Plazoleta Francisco Fiorentino

Why did Francisco Fiorentino, the “Singer of Buenos Aires”, meet such a tragic end? Plazoleta Francisco Fiorentino, nestled in the Coghlan neighborhood, invites us to explore the life and legacy of this tango legend. This small plaza, tucked between Roque Perez, Jose Pascual Tamborini, and Avenida Ricardo Balbin, honors a man whose voice once filled the grandest tango halls. Francisco Fiorentino, born in the heart of San Telmo in 1905, began his musical journey as a bandoneon player. He eventually found his true calling as a vocalist, becoming the quintessential “estribillista,” singing catchy refrains with various orchestras. His collaboration with the iconic Aníbal Troilo catapulted him to fame. Fiorentino’s emotive vocals became synonymous with Troilo’s orquesta típica, capturing the raw emotion and urban grit of Buenos Aires. His voice, though not powerful, possessed a unique warmth and vulnerability that resonated deeply with audiences. From the smoky cabarets to bustling milongas, Fiorentino’s performances became legendary. He breathed life into tangos like “Gricel,” “Garúa,” and “De Barro,” his interpretations infused with a profound understanding of the genre. His career with Troilo lasted six years, a period marked by intense creativity and widespread acclaim. After parting ways with Troilo, Fiorentino formed his own orchestra, even collaborating with the innovative Astor Piazzolla. Sadly, Fiorentino’s brilliant career was tragically cut short. In 1955, after performing at a benefit concert in Mendoza, he was involved in a car accident. The car overturned near a shallow ditch. Fiorentino, unconscious from the impact, drowned in the mere inches of water. Plazoleta Francisco Fiorentino serves as a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy. Here, amidst the tranquility of the plaza, we can reflect on the ephemeral nature of life and the timeless power of music. Fiorentino’s voice may be silenced, but his spirit lives on in the heart of Buenos Aires and the countless vinyl records that continue to spin his timeless melodies.