Trikitixa - Basque accordion

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Trikitixa meaning hand-sound in Basque is the traditional Basque accordion. It arrived in the Basque Country from Italy through the port of Bilbao in the 19th century, and soon became a common sight at Basque festivals. However, the Catholic church resisted it, calling it “hell’s bellows” since would its lightning-fast chords would lead Basque youths into dance and temptation.

Modern Basque traditional music includes ensembles of trikitixa, tambourine and voice. Basque players typically use a highly-ornamented and rapid style, along with staccato triplets. The most famous of today’s Basque folk accordionists is Kepa Junkera.

Performance featuring trikitixa with tambourine accompaniment (Wikipedia)





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