Francesco Paolo Tuzzoliino, professionally known as DJ Martini, started his DJing journey in Houston in 2005. Quickly making a name for himself in the house music scene, he played for prominent events such as the Versace Fashion Show and MINI Cooper grand opening, establishing a firm footing in the DJ scene.

Alongside his growing DJ career, another passion was taking root. Francesco took up Argentine tango dancing in 2007, deeply fascinated by the magnetic force of its music and movements. Spending more time on the dance floor, he began to understand the Argentine tango’s nuanced melodies, harmonies, and the emotional depth it evoked in its listeners and dancers alike.

This newfound love for tango led Francesco to Buenos Aires. Immersing himself in its vibrant dance scene, he had first-hand exposure to the city’s pulsating Milongas. It was here that he discovered contemporary tango orchestras such as “Orquesta Romantica Milonguera,” “Tango Bardo,” and “La Juan D’Arienzo,” whose modern interpretations of traditional tunes further fueled his interest in argentine tango music.

The transition from dancer to tango DJ felt natural to Francesco. By 2018, he was drawing on his passion for music to craft tango sets with a traditional and contemporary twist. This unique approach bridged the gap between classic tango rhythms and modern musical sensibilities, earning him recognition in local milongas and festivals in the U.S., Europe, and Argentina.

As the Portland Tango Festival attendees will witness, DJ Martini’s sets are a testament to his dual identity: a music DJ who seamlessly transitioned into the world of Argentine tango. Offstage, Francesco remains a regular presence in Buenos Aires’ Milongas, constantly evolving and refining his sound and dance.