The Basauriko Ahots-musika Topaketak (BAT), the choral masses parade of Basauri, will celebrate its special 51st edition between May 9 and 23. This event will commemorate the 80th anniversary of its organizer, the Basauri Koral Elkartea, which was unable to celebrate its 75th anniversary due to the pandemic.
A total of four concerts will be offered. The first three will take place in San Pedro church, while the last one will be held at the Social Antzokia. Admission to all concerts will be free, providing an opportunity for all citizens to enjoy the music.
Throughout its half-century history, the parade has been characterized by bringing together choirs from all over Euskadi, also incorporating an international touch with the participation of musical associations from countries such as Kenya, Cuba, Japan, and the Czech Republic. This year, due to the anniversary, priority will be given to local groups.
The program will begin on Saturday, May 9, with a performance by the Coral Polifónica Piloñesa de Asturias at 7:30 PM. The following Friday, May 15, will be the turn of Basauri's Soinu Bidea, and on Sunday, May 17, the local group Zirzira Ahots Taldea will perform at 8:00 PM and 7:00 PM, respectively.
The highlight of the BAT event will arrive the following week with the concert by the Basauri Koral Elkartea, who will be accompanied by Ugaoko Sare Abesbatza, as well as a string quartet, piano, flute, guitar, bass, and percussion.
“"We wanted to sing the journey of the choir, and when we thought about how to do it, we told ourselves that if our history was like a movie, we should include famous soundtracks that we could relate to our trajectory."
José Ángel Robles, the choir director, stated that it will be a very special night, with videos and lights in addition to the singing. He encouraged all residents of Basauri to attend the Social Antzokia.
