Jesus Guridi

Guridi Viejo Zortzico

Jesus Guridi (1886-1961) was a Spanish composer and organist, who championed the continued use and preservation of Basque folk music. He is best remembered for his superb orchestral works such as Basque Melodies, which were often transcribed for the Piano. Guridi wrote 7 pieces for the Harp, of which Viejo Zortzico is certainly the most popular today. Composed in 1949 and premiered in 1950, it wasn't published until 1960. Simply entitled Old Zortzico, it is inspired by the traditional Basque dance of the same name, a popular reel in 5/8 time.