The Theme
The Impact of Music on Basque Culture
This Project’s Title
Music – The Essence of the Basque Community
“Music has always been a very central part of my life, especially Basque music. I was first exposed to Basque music at the Basque dinners my parents hosted for members of our small, rural Northern Idaho community. I wasn’t aware of it at the time, but this was the beginning of my association between Basque music and the community it builds. This initial exposure to Basque music was the catalyst that encouraged me to get more involved in my culture and heritage through learning the accordion and joining Boise’s Basque accordion and pandero band, participating in Basque dancing, and traveling abroad and making international connections with others through music at festivals. Looking back, I can see just how present and impactful Basque music has been throughout my life. It has taken me on a journey full of life-changing adventures and experiences, but most importantly, it has allowed me to connect with so many wonderful people, from strangers to family and friends. That is the power of music, the power to bring us together and forget about our differences. And that is why music is the essence, the soul, of the Basque community.”