Your first txistu
A txistu is held in one hand and blown like a recorder, so the first note comes quickly. The adventure is the breath: with three holes, it's your air that chooses most notes.
Finding one
Txistus are made by instrument makers in the Basque Country, and music schools there lend or sell beginner instruments. If you can, ask a txistu teacher or a music school which one their students start on.
Check whether yours is in F or in F sharp (the maker or the teacher will know). Our lessons ask, so they can hear your notes right.
How to hold it
Hold the txistu upright in your left hand, the mouthpiece at your lips. Your thumb covers the hole at the back, and your pointer and middle fingers cover the two holes on the front. Your other fingers hold the pipe steady.
Cover the holes with the soft pads of your fingers, flat and gentle. Your right hand is free: later it will play the drum. For now, let it rest.
Finding the notes with your breath
Start with all three holes covered and a very gentle breath: a low, soft note. Now blow a little faster, same fingers: the note jumps higher. Most of the txistu's music lives on those higher notes.
If a note squeaks or jumps by itself, the breath is a little too strong, or a hole isn't fully covered. Slow down, breathe calmly, and let your ear guide you.
Starting each note
Begin each note with a light touch of the tongue, as if whispering "too". It gives the note a clear start, and txistu tunes, quick and dancing, need it.
Looking after it
After playing, wipe the txistu dry inside and out, and keep it away from heat and strong sun: wood doesn't like sudden changes.
Our txistu lessons are new and still being tested with players: they listen as you play and, if you allow the camera, show the fingering on your own hands. If something sounds wrong to you, tell us; you'll be helping every txistulari who comes after you.