Olatz Zugasti, born in Hernani in 1965, is a prominent Spanish Basque singer, composer, and instrumentalist known for her mastery of both the Celtic and pedal harps, as well as keyboards. She has been an integral member of Benito Lertxundi’s group since 1981, contributing to all of his acclaimed recordings as a musician and backing vocalist.
Zugasti’s musical career began at the age of eight when she received her first guitar. By her teenage years, she was performing at local festivals. Her break came when Lertxundi invited her to sing on his album Altabizkar/Itzaltzuko Bardoari (1981), which led to a long-standing collaboration. Over the years, she has expanded her role in the group, playing harp and keyboards in addition to singing.
Influenced by Celtic harpist Alan Stivell and driven by her love for traditional music, Zugasti refined her harp-playing technique at the Baiona (Bayonne) Conservatory. She has since developed her own distinctive style, blending traditional and contemporary elements in her performances and compositions.
As a solo artist, Zugasti has released several albums. Kantu Baten Bila Nabil (1991), her debut album, featured the Celtic harp as the centerpiece, combining traditional and modern songs, arranged with guitarist Joël Merah.
Bulun Bulunka (1999) is a collection of traditional Basque lullabies, enriched with clarinet, bassoon, and Irish flute, co-produced with Angel Unzu.
In 2002, she released Elearen Lainoa, a song-driven album with lyrics by Basque poets Itxaro Borda and Henriette Aire, accompanied by instrumental compositions for harp and oboe.
Gau Hotzenean Ere (2010), co-produced with Mixel Ducau, features original songs by Zugasti, including collaborations with Irish songwriter Brendan Graham.
Zugasti’s contributions extend beyond her solo work, with her harp performances featured on recordings by artists such as Maite Itoiz, John Kelly, and Mestisay. She has also shared her expertise through master classes in Celtic harp and arrangement techniques at conservatories in San Sebastián, Bayonne, and St. Jean Pied de Port.
Discography:
Kantu Baten Bila Nabil (Elkar, 1991)
Bulun Bulunka (Elkar, 2002)
Elearen Lainoa (Elkar, 2002)
Gau Hotzenean Ere (2010)
Ur goiena, ur barrena… (2015, Elkar)
Orion zuzenean (Kantaita Enea, 2019)
Hitzño bat erran eta, banua berhala (Kantaita Enea, 2023)
Author: Tyler Bennet
