The gaita instrument is a key ingredient at Basque festivals The gaita is a small Basque instrument that resembles a flute but belongs to the oboe family. It almost disappeared before the 1970s but is now back in fashion in the Basque Country. The gaita has a high-pitched, slightly metallic sound, often heard in the streets of Bayonne or Pamplona. During festivals the gaiteros are a key ingredient in the celebrations, helping to draw in crowds. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES