the Basque National Orchestra
“I vividly remember listening to a classically-trained musician play traditional Basque music on a piano as a kid – it was an experience that changed me forever. I longed to experience that again here in the U.S., so discovering the Basque National Orchestra online was nothing short of an amazing, beautiful gift.” – the reviewer, BEO Board Member
The Basque National Orchestra (BNO) was founded in 1982 as a nationwide orchestra committed to educating about symphony music from all periods, emphasizing the creation and expansion of Basque music. The orchestra plays over 100 concerts every season. It performs in the Euskalduna Concert Hall in Bilbao, the Kursaal Auditorium in San Sebastián, the Principal Theatre in Vitoria, and the Baluarte Auditorium in Pamplona. Their current Chief Conductor is Mexican-American Robert Treviño.
The BNO generously offers an abundance of experiences for those of us who aren’t able to enjoy their work in person. Included in their online library are collaborations with other musicians such as Huntza, Kalakan, or Izaro… or the exploration of a Basque composer’s identity such as Ravel, or a piece that incorporates the txistu such as Gutizia, or the incredible blend with Kepa Junkera.
Whatever your jam is, explore what Euskadiko Orkestra offers on their website and YouTube channel, press play, pump up the volume, close your eyes, and enjoy.