What happens during bertsolari competitions called txapelketak?

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Basque language Extent of the Basque language area

During txapelketak (competitions), bertsolariak—or "versifiers"—engage in the art of extemporizing verses in the Basque language. These events showcase the performers' ability to create and sing verses on the spot, a practice deeply rooted in the Basque oral tradition. By the turn of the 21st century, these competitions had become popular public events, frequently attracting live audiences and receiving coverage on radio and television.1