Korrontzi

Korrontzi is a Basque folk group from Mungia, País Vasco, active since 2004. Its sound centres on the trikitixa, an diatonic accordion, the alboka, a double clarinet, and the mandolin, with percussion and bass completing the lineup. The group forms around the ideas of Agustin Barandiarán and Mikel Romero.

Style and repertory

The group works from Basque music tradition and pays tribute on its first album to trikitilaris, the accordion players whose music remains part of popular Basque culture. Its stage performance is described as dynamic and modern, with a melodic and rhythmic feel that also recalls Celtic music.

Members

Agustín Barandiarán plays trikitixa and sings. Mikel Romero plays mandolin and guitars and provides backing vocals. Ander García plays bass and backing vocals. Iker Lope de Bergara plays alboka, whistles, txistu, txirula, caramillo and flute, and also sings backing vocals. Ander Hurtado de Saratxo plays drums and percussion.

Activity and performances

Korrontzi is founded in 2004 and first focuses on establishing itself in its home territory. It performs at the Getxo Folk Festival and the Galdames Folk Festival, and later appears at a range of events in Spain and Ireland. Its itinerary includes festivals in Galicia, Asturias and Andalusia, as well as a debut concert in Madrid at Sala Galileo during the Artistas en Ruta tour. Other noted appearances include Parapanda Folk in Granada, Intercéltico de Moaña in Galicia, Pardiñas Folk in Lugo, Fiestas de Gracia in Barcelona, Plasencia Folk in Cáceres, a live-broadcast performance at Sendesaal, Radio Bremen in Germany, and a performance at Festival Les Traversées Tatihou in Normandy.

Recordings

The group releases its first album in 2006.