Astor Piazzolla: Oblivion Astor Piazzolla's "Oblivion" (1982) is one of the most haunting and recognized pieces of nuevo tango . Originally composed for the 1984 Italian film
), directed by Marco Bellocchio, the work has moved far beyond its cinematic origins to become a staple of modern classical and jazz repertoires. Brisbane House Of Tango Composition and Style The piece is a sentimental ballad written in ternary (ABA) form , spanning 64 bars in the key of : Technically a
, a precursor to the tango, it utilizes a slow, flowing rhythm rather than the sharp syncopation typically associated with traditional tango. Melodic Structure
: The primary motif consists of a five-note descending scale from dominant to tonic ( ), creating a sensation of "sinking" into melancholy. Instrumentation : It was originally scored for bandoneón, piano, and bass Brisbane House Of Tango IMSLP and Copyright Status When searching for this work on the International Music Score Library Project (IMSLP) , it is important to note the copyright restrictions The Origin of the song 'Oblivion' | Brisbane House Of Tango
The piece Oblivion, composed by Astor Piazzolla in 1982, does not currently have a dedicated entry or downloadable score on IMSLP (International Music Score Library Project). piazzolla oblivion imslp
This is primarily due to copyright restrictions. Unlike many classical works on the platform that are in the public domain, Piazzolla’s works—including Oblivion—are still under active copyright protection in most jurisdictions (Piazzolla passed away in 1992, and copyright generally lasts 50–70 years after the creator's death). Key Facts About "Oblivion"
Origin: It was originally composed for the soundtrack of the 1984 film Enrico IV (Henry IV), directed by Marco Bellocchio.
Musical Style: It is one of Piazzolla's most famous "New Tangos" (Nuevo Tango), characterized by its haunting, lyrical melody and melancholic atmosphere rather than the aggressive rhythmic drive found in his other works like Libertango.
Instrumentation: While originally featured for bandoneon and orchestra, it has been arranged for almost every possible instrumental combination, including violin and piano, cello, and woodwind ensembles. Where to Find the Score Legally ” it is legal to download
Since it is not on IMSLP, you can find authorized editions through major sheet music publishers:
Tonos Music: The original publisher for many of Piazzolla's works.
Hal Leonard / Boosey & Hawkes: They distribute various arrangements for different instruments.
Digital Retailers: Sites like Sheet Music Plus or Musicnotes offer legal digital downloads of specific arrangements. Bandoneón (or accordion) String orchestra (violin
If you are looking for a specific arrangement (e.g., for cello, piano, or violin), I can help you find the most highly-regarded edition or a specific publisher for that instrument.
Because the IMSLP situation is legally gray until 2043, most serious musicians buy the sheet music. Here are the best alternatives:
Classical rubato (Chopin) often means "steal time from a note and give it back later." Tango rubato (Piazzolla) is more like a ritardando at the end of a phrase followed by an immediate a tempo at the downbeat. Listen to Piazzolla’s own recording (with his quintet) on YouTube, then mark your IMSLP score with these elastic tempo shifts.