José Leonardo Colángelo (performing as “Pepe” Colángelo; born October 22, 1940) is an Argentine tango pianist, composer, and director from Buenos Aires. Colángelo studied bandoneón and accordion before focusing on the piano. Professional activity began in 1955 with the Alberto Dávila orchestra on Radio Argentina. Colángelo performed with ensembles led by Ángel Genta, Ángel Domínguez, and Juan de Dios Filiberto. In 1962, Colángelo joined the group of Julio Sosa and Leopoldo Federico. Following the death of Sosa in 1964, Colángelo performed with Federico and vocalists including Roberto Goyeneche and Alberto Marino. In 1968, Colángelo became the final pianist for Aníbal Troilo, performing at the Teatro Colón and appearing in the film Esta es mi Argentina. Colángelo formed a solo ensemble in 1971. Compositions include “Puerta de barrio” and “Mi tormenta”. Colángelo was named a Cultural Personality by the Legislature of Buenos Aires.
