SACRED CONCERTS 2010
March/02/2010
The Biotz Alai
will perform its traditional sacred concerts close to
the Easter dates. These concerts have been going on for
more than 10 years; this year they will be held at
Saint Nicholas Church in Algorta, at 8pm on March 26th
, as well as on March 29th at 8pm at the Residence
Jesuit Fathers Church in Bilbao. The choir will be
joined by the Euskal Kamerata Orkestra, also conducted
by Josu Soldevilla, the choir conductor. The
performance is solely focused on Vicente Goicoechea,
Basque composer born in Aramaiona, who is one of the
most famous Spanish polyphonysts, and most interpreted
at concerts. The core of the concert will be the Mass
in Honour of the Immaculate Virgin Mary, along with
other pieces by the same composer dedicated to the
Virgin, such as Christmas Fasting, Ave Maria, Ave verum
corpus and Salve Regina.
HUGE SUCCESS OF PRO-HAITI CONCERTS
March/02/2010
The concerts
performed in Algorta and Romo by the Biotz Alai and
Ondarreta Choral last February 12th and 13th were
hugely successful; attended by large audiences which
completely filled both churches where the concerts were
held as well as collecting a very high sum, which was
the reason for these concerts, towards the relief funds
for Haiti after the terrible earthquake underwent there
last January.
Envelopes were passed around at each concert so that everyone could make their contribution at the end of each concert; a total taking of 11.200 Euros was handed over to Mikel Ruiz, Caritas Bilbao Director, at Getxo Town Hall’s Assembly Hall, witnessed by Mayor Imanol Landa.
The Biotz Alai wishes to thank its choir, members and followers for the contributions towards this cause, as well as thanking the Town Hall for the concert infrastructure-posters, handouts, PA system, etc
Envelopes were passed around at each concert so that everyone could make their contribution at the end of each concert; a total taking of 11.200 Euros was handed over to Mikel Ruiz, Caritas Bilbao Director, at Getxo Town Hall’s Assembly Hall, witnessed by Mayor Imanol Landa.
The Biotz Alai wishes to thank its choir, members and followers for the contributions towards this cause, as well as thanking the Town Hall for the concert infrastructure-posters, handouts, PA system, etc
Press release of Ayuntamiento de Getxo (II)
February/24/2010
Los coros Biotz
Alai de Algorta y Ondarreta de Las Arenas han entregado
a Cáritas Internacional un cheque por valor de
11.111€, cantidad que irá destinada a sufragar la
labor solidaria que esta organización desarrolla en
Haití, país asolado tras el terremoto del pasado 12 de
enero. La práctica totalidad de esa cantidad se recaudó
en los dos conciertos solidarios que se celebraron los
días 12 y 13 de febrero en las parroquias San José
Obrero de Romo y San Nicolas de Bari de Algorta.
Tanto Txema Batarrita, presidente del Biotz Alai, como Pablo Diaz-Guardamino, de Ondarreta, han mostrado su satisfacción por la gran acogida que tuvo esta iniciativa y han agradecido a todas las personas que realizaron un donativo.
El Ayuntamiento de Getxo colaboró al aportar infraestructura y medios para la difusión de los conciertos. Imanol Landa, alcalde de Getxo, ha insistido en que “una vez más, las y los getxotarras han mostrado su lado más solidario. Me siento muy orgulloso de que una iniciativa surgida del pueblo haya conseguido un resultado tan positivo”. Previamente, el Ayuntamiento ya había aprobado otra ayuda de emergencia con destino a Haití, de 6.000€, que será gestionada por la Asociación de Municipios Vascos-EUDEL.
(*) Para acceder a fotografías http://www.getxo.net/prensa. Contraseña: fotosycortes
Rogamos la difusión de esta nota. Agradecemos la atención que siempre nos prestáis. Atentamente
IMAGES
Tanto Txema Batarrita, presidente del Biotz Alai, como Pablo Diaz-Guardamino, de Ondarreta, han mostrado su satisfacción por la gran acogida que tuvo esta iniciativa y han agradecido a todas las personas que realizaron un donativo.
El Ayuntamiento de Getxo colaboró al aportar infraestructura y medios para la difusión de los conciertos. Imanol Landa, alcalde de Getxo, ha insistido en que “una vez más, las y los getxotarras han mostrado su lado más solidario. Me siento muy orgulloso de que una iniciativa surgida del pueblo haya conseguido un resultado tan positivo”. Previamente, el Ayuntamiento ya había aprobado otra ayuda de emergencia con destino a Haití, de 6.000€, que será gestionada por la Asociación de Municipios Vascos-EUDEL.
(*) Para acceder a fotografías http://www.getxo.net/prensa. Contraseña: fotosycortes
Rogamos la difusión de esta nota. Agradecemos la atención que siempre nos prestáis. Atentamente
IMAGES
Press release of Ayuntamiento de Getxo
February/09/2010
Los
coros Biotz Alai de Algorta y Ondarreta de Las Arenas,
con la colaboración del Ayuntamiento de Getxo,
ofrecerán dos conciertos solidarios conjuntos cuya
recaudación se destinará integramente a Haití. Los
conciertos tendrán lugar el viernes 12, en la parroquia
San José Obrero de Romo, a las 20:15h., y el sábado 13,
a las 20:00h., en la parroquia San Nicolas de Bari de
Algorta.
El alcalde de Getxo, Imanol Landa, en rueda de prensa,
ha mostrado su orgullo por la puesta en marcha de esta
iniciativa que “es una clara muestra del
compromiso que, en muchas ocasiones, muestra el rico
tejido asociativo existente en el municipio. El
Ayuntamiento de Getxo ya ha aprobado una ayuda de
emergencia de 6.000€, que será canalizada a
través de Eudel, pero esta iniciativa es quizá más
importante porque ha surgido del pueblo, de dos de los
coros más representativos y reconocidos del municipio.
Muestra el carácter solidario y la conciencia que
tienen las y los getxotarras frente al sufrimiento de
los demás”.
Los presidentes del Biotz Alai, Txema Batarrita, y de
Ondarreta, Pablo-Diaz Guardamino han mostrado también
su ilusión por esta iniciativa que, según han señalado,
ha tenido ya una muy buena acogida entre las personas
que la han conocido (incluso han comenzado ya a recibir
donativos en sus respectivas sedes). Han querido
también dejar claro que son dos coros hermanos, con una
excelente relación, y cuya colaboración conjunta se
verá, a buen seguro, en otras iniciativas en un futuro.
Los conciertos serán conjuntos, es decir, los dos coros
cantarán en los dos conciertos y ambos interpretarán
alguna pieza religiosa y algunas de las canciones
populares más representativas de sus respectivos
repertorios.
Cada uno de los coros aportará 1.000€ a esta
iniciativa y la recaudación íntegra se entregará a
Cáritas Internacional. Además, se ha abierto una cuenta
en la BBK para quienes quieran aportar su donativo:
“Coro Biotz Alai. Ondarreta-Biotz Alai pro
Haiti” 2095 002200 9110331024.
La ONU ha asignado a Cáritas la gestión del campo de
Pétionville Country Club en el que están acogidas
20.000 personas durante el día y hasta 50.000 durante
la noche. Esta organización ha movilizado en Haití a 32
redes parroquiales y a 58 sacerdotes, encargados de
asegurar que la asistencia llegue a las personas
más necesitadas.
(*) Para acceder a declaraciones y fotografías:
http://www.getxo.net/prensa.
Contraseña:
fotosycortes
Rogamos la difusión de esta nota. Agradecemos la atención que siempre nos prestáis. Atentamente.
SUCCESFUL XLI BIOTZ ALAI MEMBERS CONCERT IN HOMAGE TO PATXI GARCIA
December/23/2009
On December
19th, the Biotz Alai held its Members Concert, to a
great attending audience and even greater musical
success.
Llodio’s Saint Lucy’s Choir was the guest choir this year, under Beatriz Zurimendi’s baton.
The Biotz Alai offered a completely new selection of pieces during the first part, which included three black soul premiers as well as Madina’s Ku-ku. Traditional carols including Ator, ator and Olentzaro were also performed. This was Josu Soldevilla’s first Members Concert as director and it was a huge success.
The homage to Patxi Garcia was held during the intermission; a highly emotional video with some of his appearances was shown and a wooden carving of the Biotz Alai’s coat of arms alongside his name was given to two of his children.
Llodio’s Saint Lucy’s Choir performed superbly in the second part and the two choirs sang together at the end, performing the soul piece Battle Hym as well as the popular Glory, glory alleluya, which the director had the whole audience sing.
The traditional Members Dinner was held after the concert; more than 200 people were present and it was chaired by Getxo’s Mayor, Imanol Landa. The Biotz Alai sang throughout the dinner thus ending its annual party dedicated to its members. Representatives from the Sestao Orpheum and the Jatorki Choral, two of Patxi Garcia’s favourite choirs along with the Biotz Alai, were present at the dinner
Llodio’s Saint Lucy’s Choir was the guest choir this year, under Beatriz Zurimendi’s baton.
The Biotz Alai offered a completely new selection of pieces during the first part, which included three black soul premiers as well as Madina’s Ku-ku. Traditional carols including Ator, ator and Olentzaro were also performed. This was Josu Soldevilla’s first Members Concert as director and it was a huge success.
The homage to Patxi Garcia was held during the intermission; a highly emotional video with some of his appearances was shown and a wooden carving of the Biotz Alai’s coat of arms alongside his name was given to two of his children.
Llodio’s Saint Lucy’s Choir performed superbly in the second part and the two choirs sang together at the end, performing the soul piece Battle Hym as well as the popular Glory, glory alleluya, which the director had the whole audience sing.
The traditional Members Dinner was held after the concert; more than 200 people were present and it was chaired by Getxo’s Mayor, Imanol Landa. The Biotz Alai sang throughout the dinner thus ending its annual party dedicated to its members. Representatives from the Sestao Orpheum and the Jatorki Choral, two of Patxi Garcia’s favourite choirs along with the Biotz Alai, were present at the dinner
BIOTZ ALAI CHOIR WILL HOLD ITS XLI MEMBERS CONCERT, PAYING HOMAGE TO PATXI GARCIA
December/17/2009
The Biotz Alai
will hold its traditional MEMBERS CONCERT yet another
year at 8pm this upcoming December 19th at
Algorta’s Saint Nicholas Church; the choir thus
shows its gratitude to all its followers’ support
as well as the backup of the choir’s objectives.
This year, the concert will be dedicated to Patxi Garcia who presented the event for more than 30 years; alongside Jose Estankona in the beginning and then after his passing away, as the solo presenter. He had a thorough knowledge of music and choral and had a knack with words; each one of his presentations had its own special rhythm.
An honest man, who lived through many hardships throughout his life in support of his ideals and made it to the end, always loyal to his principles and friends. A true friend of the BIOTZ ALAI, Honorary Member and Gold Insignia of the choir, who managed to make time for the choir and offered precise and wise advice always. The choir now wishes to express its gratitude, and offers this concert to honor him in memoriam.
Traditionally, the Saint Lucia Choir from Llodio will perform as the guest choir, under Beatriz Zurimendi’s baton, performing pieces by Stheele, Salaberri, Masvernat, Sorozabal, etc.
The Biotz Alai will perform its first Members Concert under Josu Soldevilla’s baton; it will prove to be an innovative performance as five new pieces will premier as well as the leaving space for the traditional carols such as Ator, ator and Olentzero, as well as the Azkue’s unforgettable Arrantzalia.
The Members Dinner will take place at the Igeretxe Hotel after the concert; a total of 200 guests are expected to attend, chaired by Getxo’s Mayor, Imanol Landa.
This year, the concert will be dedicated to Patxi Garcia who presented the event for more than 30 years; alongside Jose Estankona in the beginning and then after his passing away, as the solo presenter. He had a thorough knowledge of music and choral and had a knack with words; each one of his presentations had its own special rhythm.
An honest man, who lived through many hardships throughout his life in support of his ideals and made it to the end, always loyal to his principles and friends. A true friend of the BIOTZ ALAI, Honorary Member and Gold Insignia of the choir, who managed to make time for the choir and offered precise and wise advice always. The choir now wishes to express its gratitude, and offers this concert to honor him in memoriam.
Traditionally, the Saint Lucia Choir from Llodio will perform as the guest choir, under Beatriz Zurimendi’s baton, performing pieces by Stheele, Salaberri, Masvernat, Sorozabal, etc.
The Biotz Alai will perform its first Members Concert under Josu Soldevilla’s baton; it will prove to be an innovative performance as five new pieces will premier as well as the leaving space for the traditional carols such as Ator, ator and Olentzero, as well as the Azkue’s unforgettable Arrantzalia.
The Members Dinner will take place at the Igeretxe Hotel after the concert; a total of 200 guests are expected to attend, chaired by Getxo’s Mayor, Imanol Landa.
THE BIOTZ ALAI CHOIR STARTS THE NEW 2009-2010 YEAR OFF
October/20/2009
Upon returning
from the tour throughout Croatia in July with hugely
successful concerts in Dubrovnik and Zagred, which
audiences and the choir itself will recall fondly, the
choir performed its traditional concert at Saint
Lawrence before taking a short holiday in the month of
August. Rehearsals began once again on September 3rd;
all the choralists are back into the choir rhythm and
the upcoming performances are underway.
THE BIOTZ ALAI’S CROATIA TOUR
October/20/2009
The Algorta
choir toured Croatia from July 6th till the 13th,
offering concerts in Dubrovnik and Zagreb as well as
performing in other cities such as Split, Zadar, etc. A
total of 48 choralists, conducted by Josu Soldevilla,
were hugely successful. The concert held at the Saint
Katarina Church in Zagreb proved to be specially
memorable when the choir finished off its concert
repertoire by singing the previously rehearsed
traditional Croatian song Fala (Thanks) as a farewell,
joined by the whole audience on its feet singing the
popular tune along with the choir. The concert held at
the Saint Nousha Church set in the Dubrovnik cathedral
square was also very successful. The choir was joined
on this trip by a large crowd of relatives and
followers, adding up to a total of 120 people.
Josu Soldevilla en UK
October/06/2009
Born in Orduna
and a resident of Bilbao, even so Josu Soldevilla has
been the conductor of Getxo’s mythical choir
since January. Music has always been a part of his
life. When only eight he was already fiddling with
sharps, flats and arpeggios and from then on as a
composer, choir conductor, organist, music professor
and soloist: “music is within me”. The
Biotz Alai offered me the possibility of working with
them three years ago: “They wanted me to conduct
a performance alongside an orchestra. They were very
pleased with the final outcome and everything else just
fell into place from then on.” He is hardworking.
“Sometimes more demanding than everyone thought
at first; we excercise; breathing and
vocalizing…They are becoming more and more aware
of how important it really is. I am willing to improve
at their pace. Soldevilla knows that the Biotz Alai is
more than just a choir for the people of Getxo:
“I know of the relationship between the town and
the choir since the age of 14. Back then I played the
organ at the Trinitarios Church. Once, the Biotz Alai
came along and said, move over kid, we are going to
sing now.” I believe we must make the most of
this relationship in order to attract young people to
us: “They are the future and if we want the choir
to keep on, we need them”. Hence the proposal,
young people.
UK, OCTOBER 200
UK, OCTOBER 200
ALGORTA BIOTZ ALAI CHOIR’S TRIP TO CROATIA AND SLOVENIA
June/30/2009
The Biotz Alai
choir will be travelling to Croatia this upcoming July
6th, where we will offer several concerts as well as
visit this beautiful country.
The group will consist of a total of 120 people, 48 of which are choralists alongside Josu Soldevilla, lead conductor. The choir will give its first concert on July 7th in Dubrovnik at Saint Nousha Church, patron of the city and of rich musical tradition where concerts are held almost daily. The second concert will be held on July 12th at Saint Katarina Church in Zagreb. This concert will be part of the Amadeus Festival, an international cultural festival held during the summer months in the city of Zagreb, which includes musical and drama performances as well as conferences, etc from all over the world.
At these concerts, the choir will offer religious polyphonic pieces such as the Ave Maria by Victoria, Steele’s Ad hoc Templum or Duo Serahin, also by Victoria. A review within the repertoire of Basque composers such as Katalin by Garbizu, Aramburu’s Kitolis and Goizeko Izarra by Santesteban will follow up, along with some Havanans and two popular Croatian songs which the choir has prepared for this occasion.
Whilst in Opatija, we will offer V. Goicoechea’s mass with accompanying organ, at its cathedral.
The choir will return to Algorta on July 13th and its next performance will take place in Bakio on July 25th within the XXV anniversary acts of the local choir, followed by the San Ignatius mass at the saint’s church in Algorta on July 31st. Our last performance before the holidays will be the traditional Saint Laurence concert at the Biotz Alai Square on August 10th.
The group will consist of a total of 120 people, 48 of which are choralists alongside Josu Soldevilla, lead conductor. The choir will give its first concert on July 7th in Dubrovnik at Saint Nousha Church, patron of the city and of rich musical tradition where concerts are held almost daily. The second concert will be held on July 12th at Saint Katarina Church in Zagreb. This concert will be part of the Amadeus Festival, an international cultural festival held during the summer months in the city of Zagreb, which includes musical and drama performances as well as conferences, etc from all over the world.
At these concerts, the choir will offer religious polyphonic pieces such as the Ave Maria by Victoria, Steele’s Ad hoc Templum or Duo Serahin, also by Victoria. A review within the repertoire of Basque composers such as Katalin by Garbizu, Aramburu’s Kitolis and Goizeko Izarra by Santesteban will follow up, along with some Havanans and two popular Croatian songs which the choir has prepared for this occasion.
Whilst in Opatija, we will offer V. Goicoechea’s mass with accompanying organ, at its cathedral.
The choir will return to Algorta on July 13th and its next performance will take place in Bakio on July 25th within the XXV anniversary acts of the local choir, followed by the San Ignatius mass at the saint’s church in Algorta on July 31st. Our last performance before the holidays will be the traditional Saint Laurence concert at the Biotz Alai Square on August 10th.
HUGE SUCCESS AT GETXO’S CHORAL DAY
June/29/2009
Getxo’s
II Choral Day took place last June 21st beneath the
marquis at the Saint Eugene Plaza in Romo
and was
hugely successful both thanks to the participation of
choral groups from all around the council as well as in
audience.
A total
of 9 choral groups took part; Eskuz-eskuz, made up of
white voices solely, several mixed groupings,
Ondarreta, Xoxoak, Irutasun, Gorrondatxe, Itxartu and
Tangora Soinutarrak as well as the Erromo’ko
Kanatariak and the Biotz Alai and as the two deep voice
choirs. The audience readily applauded all the choirs;
special mention to the sensational performance of
Kitolis by the Biotz Alai accompanied by 4 dancers from
the Aratz Taldea Gorliz group who danced the
espatadantza (sword dance).
Koldo Iturbe, culture councilman, handed over to all a figurine in commemoration of the concert and finally everyone joined in singing the Agur Jaunak (Farewell song) under Manuel Torre Lledo, Ondarreta conductor’s baton.
Koldo Iturbe, culture councilman, handed over to all a figurine in commemoration of the concert and finally everyone joined in singing the Agur Jaunak (Farewell song) under Manuel Torre Lledo, Ondarreta conductor’s baton.
Biotz Alai at Roberto Fernández de Pinedo’s book presentation
May/26/2009
Wednesday, May
20th 2009 (Javier Vizcaíno, radio Euskadi)
Robert, the sensible pediatrician
Not even Gala nor Perez Reverte have had such crowded presentations as the one for Roberto Fernandez de Pinedo that took place at the Hikaateneo in Bilbao just a few hours ago.
Full
house (lined with the bilbao -gauch- divine red flags)
at the baptism of The Art of Being sensible
parents…in sickness, the piece which will
transform our beloved Jaio and her publishing house A
Fortiori into the hearts’ desire of high-flying
offices at (amongst others), Planeta and Random House
Mondadori. The editorial wolves will haunt themselves
with the question of ‘How did we not find this
man first?’, whilst adding up in their heads the
amount of euros, dollars and rubles that this book
would have made for them, written by an unbeaten
table-tennis pediatrician, which all his colleagues
would have liked to have written themselves (thanks for
the line, Itzi)…and which all impressionable
parents of the world need to read in order to
understand how comic we can get to be under the strain
of third-night-in-row-coughing or at the forth day with
no sign of bowel movement.
If the aim of the book- to knock drama and fears off- is a good base towards success, even greater is the reward of the language and tone used in Roberto’s 256 pages. Impossible not to go from slight grin to open-out laughter in some parts, always under the impression of reading something that has already been…in first person. I have no doubts the book will be a success, and if Doctor Fernandez de Pinedo is willing to be caught up (I will try to convince him) as an enlightening role in the media, he will no doubt convey his knowledge in a way that could not even be copied by a team of fifty scriptwriters.
Last Sunday we witnessed the premier of The Art of Being Sensible Parents…in sickness. It was on Roberto’s first radio interview and despite being nervous and surprisingly shy, he came out to cheers and hoorahs. I must insist that he take the place of whichever asteroid of the MQ universe he may wish.
Robert, the sensible pediatrician
Not even Gala nor Perez Reverte have had such crowded presentations as the one for Roberto Fernandez de Pinedo that took place at the Hikaateneo in Bilbao just a few hours ago.
If the aim of the book- to knock drama and fears off- is a good base towards success, even greater is the reward of the language and tone used in Roberto’s 256 pages. Impossible not to go from slight grin to open-out laughter in some parts, always under the impression of reading something that has already been…in first person. I have no doubts the book will be a success, and if Doctor Fernandez de Pinedo is willing to be caught up (I will try to convince him) as an enlightening role in the media, he will no doubt convey his knowledge in a way that could not even be copied by a team of fifty scriptwriters.
Last Sunday we witnessed the premier of The Art of Being Sensible Parents…in sickness. It was on Roberto’s first radio interview and despite being nervous and surprisingly shy, he came out to cheers and hoorahs. I must insist that he take the place of whichever asteroid of the MQ universe he may wish.
I wish to create a ‘little’ Biotz Alai (el correo digital 05-16-2009)
May/20/2009
The Biotz Alai
was founded more than 80 years ago as the San Nicholas
Church choir. Nowadays it is one of Algorta’s
important identities. The group is made up of 58
magnificent deep voices, polished off throughout years
of effort, and which has, in recent year taken to
the
spreading
of basque culture and music around the world. The light
hearted men are really a big family who, despite
everyday affairs, never miss a weekly rehearsal. Since
last January, the Orduna-born organist and composer
Josu Soldevilla is in charge of the baton, substituting
Javier Oyarzabal who conducted for 20 years. Soldevilla
is a vocational musician, fine in his manners though
also close at hand, who considers himself as a
demanding conductor. His premier managing these voices
took place on April 7th, with a sacred concert held at
Algorta’s temple.
-What made you take on the Biotz Alai baton?
-I had my first experience with them 3 years ago. It was very productive and although we cooperated for a little amount of time, the results were very interesting. When they first offered me the position as conductor, I initially had doubts as I was very busy at the time, but the truth is I gladly welcomed the idea. It’s an exciting challenge for me. We are going to do important things
-What tasks do you wish to undertake? What will you modify?
-As every conductor, to educate them in singing and voice technique as well as in the style of each musical period. They must be able to manage the diverse musical structures of each period. We must achieve that the audience at a renaissance concert of ours actually feel that they are in the Renaissance. I wish to pass on the knowledge that I have so they can exploit and sell it to the fullest; after all, concert-giving is show business, selling a product.
-What makes this choir special?
-Almost a hundred percent of its members has a magnificent natural voice tone which will allow them to improve after formation, technique and constant work…In these past two months that I have been working with them, I am very proud of the change that comeby and acknowledge its difficulty.
-Most of them are not professional.
-That’s what makes it difficult. Also the fact that they have been performing the same repertoire in the same way for many years…The conductors prior to myself were great musicians, who achieved great goals, but we all work in different ways. I am heading down another path and I think they dealing with what I ask of them.
-What part of the choir do you wish to improve?
-I want to create a ‘little’ Biotz Alai; I stated it upon starting up. I believe it is very important towards the future. We must create a childrens’ choir if we want to support this project, in order for there to be takeover and continuity. It may prove problematic because children nowadays are not open to this work system, they are not attracted to it, although there are some that are capable. I hold high hopes and believe that when the time comes we will conduct a casting within the Getxo schools whereby the ‘little’ Biotz Alai will be formed.
-Are you a fun-loving man?
-Yes. A group cannot live solely on discipline, it must also know how to coexist beyond it. Something very special about this group is that the 40 year-olds get on with the 80 year-olds, others with the 30 year-olds; I enjoy spending time with all of them, drinking a glass of wine after rehearsal. It is something that I have enjoyed doing with all the groups. Thus, they realize that I am not an oddball, just someone to chat with about football, mushrooms, …. Ha, ha.
-What is the next tour?
-We have a couple of concerts lined up but the grand finale will be in Croatia. I wanted to take a sabbatical at first, but the plans were already underway upon my arrival. We will prepare to our best capacity, not only for this tour but everywhere we go.
-Are you already working on it?
-We have been at work for two months. Our first concert took place on April 7th; it was dignified and proved highly successful. I am rarely pleased after a concert, but was after that one.
-How do you think the group is adapting to the new conductor?
-Very well, I think. The fact that practically all the members attend rehearsals, focus so much…has come as quite a surprise to me. We have been able to change due to their hard work. They are very committed. A choir is like a team.
-What made you take on the Biotz Alai baton?
-I had my first experience with them 3 years ago. It was very productive and although we cooperated for a little amount of time, the results were very interesting. When they first offered me the position as conductor, I initially had doubts as I was very busy at the time, but the truth is I gladly welcomed the idea. It’s an exciting challenge for me. We are going to do important things
-What tasks do you wish to undertake? What will you modify?
-As every conductor, to educate them in singing and voice technique as well as in the style of each musical period. They must be able to manage the diverse musical structures of each period. We must achieve that the audience at a renaissance concert of ours actually feel that they are in the Renaissance. I wish to pass on the knowledge that I have so they can exploit and sell it to the fullest; after all, concert-giving is show business, selling a product.
-What makes this choir special?
-Almost a hundred percent of its members has a magnificent natural voice tone which will allow them to improve after formation, technique and constant work…In these past two months that I have been working with them, I am very proud of the change that comeby and acknowledge its difficulty.
-Most of them are not professional.
-That’s what makes it difficult. Also the fact that they have been performing the same repertoire in the same way for many years…The conductors prior to myself were great musicians, who achieved great goals, but we all work in different ways. I am heading down another path and I think they dealing with what I ask of them.
-What part of the choir do you wish to improve?
-I want to create a ‘little’ Biotz Alai; I stated it upon starting up. I believe it is very important towards the future. We must create a childrens’ choir if we want to support this project, in order for there to be takeover and continuity. It may prove problematic because children nowadays are not open to this work system, they are not attracted to it, although there are some that are capable. I hold high hopes and believe that when the time comes we will conduct a casting within the Getxo schools whereby the ‘little’ Biotz Alai will be formed.
-Are you a fun-loving man?
-Yes. A group cannot live solely on discipline, it must also know how to coexist beyond it. Something very special about this group is that the 40 year-olds get on with the 80 year-olds, others with the 30 year-olds; I enjoy spending time with all of them, drinking a glass of wine after rehearsal. It is something that I have enjoyed doing with all the groups. Thus, they realize that I am not an oddball, just someone to chat with about football, mushrooms, …. Ha, ha.
-What is the next tour?
-We have a couple of concerts lined up but the grand finale will be in Croatia. I wanted to take a sabbatical at first, but the plans were already underway upon my arrival. We will prepare to our best capacity, not only for this tour but everywhere we go.
-Are you already working on it?
-We have been at work for two months. Our first concert took place on April 7th; it was dignified and proved highly successful. I am rarely pleased after a concert, but was after that one.
-How do you think the group is adapting to the new conductor?
-Very well, I think. The fact that practically all the members attend rehearsals, focus so much…has come as quite a surprise to me. We have been able to change due to their hard work. They are very committed. A choir is like a team.
Nota del Ayuntamiento de Getxo y entrevista a Josu Soldevilla
April/08/2009
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NOTA DE PRENSA DEL AYUNTAMIENTO DE GETXO
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Entrevista 1 al Director del Coro, Josu Soldevilla
Entrevista 2 al Director del Coro, Josu Soldevilla
NOTA DE PRENSA DEL AYUNTAMIENTO DE GETXO
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Entrevista 1 al Director del Coro, Josu Soldevilla
Entrevista 2 al Director del Coro, Josu Soldevilla
CONDUCTOR REPLACEMENT AT THE BIOTZ ALAI MEMBERS CONCERT
December/28/2008
The Biotz Alai
choir will hold the XXXIX edition of its traditional
Members Concert this upcoming January 10th. This time
the concert will be held at the San Nicolas de
Bari church in Algorta since the local theater, the Getxo Antzokia, has been demolished. The concert will serve as a farewell to Javier Oyarzabal, choir conductor, who after 20 years of service to the choir has to leave due to work reasons. He took charge of the baton at a members concert in January 1989, when Juan Jose Gainza left the position. It was a temporary decision which ended up turning in to 20 years of dedicated service to the choir, sharing success, hard work and many anecdotes which will always be a part of the choir annals. The Biotz Alai will always hold a place in its heart for its “Dire”.
Josu Soldevilla, prestigious musician, will abandon his current choir activities in order to focus exclusively on the position of Biotz Alai choir conductor from now on. We wish him the best of success with the choir and hope that the duration of his “baton” is as long and productive as those who preceeded him.
The Members Concert will begin at 8pm, to be followed by the Members Dinner which will take place at the Igeretxe Hotel.
Bari church in Algorta since the local theater, the Getxo Antzokia, has been demolished. The concert will serve as a farewell to Javier Oyarzabal, choir conductor, who after 20 years of service to the choir has to leave due to work reasons. He took charge of the baton at a members concert in January 1989, when Juan Jose Gainza left the position. It was a temporary decision which ended up turning in to 20 years of dedicated service to the choir, sharing success, hard work and many anecdotes which will always be a part of the choir annals. The Biotz Alai will always hold a place in its heart for its “Dire”.
Josu Soldevilla, prestigious musician, will abandon his current choir activities in order to focus exclusively on the position of Biotz Alai choir conductor from now on. We wish him the best of success with the choir and hope that the duration of his “baton” is as long and productive as those who preceeded him.
The Members Concert will begin at 8pm, to be followed by the Members Dinner which will take place at the Igeretxe Hotel.
Merry Christmas, 2008
December/28/2008
Algorta,
-Navidad 2008-
Queridos amig@s :
Ya estamos de nuevo aquí los del Biotz Alai, para recordaros que llega un año más la Navidad y que queremos enviaros nuestros mejores deseos de Paz y Felicidad para todos vosotros y vuestras familias.
Este ha sido un año importante para nosotros, con la culminación con el concierto del Réquiem de Cherubini, que muchos de vosotros disfrutasteis en el Palacio Euskalduna, junto a la BOS y los coros Easo, Araba y Voces de Pamplona.
Tenemos que anunciaros que, por motivos laborales, nuestro “Dire” Javier Oyarzabal tiene que dejar la dirección del coro por la dedicación que le exige su trabajo y después de 20 años nos vemos obligados a cambiar de batuta. Han sido 20 largos años de trabajo juntos y nos cuesta el cambio, pero nos quedamos con el recuerdo de los logros conseguidos, los buenos ratos compartidos y saber que siempre habrá un sitio para él en el coro.
Le despediremos con un “hasta luego”, en el Concierto de los Socios, que tendrá lugar en la Iglesia de San Nicolás, el dia 10 de enero a las 20 horas. Este año no podemos adelantar entradas a los socios por ser en la iglesia, por lo que os rogamos puntualidad, pues el aforo es menor que en el Antzoki.
Luego nos reuniremos eu una cena en el Hotel Igeretxe, donde nos gustaría contar con vosotros. La verdad es que merece la pena, se canta, se guitarrea, etc. Hasta que el cuerpo aguante.
Queremos anunciaros también, que el coro está preparando un viaje a Croacia en la primera quincena de julio y que hay algunas plazas disponibles para acompañantes. Habrá conciertos en Dubrovnik y en Zagreb. Si quereis más información, pasad por las oficinas del coro.
Esperamos veros en estos actos y si no es así, a todos os enviamos nuestro abrazo y el afecto de todo el BIOTZ ALAI.
LA JUNTA DIRECTIVA
Nota: Las invitaciones para la cena de Socios, se pueden recoger en los locales del coro a partir del 25 de diciembre , al precio de 40 euros.
Queridos amig@s :
Ya estamos de nuevo aquí los del Biotz Alai, para recordaros que llega un año más la Navidad y que queremos enviaros nuestros mejores deseos de Paz y Felicidad para todos vosotros y vuestras familias.
Este ha sido un año importante para nosotros, con la culminación con el concierto del Réquiem de Cherubini, que muchos de vosotros disfrutasteis en el Palacio Euskalduna, junto a la BOS y los coros Easo, Araba y Voces de Pamplona.
Tenemos que anunciaros que, por motivos laborales, nuestro “Dire” Javier Oyarzabal tiene que dejar la dirección del coro por la dedicación que le exige su trabajo y después de 20 años nos vemos obligados a cambiar de batuta. Han sido 20 largos años de trabajo juntos y nos cuesta el cambio, pero nos quedamos con el recuerdo de los logros conseguidos, los buenos ratos compartidos y saber que siempre habrá un sitio para él en el coro.
Le despediremos con un “hasta luego”, en el Concierto de los Socios, que tendrá lugar en la Iglesia de San Nicolás, el dia 10 de enero a las 20 horas. Este año no podemos adelantar entradas a los socios por ser en la iglesia, por lo que os rogamos puntualidad, pues el aforo es menor que en el Antzoki.
Luego nos reuniremos eu una cena en el Hotel Igeretxe, donde nos gustaría contar con vosotros. La verdad es que merece la pena, se canta, se guitarrea, etc. Hasta que el cuerpo aguante.
Queremos anunciaros también, que el coro está preparando un viaje a Croacia en la primera quincena de julio y que hay algunas plazas disponibles para acompañantes. Habrá conciertos en Dubrovnik y en Zagreb. Si quereis más información, pasad por las oficinas del coro.
Esperamos veros en estos actos y si no es así, a todos os enviamos nuestro abrazo y el afecto de todo el BIOTZ ALAI.
LA JUNTA DIRECTIVA
Nota: Las invitaciones para la cena de Socios, se pueden recoger en los locales del coro a partir del 25 de diciembre , al precio de 40 euros.
UPCOMING BIOTZ ALAI CHOIR EVENTS
September/21/2008
After the
successfull selling out of the total available 2,200
seats at the Getxo Habanera and Marine Song Festival
held in the marquis set up in the Chess Square in Las
Arenas, the Biotz Alai Choir will participate in the
upcoming Sixth Autumn Choral Event, to be held at the
Iratxe Monastery in Navarre on Sunday, September 21st.
The mentioned event takes place every Sunday at the
Monastery throughout the month of September. The choir
will interpret religious polyphonic pieces as well as
traditional songs from both Basque and International
origins.
On October 2nd and 3rd the Biotz Alai choir, alongside the Easo Choir from San Sebastian, the Araba Choir from Vitoria, the Deep Voice Navarre Choir from Pamplona will join the B.O.S./Bilbao Symphonic Orchestra, under the baton of its newly appointed director Günter Neuhold, staging the Cherubini Requiem in D major for Deep Voices at the Pay-Season Opening of the Bilbao Symphony Orchestra.
More than 170 choir members will be present on the Euskalduna Concert Hall stage in order to interpret such a magnificent piece, which was composed by the author to be held at his own funeral.
This piece has already been interpreted by the Biotz Alai, alongside the Sestao Choral Society and the Bilbao Symphonic Orchestra, under the baton of Urbano Ruiz Laorden.
The Requiem will be staged on October 2nd and 3rd and the tickets are available on sale at the Euskalduna Concert Hall ticket booth.
Next October 24th, the Biotz Alai will perform alonside the Ondarreta Choir and the Markina Choir at the Andres Isasi Music School in Las Arenas in a charity concert towards the Soriasis Association
On October 2nd and 3rd the Biotz Alai choir, alongside the Easo Choir from San Sebastian, the Araba Choir from Vitoria, the Deep Voice Navarre Choir from Pamplona will join the B.O.S./Bilbao Symphonic Orchestra, under the baton of its newly appointed director Günter Neuhold, staging the Cherubini Requiem in D major for Deep Voices at the Pay-Season Opening of the Bilbao Symphony Orchestra.
More than 170 choir members will be present on the Euskalduna Concert Hall stage in order to interpret such a magnificent piece, which was composed by the author to be held at his own funeral.
This piece has already been interpreted by the Biotz Alai, alongside the Sestao Choral Society and the Bilbao Symphonic Orchestra, under the baton of Urbano Ruiz Laorden.
The Requiem will be staged on October 2nd and 3rd and the tickets are available on sale at the Euskalduna Concert Hall ticket booth.
Next October 24th, the Biotz Alai will perform alonside the Ondarreta Choir and the Markina Choir at the Andres Isasi Music School in Las Arenas in a charity concert towards the Soriasis Association
CHERUBINI’S REQUIEM
June/18/2008
As we have
previously informed, the Bilbao Symphonic Orchestra
will start its pay- season at the Euskalduna Hall with
the Requiem by Cherubini for orchestra and deep voices,
along with the Biotz Alai Choir, the Easo Choir, the
Araba Choir and the Deep Voice Choral of Navarra of
Pamplona, this forthcoming October 2nd and 3rd. We hope
this is a true celebration of music and will promptly
announce matters such as rehearsals, ticket
adquisition, etc.
We shall begin the rehearsals of the joint choirs at the Seminario Diocesano in Vitoria this upcoming July 5th. The choirs will rehearse several times before joining the B.O.S/Bilbao Symphonic Orchestra in two further rehearsals under the baton of its new director Günter Neuhold, who will lead the concerts.
We shall begin the rehearsals of the joint choirs at the Seminario Diocesano in Vitoria this upcoming July 5th. The choirs will rehearse several times before joining the B.O.S/Bilbao Symphonic Orchestra in two further rehearsals under the baton of its new director Günter Neuhold, who will lead the concerts.
FOLLOWING CHOIR EVENTS
June/18/2008
The Biotz Alai
will sing at the gazebo beside the Town Hall square in
Sopelana at 8pm this forthcoming June 29th, festivity
of Saint Peter. This concert is part of the Sopelana
town celebrations programme.
Traditional CORPUS celebration at the Algorta Old Port
June/18/2008
The celebration
of the Corpus Christi festivity, traditionally held at
the Old Port in Algorta, took place last May 25th ; it
included mass followed by the singing of the Biotz
Alai, whilst the people of Algorta and the choir
members enjoyed the tasting of the classic roasted
sardines. As always, the morning proved joyous and the
Biotz Alai interpreted some of its most popular songs.
The Mayor Imanol Landa as well as several of the town
council representatives were also present
BRIEF BACKROUND HISTORY OF THE ORGAN AT SAN NICOLAS DE BARI CHURH IN ALGORTA
March/13/2008
It is a Merklin
organ, manufactured by the prestigious firm
“Manufacture de Grandes Orgues J. Merklin &
Cie”. This company was one of the most important
in Europe in the second half of the 19th Century, and
has its origin in the firm “J. Merklin-Schütze et
Cie” founded by J. Merklin in 1853, who had
learned the trade from his father, the organ-maker
Franz Joseph Merklin.
The success of his organs becomes clear when we witness the vast number that he made, above all in France and Belgium. He was later responsible for the one built in Murcia’s Cathedral, in Spain.
He started to work alongside Joseph Gutschenritter in 1878, who soon became his workshop manager. In 1898, due to family problems, J. Merklin sold the business to Gutschenritter. It is he who is responsible for the most part of the Merklin brand organs that can be found in the Basque Country, ie: the ones in Andoain, Régil as well as the one in Algorta.
In a letter sent to Sebastian Aldalur, priest of Azkoitia, dated May 21st 1907, Gutschenritter confirms that the Algorta organ contract has been signed and that it will be delivered early in 1908. It’s value is of 28.500 pesetas and will be donated to the parish by Mr. José Antonio de Uriarte Sustacha.
Amongst other letters dated May 25th 1908, the organ-maker informs Aldalur that the Algorta organ had been sent off from his workshop ten days previous, and that his workers are already present, ready to install it. He notes that both the parish owner and priest will undoubtedly forgive the delay as soon as they witness the excellence of its sound, and will then feel very proud of it indeed.
There is an inscription on one of the stone walls of the San Nicolás Choir that reads, “Year 1908. In eternal memory of Mr. José Antonio de Uriarte Sustacha. Factory Board”
The success of his organs becomes clear when we witness the vast number that he made, above all in France and Belgium. He was later responsible for the one built in Murcia’s Cathedral, in Spain.
He started to work alongside Joseph Gutschenritter in 1878, who soon became his workshop manager. In 1898, due to family problems, J. Merklin sold the business to Gutschenritter. It is he who is responsible for the most part of the Merklin brand organs that can be found in the Basque Country, ie: the ones in Andoain, Régil as well as the one in Algorta.
In a letter sent to Sebastian Aldalur, priest of Azkoitia, dated May 21st 1907, Gutschenritter confirms that the Algorta organ contract has been signed and that it will be delivered early in 1908. It’s value is of 28.500 pesetas and will be donated to the parish by Mr. José Antonio de Uriarte Sustacha.
Amongst other letters dated May 25th 1908, the organ-maker informs Aldalur that the Algorta organ had been sent off from his workshop ten days previous, and that his workers are already present, ready to install it. He notes that both the parish owner and priest will undoubtedly forgive the delay as soon as they witness the excellence of its sound, and will then feel very proud of it indeed.
There is an inscription on one of the stone walls of the San Nicolás Choir that reads, “Year 1908. In eternal memory of Mr. José Antonio de Uriarte Sustacha. Factory Board”
THE BIOTZ ALAI CHOIR HAS BEEN INVITED TO SWITCH THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTING ON IN GETXO
December/03/2007
The Choir has
been invited by the Town Council to connect the
Christmas lighting in the streets of Getxo this year.
The ceremony will be held next December 4th at 7:00
p.m. in Las Mercedes Street, in Las Arenas. Someone
relevant from Getxo is chosen every year to take part
in this symbolic ceremony that represents the start of
the loving Christmas holidays.
Our choir is very grateful for this deference. We are also glad to represent all citizens from Getxo in the ceremony.
Our choir is very grateful for this deference. We are also glad to represent all citizens from Getxo in the ceremony.
TRIBUTE TO JULEN BILLELABEITIA
October/23/2007
Next October
27th the Biotz Alai Choir will take part in the tribute
that the Basque Country Txistulari Association will be
paying to Julen Billelabeitia, the prestigious
txistulari who is going to be be awarded its Silver
Medal.
For many years Billelabeitia was the conductor of the Txistu Players’ Band of the Uribe Costa district, a txistu player originally from the Itxas Argia Association, and also the conductor of their Santa Ageda Choir. The Biotz Alai Choir will participate in this tribute by performing at 12:00 a.m. in the fields outside the Parish Church of Andra Mari, in Getxo. As well as our choir, Itxas Argia and The Txistu Band of Uribe Kosta will also be performing. Afterwards, there will be a lunch at the Igeretxe Hotel
For many years Billelabeitia was the conductor of the Txistu Players’ Band of the Uribe Costa district, a txistu player originally from the Itxas Argia Association, and also the conductor of their Santa Ageda Choir. The Biotz Alai Choir will participate in this tribute by performing at 12:00 a.m. in the fields outside the Parish Church of Andra Mari, in Getxo. As well as our choir, Itxas Argia and The Txistu Band of Uribe Kosta will also be performing. Afterwards, there will be a lunch at the Igeretxe Hotel
ALL SAINTS’ DAY MASS
October/23/2007
As in previous
years the Biotz Alai Choir will be singing once again
at the All Souls day Mass on November 1st at the
cemetery in Getxo. The choir has sung at this
celebration for many years. Once again they are going
to fulfil their commitment this time
Great success of the Biotz Alai Choir in its tour of concerts throughout Catalunya
August/18/2007
Last July 20th,
the Biotz Alai Choir returned from their trip to
Catalunya where they performed three times, each of
which marked a big success of interpretation and
audience:
A great concert in Salou, in the magnificent setting of the Municipal Teatre Auditori.
At the Monserrat Basilica, the choir performed at 12:30 which meant the best timing possible since the Virolai (hymn in the honour of Monserrat) is sang by the Escolanía (a famous local children’s choir) at 13:00 everyday. Biotz Alai sang a variety of religious polyphony works and some Basque folk songs, and finished at 13:00 singing the Virolai and the Salve Regina.
The concert in the New Church of San Carlos de la Rápita was a memorable one, too. The choir performed beautifully and the large audience ended up standing and cheering.
All singers and their companions, who formed a group of eighty-two, will keep very pleasant memories of this trip.
A great concert in Salou, in the magnificent setting of the Municipal Teatre Auditori.
At the Monserrat Basilica, the choir performed at 12:30 which meant the best timing possible since the Virolai (hymn in the honour of Monserrat) is sang by the Escolanía (a famous local children’s choir) at 13:00 everyday. Biotz Alai sang a variety of religious polyphony works and some Basque folk songs, and finished at 13:00 singing the Virolai and the Salve Regina.
The concert in the New Church of San Carlos de la Rápita was a memorable one, too. The choir performed beautifully and the large audience ended up standing and cheering.
All singers and their companions, who formed a group of eighty-two, will keep very pleasant memories of this trip.
THE BIOTZ ALAI CHOIR CONCERT TOUR IN CATALONIA
June/07/2007
The Biotz Alai
choir is holding a series of concerts in Catalonia this
coming July. They will be taking place between July
13th and 20th as part of a tour the choir will be going
on.
The choir will be travelling with 40 singers and a number of companions that will make the group almost as big as a hundred. They will be travelling to Cambrills on July 13th, which will be their stay’s basement.
The first concert will take place on July 14th at the “Teatre Auditori” in Salou. The building is a beautiful Congress and Exhibition Palace built in 2003. There is a magnificent hall inside it.
On July 16th , festivity of Virgin Carmen, the Biotz Alai will be going to the “Monserrat” Monastery. They will be holding a concert in front of the “Moreneta” (popular name for Monserrat, the patron saint in Catalonia). They will be performing some different religious polyphonic works.
The last concert will take place on July 19th at the “Nova” Church in “San Carlos de la Rápita”. The group will be travelling back to Algorta on July 20th.
The choir will be travelling with 40 singers and a number of companions that will make the group almost as big as a hundred. They will be travelling to Cambrills on July 13th, which will be their stay’s basement.
The first concert will take place on July 14th at the “Teatre Auditori” in Salou. The building is a beautiful Congress and Exhibition Palace built in 2003. There is a magnificent hall inside it.
On July 16th , festivity of Virgin Carmen, the Biotz Alai will be going to the “Monserrat” Monastery. They will be holding a concert in front of the “Moreneta” (popular name for Monserrat, the patron saint in Catalonia). They will be performing some different religious polyphonic works.
The last concert will take place on July 19th at the “Nova” Church in “San Carlos de la Rápita”. The group will be travelling back to Algorta on July 20th.
Corpus Christi in the Old Port of Algorta
June/07/2007
As has become
traditional, the celebrations for Corpus Christi will
take place on June 10th. This is one of the Catholic
Church’s most traditional festivals. For many
years it has been the custom in Algorta to celebrate
this festival in the Old Port, with the performance of
the 12 o´clock High Mass of the Parish of San Nicolás.
It is also traditional for the mass to be accompanied
by the songs of the Biotz Alai Choir, who perform
several works from their popular repertoire.
Tribute to Angel Rdz. De Pinedo
February/02/2007
On February
4th, the town council of Abadiño has organized a
tribute to Angel Pinedo, soloist in our choir, who
sadly died last August. Various popular societies have
agreed to participate and there will be a mass at the
Church of Abadiño at 12.30 pm, followed by a
performance by the Biotz Alai of several songs in the
same church. The tribute will end with a lunch for
those who attend.
The Biotz Alai Choir on Santa Ageda’s Day
February/02/2007
Following the
usual tradition, on February 4th the Biotz Alai will be
out on the streets of Algorta singing the coplas of
Saint Ageda. This custom of singing the Vespas of the
martyred saint in all the towns of the Basque Country
will also be observed in Getxo where, at 8 pm in the
Plaza del Metro, several groups will come together to
sing the coplas of Saint Ageda, directed by our
conductor, Javier Oyarzabal, and featuring the soloists
of our choir.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
December/20/2006
Christmas
2006
Dear Friends,
Once again, the Biotz Alai hopes its music will seep through the cracks in your houses to announce that Christmas is here, that family and friends feel closer, and that even those who are absent appear to be with us. And the Biotz Alai Choir wishes to be part of this celebration in your houses.
In
line with tradition, the Members’ Concert will
take place on January 13th,
at 8 o’clock in the Getxo Antzokia. This
year’s event will be special since we will be
sharing the concert with the Bermeoko Abesbatza and
will use the occasion to name this choir as an honorary
partner of the Biotz Alai, owing to the friendship that
has united the two choirs, with various joint concerts
and the times shared with them in Bermeo.
The members’ dinner will take place following the concert in the Hotel Igeretxe, and we would like to see you all there.
We send you all our best wishes of joy and happiness for your families, and the much wished for peace that the dove on our Christmas card represents.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,
The Board of Directors.
NB: All members can pick up two tickets for the concert from the offices of the Choir, from January 8th onwards.
Invitations for the members’ dinner can be bought from the offics of the Choir for the price of 36 euros, from January 2nd onwards.
Dear Friends,
Once again, the Biotz Alai hopes its music will seep through the cracks in your houses to announce that Christmas is here, that family and friends feel closer, and that even those who are absent appear to be with us. And the Biotz Alai Choir wishes to be part of this celebration in your houses.
The members’ dinner will take place following the concert in the Hotel Igeretxe, and we would like to see you all there.
We send you all our best wishes of joy and happiness for your families, and the much wished for peace that the dove on our Christmas card represents.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,
The Board of Directors.
NB: All members can pick up two tickets for the concert from the offices of the Choir, from January 8th onwards.
Invitations for the members’ dinner can be bought from the offics of the Choir for the price of 36 euros, from January 2nd onwards.
Songs from the trip to Hungary
August/26/2006
We present you
several songs in Hungarian which were sung in the trip
to Hungary in September 1996. We visited a few cities
and towns such as Budapest and Pecs; We also left our
mark there; It was an unforgettable trip for us.
Here are the songs:
- In vino veritas
- Keserü Bordal
- Bordal (To Life)
- Toborzo
PHOTOGRAPHS of the trip to Hungary
Here are the songs:
- In vino veritas
- Keserü Bordal
- Bordal (To Life)
- Toborzo
PHOTOGRAPHS of the trip to Hungary
Corpus Christi in the Old Port of Algorta
June/08/2006
As has become
traditional, the celebrations for Corpus Christi will
take place on June 18th. This is one of the Catholic
Church’s most traditional festivals. For many
years it has been the custom in Algorta to celebrate
this festival in the Old Port, with the performance of
the 12 o´clock High Mass of the Parish of San Nicolás.
It is also traditional for the mass to be accompanied
by the songs of the Biotz Alai Choir, who perform
several works from their popular repertoire.
At the end of the mass, a large table is placed in the plaza of the port, occupied by the members of the Biotz Alai who, conducted by Javier Oyarzabal, perform several works from their choral repoertoire, whilst at the same time enjoying some marvellous roasted sardines, served to choir members and public alike.
This custom was started by Begoña Bretos and Joserra Mendez, from the Bar Arrantzale, who provided the choir with sardines in exchange for their singing, and was later widened to include the public. These days the festival is sponored by the Department of Culture.
At the end of the mass, a large table is placed in the plaza of the port, occupied by the members of the Biotz Alai who, conducted by Javier Oyarzabal, perform several works from their choral repoertoire, whilst at the same time enjoying some marvellous roasted sardines, served to choir members and public alike.
This custom was started by Begoña Bretos and Joserra Mendez, from the Bar Arrantzale, who provided the choir with sardines in exchange for their singing, and was later widened to include the public. These days the festival is sponored by the Department of Culture.
Unreleased CD recorded by the Biotz Alai Choir
June/01/2006
Vintage videos of the Biotz Alai!
May/30/2006
Now you can see
and hear several videos recorded in 1975 (after being
digitalized).
Thes
recordings were made during concerts performed at the
Basilica de Begoña and Buenos Aires Theatre in Bilbao;
how did our choir sound 31 years ago?
For this you will have to download Apple’s Quicktime programme.
For this you will have to download Apple’s Quicktime programme.
The Biotz Alai Choir to take part in the funeral service for Telmo Zarra
February/26/2006
Next Monday,
February 27th at 7 pm, the Biotz Alai Choir will take
part in the funeral service for the former Athletic
Club player, Telmo Zarra, in the Basílica of Nuestra
Señora de Begoña (Our Lady of Begoña)
PRESIDENT OF THE BASQUE GOVERNMENT HOLDS RECEPTION FOR BIOTZ ALAI CHOIR
February/17/2006
On February
16th 2006 the Biotz Alai Choir attended a reception at
the presidential central office, hosted by Juan José
Ibarretxe, President of the Basque Government or
“Lehendakari”, who thanked the choir for
the constant support they have given to Basque culture
and folklore all over the world. Similarly, on behalf
of himself and Basque society as a whole,
he
expressed his gratitude to the choir for the efforts
they made in 1976 when, in a clandenstine and anonymous
manner, and at the request of the Basque government in
exile, they recorded a series of hymns and patriotic
Basque songs, which have
been re-released on a new CD, a copy of which the choir presented to the President.
The meeting took place in a friendly and affectionate atmosphere, and Mr Ibarretxe personally greeted and spoke to each member of the 50-strong choir.
been re-released on a new CD, a copy of which the choir presented to the President.
The meeting took place in a friendly and affectionate atmosphere, and Mr Ibarretxe personally greeted and spoke to each member of the 50-strong choir.
Eve of Santa Ageda
February/01/2006
As is now
customary, on Saturday February 4 the Biotz Alai Choir
from Algorta will take to the streets of Algorta to
sing the traditional popular songs of Santa Ageda. Our
choir will be out and about from 7.30 pm onwards, and
until 10.30 pm will perform both versions of the Song
to the Sainted Marytr, which carries a great tradition
in our country. Through this event the Biotz Alai hopes
once again to share with its followers in Algorta a
tradition which is deeply rooted in our land.
After the Concert (El Correo Digital)
January/09/2006
Music around the Dinner Table
More than 200 people attended the Biotz Alai Members’ Dinner
There isn’t a meeting, lunch or dinner that takes place without the presence of half a dozen amateur photographers, digital cameras at the ready, determined to make their friends pose in order to immortalize them on film. Worst of all, those being photographed are always forced to say, “Cheese!” During the dinner organised by the Biotz Alai for its members at the Igeretxe Hotel, there were more paparazzi than at the average tabloid celebrity bash. Toño Crespo, the usual photographer at such events, faced tough competition. What’s more, those present posed like authentic professionals from the pages of glossy magazines.
It was a very enjoyable evening. There was singing before the start of the dinner, between one course and the next, and after the meal had finished. Before arriving at the restaurant the choristers had had the chance to demonstrate their talents during a concert they performed- for the 34th year- at the Getxo Antzokia. During the two hour concert they revisited their entire discography, including their most recently released CD, “Abertzaleen Euskadi Abestaldia,” which was recorded in Paris in 1976. The concert ended with a tribute to the Zubizarreta brothers- Agustín, Txomin, Ángel and, the only surviving brother, Josan- for their membership of the choir. Relatives of the brothers were present to receive the tribute: Cristina Sarría, Juanita Olabarria, Itziar and Juana Zubizarreta.
Present at the dinner were the mayor of Getxo, Iñaki Zarraoa, and his wife, Arantza Garmendia, Iñaki Albizu, parish priest of San Nicolás de Bari; Txema Batarrita, president of the choir; Mario Porset, vice-president, and his wife, Ameli Llantada; Javier Oyarzabal, an excellent director, and his wife, Mercedes Salaverri; Patxi García, Agustín de Velasco; Gorka García Erauskin and Juan Manuel Sáez.
More than 200 people attended the Biotz Alai Members’ Dinner
There isn’t a meeting, lunch or dinner that takes place without the presence of half a dozen amateur photographers, digital cameras at the ready, determined to make their friends pose in order to immortalize them on film. Worst of all, those being photographed are always forced to say, “Cheese!” During the dinner organised by the Biotz Alai for its members at the Igeretxe Hotel, there were more paparazzi than at the average tabloid celebrity bash. Toño Crespo, the usual photographer at such events, faced tough competition. What’s more, those present posed like authentic professionals from the pages of glossy magazines.
It was a very enjoyable evening. There was singing before the start of the dinner, between one course and the next, and after the meal had finished. Before arriving at the restaurant the choristers had had the chance to demonstrate their talents during a concert they performed- for the 34th year- at the Getxo Antzokia. During the two hour concert they revisited their entire discography, including their most recently released CD, “Abertzaleen Euskadi Abestaldia,” which was recorded in Paris in 1976. The concert ended with a tribute to the Zubizarreta brothers- Agustín, Txomin, Ángel and, the only surviving brother, Josan- for their membership of the choir. Relatives of the brothers were present to receive the tribute: Cristina Sarría, Juanita Olabarria, Itziar and Juana Zubizarreta.
Present at the dinner were the mayor of Getxo, Iñaki Zarraoa, and his wife, Arantza Garmendia, Iñaki Albizu, parish priest of San Nicolás de Bari; Txema Batarrita, president of the choir; Mario Porset, vice-president, and his wife, Ameli Llantada; Javier Oyarzabal, an excellent director, and his wife, Mercedes Salaverri; Patxi García, Agustín de Velasco; Gorka García Erauskin and Juan Manuel Sáez.
Season’s Greeting to Members of the Choir
December/19/2005
Dear Friends:
It is difficult to begin a letter in a way that genuinely conveys what one wants to say to one’s friends, without falling back on the typical clichés. Nevertheless, this year as ever other, we want to find a moment among your Christmas celebrations to express our affection and gratitude for being loyal supporters of the Biotz Alai and, together with ourselves, managing to ensure that this choir, which belongs to everyone, sustains its record of contributing to choral music and, in particular, to Basque Folklore.
This year’s seasonal greetings are accompanied by a photograph taken in front of our beloved church of San Nicolás, the heart of our choir and of some many lives and stories in Algorta. It has been a good year for the Biotz Alai, culminating in the presentation of a new CD which includes songs recorded in 1976, as well as some newly recorded for this release. Most of you will already know the story behind this CD, but the choir would like restate its thanks to all who contributed to the recording.
The Member’s concert will take place on January 7 at the Getxo Antzokia at 8 pm. This year the entire program will be performed by the Biotz Alai, who will be using the opportunity to revisit their recorded discography. As always, after the concert we will celebrate with the traditional “Dinner of Brotherhood”, which will take place at the Hotel Igeretxe.
We wish you all the very best for the New Year, and hope that this Christmas is filled with happiness and that Olentzero brings music and peace to all of you.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
NB: Members of the choir can collect tickets for the concert from the premises of the choir between December 30 and January 4.
Invitations for the Members’ dinner can be obtained from the same locations from December 20 onwards, priced at 36 euros.
It is difficult to begin a letter in a way that genuinely conveys what one wants to say to one’s friends, without falling back on the typical clichés. Nevertheless, this year as ever other, we want to find a moment among your Christmas celebrations to express our affection and gratitude for being loyal supporters of the Biotz Alai and, together with ourselves, managing to ensure that this choir, which belongs to everyone, sustains its record of contributing to choral music and, in particular, to Basque Folklore.
This year’s seasonal greetings are accompanied by a photograph taken in front of our beloved church of San Nicolás, the heart of our choir and of some many lives and stories in Algorta. It has been a good year for the Biotz Alai, culminating in the presentation of a new CD which includes songs recorded in 1976, as well as some newly recorded for this release. Most of you will already know the story behind this CD, but the choir would like restate its thanks to all who contributed to the recording.
The Member’s concert will take place on January 7 at the Getxo Antzokia at 8 pm. This year the entire program will be performed by the Biotz Alai, who will be using the opportunity to revisit their recorded discography. As always, after the concert we will celebrate with the traditional “Dinner of Brotherhood”, which will take place at the Hotel Igeretxe.
We wish you all the very best for the New Year, and hope that this Christmas is filled with happiness and that Olentzero brings music and peace to all of you.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
NB: Members of the choir can collect tickets for the concert from the premises of the choir between December 30 and January 4.
Invitations for the Members’ dinner can be obtained from the same locations from December 20 onwards, priced at 36 euros.
The Biotz Alai launches its new CD
December/18/2005
The launch of
the Biotz Alai’s new CD took place last Thursday,
December 15, at the Hotel Igeretxe. It was an emotional
occasion, as it brought together local notaries,
retired choristers, people connected to the choir and
almost all the current members.
The event was attended by the M.P for Bizkaia, D. Jose Luis Bilbao, and by the Mayor of Getxo, D. Iñaki Zarraoa. They were greeted by the song, “Agur Jaunak”, after which Nekane Ardanza, who hosted the event, handed over to the Choir’s president, Txema Batarrita, who related various anecdotes connected to the recording which took place in Paris in 1976, a moving experience for those amongst the audience who had participated and remembered the occasion. Following this, the audience was first played a song from the old vinyl record of the recording, and then a song from the new CD.
The M.P. praised the work of the Biotz Alai and the contribution represented by the new disc, as well as its record of cultural and political normalisation during those years. To finish, the Biotz Alai, conducted by Javier Oyarzabal, performed two of the new songs included in the CD. .
The event was attended by, amongst others, various councillors from Getxo, Antón Aurre, honorary president of the General Board of Bizkaia, Pablo Diaz Guardamino, president of the Ondarreta Choir, Pablo Velez, honorary president of the Orfeón Choir of Sestao, Patxi Garcia, Ricardo Ansotegui, various ex-choristers, including the brothers Pablo and Iñaki Laka, Julio Solaun, Santos Ariño, Unai Bilabo, Javi Herranz, the txistularis Jesus Mari Mayor and Ander Madariaga, Txaro Ruiz, Belén Gerricabeitia and a long list of friends of the choir. The CD is available to buy in shops for 12 euros, and is distributed by Disconor.
The event was attended by the M.P for Bizkaia, D. Jose Luis Bilbao, and by the Mayor of Getxo, D. Iñaki Zarraoa. They were greeted by the song, “Agur Jaunak”, after which Nekane Ardanza, who hosted the event, handed over to the Choir’s president, Txema Batarrita, who related various anecdotes connected to the recording which took place in Paris in 1976, a moving experience for those amongst the audience who had participated and remembered the occasion. Following this, the audience was first played a song from the old vinyl record of the recording, and then a song from the new CD.
The M.P. praised the work of the Biotz Alai and the contribution represented by the new disc, as well as its record of cultural and political normalisation during those years. To finish, the Biotz Alai, conducted by Javier Oyarzabal, performed two of the new songs included in the CD. .
The event was attended by, amongst others, various councillors from Getxo, Antón Aurre, honorary president of the General Board of Bizkaia, Pablo Diaz Guardamino, president of the Ondarreta Choir, Pablo Velez, honorary president of the Orfeón Choir of Sestao, Patxi Garcia, Ricardo Ansotegui, various ex-choristers, including the brothers Pablo and Iñaki Laka, Julio Solaun, Santos Ariño, Unai Bilabo, Javi Herranz, the txistularis Jesus Mari Mayor and Ander Madariaga, Txaro Ruiz, Belén Gerricabeitia and a long list of friends of the choir. The CD is available to buy in shops for 12 euros, and is distributed by Disconor.
Launch of the new CD “Abertzaleen Euskadi Abestaldi”
December/06/2005
On December 15
the Biotz Alai will officially launch its new CD,
“Abertzaleen Euskadi Abestaldia” which
includes the recording the choir made in 1976 of hymns
and Basque patriotic songs, as well as three new,
recently recorded selections. The CD
contains
songs which could be heard at any of the popular Basque
festivals that year, and which many people would have
learnt from hearing this recording. The disc includes
Eusko ereserkia, a Basque national hymn, and many other
songs such as Eusko gudariak, Batasuna, Jaiki-jaiki
etc. This songs have been taken from the master
recording used for the original release of the record
in 1976, and to complete the CD the current members of
the choir have recorded three new songs with a
distinctly nationalist feel, such as Euskalerriko, Ara
nun diran and Anaiak gara.
The launch takes place at the Hotel Igeretxe, and will be attended by various notaries, political representatives, ex-choristers and people linked to the Biotz Alai. The CD, distributed by Disconor, will be on sale from December 15 and would make a good present this Christmas
The launch takes place at the Hotel Igeretxe, and will be attended by various notaries, political representatives, ex-choristers and people linked to the Biotz Alai. The CD, distributed by Disconor, will be on sale from December 15 and would make a good present this Christmas
Published in the “Correo digital”
December/02/2005
The Biotz Alai Choir are to re-release the hymns they
recorded in Paris in 1976.
ARACELI FERNÁNDEZ/GETXO
( Members of the choir with the original vinyl records)
/ P. URRESTI
Three
decades ago a group of 40 singers from the Biotz Alai
Choir in Algorta began a clandestine journey to Paris.
The purpose was to carry out a mission at the request
of Luis María Retolaza, in the name of the Basque
government in exile. The objective was to record six
Basque patriotic hymns in the French capital,
accompanied by orchestra consisting in the main of
Algerian musicians.
The songs recorded were then made into single vinyl records, but their sleeves did not honour the musicians and singers with their names on them. 2000 copies were produced and secretly distributed, and these songs provided the musical soundtrack during a changing and unstable period in time. The choir now wishes to claim authorship of this recording, and so has decided to re-record these pieces anew, a capella, to be released on CD including additional songs.
On sale in October
Txema Batarrita, president of the Biotz Alai, explains that the original recordings were made during one weekend in 1976. Of those who put their voices to the project, only eight remain active in the choir today. However all involved in the choir share the same feeling of excitement about the project, and the wish to bring this important episode of the Biotz Alai’s history out of the shadows.
The new production will be recorded in September and will be commercially released a month later. The project will cost around 6000 euros, half of which will be provided by Getxo Local Council. The Basque government has also promised to provide economic support, while the choir is willing to provide the remainder of the money that the project will entail.
ARACELI FERNÁNDEZ/GETXO
( Members of the choir with the original vinyl records)
/ P. URRESTI
| CLANDESTINOS. |
The songs recorded were then made into single vinyl records, but their sleeves did not honour the musicians and singers with their names on them. 2000 copies were produced and secretly distributed, and these songs provided the musical soundtrack during a changing and unstable period in time. The choir now wishes to claim authorship of this recording, and so has decided to re-record these pieces anew, a capella, to be released on CD including additional songs.
On sale in October
Txema Batarrita, president of the Biotz Alai, explains that the original recordings were made during one weekend in 1976. Of those who put their voices to the project, only eight remain active in the choir today. However all involved in the choir share the same feeling of excitement about the project, and the wish to bring this important episode of the Biotz Alai’s history out of the shadows.
The new production will be recorded in September and will be commercially released a month later. The project will cost around 6000 euros, half of which will be provided by Getxo Local Council. The Basque government has also promised to provide economic support, while the choir is willing to provide the remainder of the money that the project will entail.
The Biotz Alai Choir celebrate Santa Cecilia
November/09/2005
To mark the
festival of Santa Cecilia, patron Saint of music, the
Biotz Alai will perform various polyphonic works as
part of a mass of rememberance in honour of choristers
and members who have passed away, to take place at 12
noon on Sunday November 27, at the San Nicolás de Bari
church in Algorta. The choir will gather on November 26
for a “Dinner of Brotherhood” and from
1.30pm onwards will take to the streets of Algorta to
sing songs celebrating this festival.
Next concert of the Biotz Alai Choir
November/09/2005
As part of the
events organised by the Club Marítimo del Abra to mark
the coming Christmas Holidays, the Biotz Alai Choir has
been invited to give a concert at the club on November
17. The choir will offer a repertoire of works from
Basque folklore, performing works by Sorozabal,
Aramburu, Santesteban etc., as well as habaneras and
works from its more international repertoire.
New CD in the RIA NERVION series
April/20/2005
The new CD RIA
NERVION IV is now available to buy. It is the fourth in
the series of the same name, which includes various
“bilbainadas” (traditional songs from
Bilbao) with harmonic arrangements by prestigious
contemporary composers. The Biotz Alai choir has
contributed to the CD with two recordings of the
TXIRENES BILBAINOS and DIA DE FRONTON
“bilbainadas”. The CDs can be purchased
from the premises of the choir at the cost of 10 euros.
They can also be ordered by telephone on 616 93 65
42.
Intense activity for the Biotz Alai
March/18/2005
The choir from
Algorta will perform on March 18 in the church of San
Nicolás de Bari, in Algorta, offering a sacred concert
for Lent, with works by Cherubini, Palestrina, Vitoria,
Goicoechea etc. The choir will also be performing on
April 22 in Santurce and on May 7 in Barakaldo. Details
on these concerts can be found in the Concerts section.
The Biotz Alai is also preparing a tour of Mallorca,
where it will perform in Andratx and Palma de Mallorca.
The choir will be travelling with a group of
companions, so that in total the group will number more
than 100. If you are interested in this tour, you can
get more information from the choir’s
offices.
The Biotz Alai choir, in the Basílica of Our Lady of Begoña
March/03/2005
A service for
Lent will take place in Begoña next Friday, March 11,
organised for the sixth time by the Brotherhood of
Begoña. Under the title MISERERE the event will include
a cultural and religious service, and the Biotz Alai
choir of from Algorta will be playing a part. Brief
readings from texts related to the Passion will
interlaced with various polyphonic religious pieces
performed by the choir. The performance will include
works by Palestrina, Medina, Rabanello, Vitoria etc.
and some extracts from the Requiem Mass in D Minor by
Pier Luigi Cherubini, and from the Mass in Honour of
Mary the Immaculate, by Vicente Goicochea. The choir
will perform under the direction of Javier Oyarzabal,
their conductor since 1988, and will be accompanied on
the organ by Maitene Abásolo, who has accompanied the
choir on previous occasions. In the past few years the
choir has performed a sacred concert in Algorta or
Bilbao during the Easter period, and this year the
concert will take place in Algorta on March 18 at 8 pm,
in the Church of San Nicolás de Bari. After these
concerts the Biotz Alai will turn its attention to
preparing thoroughly for concerts it will be giving in
the Balearic Islands, namely in Andratx and in Palma de
Mallorca, on June 12 and 13.