Remembering Xalbador
2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the passing of Xalbador (Fernando Aire Etxart, 1920–1976), who was a beloved Basque bertsolari and shepherd from Urepele in the Aldudes Valley, Baxe Nafarroa (North Basque Country). Known for his profound, heartfelt improvised verses on rural life, nature, and faith, he is considered one of the most iconic figures in modern Basque literature and improvised poetry.
On Satruday, October24th, 2026, The San Francisco Basque Club and the North American Basque Organization hosted a full Bertsolari event, featuring renowned bertsolaris Andoni Egaña & Sebastian Lizaso along with the U.S. based Bertsolaris and with the Basque folk singers - Aire Ahizpak, who brought their grandfather Xalbador’s verses to life and performed a special dinner concert. For more information on N.A.B.O.’s Bertsolaritzari Arnasa Berritu Amerikan program or on the Bertso Eskola, please email arnasberri@gmail.com.
The topics for the Bertsolaris included Xalbador’s visit to California, using driverless taxis, staying at the bar for too long, and dealing with over-packed suitcases. On three occasions, Xalbador’s verses were brought to lift by his granddaughters, Aire Ahizpak, when they sang Sortetxeari, Semeari & Nigarra Begian.
Below are photos and a video from the event. On egin!
Event Program
Video of the Performance with the Real Time Translations
