LAPURTARRAK literally means « from Lapurdi » in the Basque language. The mixed choir was founded in 1989 in USTARITZ, former capital city of the Lapurdi county.
LAPURTARRAK was lead from the beginning until october 1999 by the choir leader Jean-Claude Landart, also an organ player and harmonizer. The choir leader and soprano singer Marilys Daguerre then conducted it from october 1999 until october 2016. LAPURTARRAK is now lead by Yves Panizzoli, a choir leader and a txistu player, also graduated from the Music Highschool of Bayonne like his predecessors.
LAPURTARRAK brings about 40 singers together. In its own concerts or in religious events, the choir emphasizes the musical heritage of the Basque country. Traditional songs, religious or not, are sung with contemporary pieces and international folksongs. Some are accompanied on the accordion or on the txistu, and the traditional Christmas concert is always performed with the organ in the parish Church of Ustaritz.
LAPURTARAK thanks the audience who shares its enthusiasm: « Your loyalty is our highest reward. »