zortziko

Zortziko is a Basque musical rhythm and dance pattern that forms a core part of traditional Basque music. The term derives from zortzi, Basque for eight, signaling an eight-beat cycle that is central to the style.

Typically, zortziko is realized as eight eighth notes per measure. In practice it is felt as a cross-accent pattern grouped most commonly as 3+3+2, though other groupings occur in regional variants. The primary accents usually land on the first, fourth and seventh notes, creating a distinctive lilt that differentiates Basque rhythm from straight 4/4 or simple 6/8 patterns. The notation can reflect 8/8 or may be represented in compound metres depending on the musical context.

Zortziko is widely used in Basque folk ensembles, such as txistu (Basque flute), alboka (double-reed wind instrument), dultzaina (shawm), and tambourine-based percussion. It also serves as a framework for Basque dances, where steps and figures align to the eight-beat pulse. In the 20th century, Basque composers and arrangers incorporated zortziko into classical and contemporary works, preserving its characteristic feel while expanding its musical possibilities.

See also Basque music; Basque dance; Basque instruments such as txistu and dultzaina.