Loatzoko Music School, supported by the municipalities of Aduna, Alegia, Altzo, Anoeta, Ibarra, Irura, Villabona, and Zizurkil, has launched a new enrollment campaign for the 2026-2027 academic year to fill remaining spots. Its team, comprising 18 teachers and one administrator, offers nearly 400 students the opportunity to learn music in an enjoyable way and develop ensemble playing skills.

The school's objective is to foster music education and create musicians and groups that meet the needs of the associated towns. Director and teacher Miren Mujika emphasizes that education extends beyond the classroom, and Loatzoko continues this educational work, highlighting the importance of its presence, particularly in small towns.

Workshops are offered for children aged 4 to 7, and from age 8, students can choose from various instruments such as piano, guitar, and trikitixa. However, a call has been made to citizens to encourage enrollment in instruments needed for bands and ensembles, such as the cello, saxophone, trumpet, and clarinet, to ensure the continuation of various activities.

The school also offers a wide range of programs for adults, including opportunities to learn instruments and participate in groups like Anakruxan. Additionally, they form the large and small bands, a string orchestra, guitar and trikitixa groups, dulzainero players, alboka players, and txistu players.

Throughout the year, Loatzoko collaborates with various municipalities, associations, educational centers, and stakeholders. Tomorrow, for instance, it will participate with the dance group Anitz in the performance 'Kaleen oihartzuna'.

Thanks to the new educational decree, Loatzoko has successfully expanded its offerings to individuals over 65. Currently, three groups have been formed in Aduna, Villabona, and Ibarra, predominantly composed of women, focusing on cognitive skills and empowerment through music. Given the high participation, the program will be further expanded next academic year.

Loatzoko prioritizes inclusion, assisting children with functional diversity in integrating into groups and the community. Demand in this area is increasing, and the music school plays a crucial role in the social integration of these community members.

Among future challenges, Mujika points to the instability of professional staff due to the declining birth rate and the significant space occupied by sports, particularly football, at the expense of culture. She also notes a potential decrease in parental willingness to transport children to activities.

The director acknowledges the need to adapt and increase communication efforts while upholding its core values (public service, Basque identity, proximity, and local focus) to keep small towns vibrant.

Finally, she expressed gratitude to the supporting municipalities and parents, and called for continued 'playful engagement with music'.