Txalaparta and national construction: Constructing music

Abstract

This paper is concerned with the process of the revival and construction of Txalaparta, a sound tradition and instrument which originates from the Basque Country. From the Txalaparta which is rediscovered in the 1960s, a stream has emerged, among many, in a continued project of musical construction. Departing from the broad spectrum approach to performance pioneered by Schechner, where words and actions are considered performative, or displayed to be witnessed and to change/construct reality at the same time, an interpretation will be set forth on those discourses and actions which are mobilised through Txalaparta by a nation that seeks to belong (to be recognised) with the full presence of a nation-state.