at milongas because of its steady, danceable rhythm.
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