Holiday Harmony: A Weekend of Music and Theater in Latvia
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This weekend, Latvia will be alive with teh sounds of music and theater, offering a rich tapestry of performances that celebrate both classical traditions and contemporary creativity. From the resonant notes of the Latvian radio Choir to the emotive staging of a new theatrical production, audiences are in for a cultural treat.
A French-Inspired Evening with the Latvian Radio Choir
On Friday, December 13, the historic Torņakalna Church will host a special concert featuring the Latvian Radio Choir, led by conductor Sigvards Kļavas, alongside saxophonist Aigars Raumans and organist Aigars Reiņš.The program is a tribute to French composers, including Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel, and Olivier Messiaen, among others.
The evening will open with Debussy’s Rhapsody for Saxophone, a piece that masterfully blends Eastern influences with delicate tonal nuances. This will be followed by Eugène Bozza’s Aria, which showcases the saxophone’s lyrical capabilities. The choir will then take center stage with Francis Poulenc’s Christmas Motets, a collection of works that beautifully capture the composer’s signature blend of contemplative clarity and sensual soundscapes.
The program will also include Messiaen’s Eternal Praise of jesus, arranged by klitus Gotwald, and motets by Maurice Duruflé, which pay homage to the timeless tradition of Gregorian chants. This promises to be a night of exquisite music, perfect for both classical enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
When: Friday, December 13, at 7 PM
Where: Torņakalna Church
Tickets: €20, available online via Ticket Paradises
A Christmas Party in Liepāja
On Saturday, December 14, the Liepāja Concert Hall will come alive with a festive program curated by conductor vilhelms Vācieš. The evening will feature the Liepāja Symphony Orchestra and the State Academic Choir Latvia, alongside baritone Rihards Millers and the Liepāja Music, Art, and Design High School boys’ choir.
The concert will highlight the works of renowned composers such as Paul Damby, Richard Wagner, and Gustav Mahler, culminating in Artūrs Ozoliņš’s Christmas Cantata. This festive finale is sure to evoke the spirit of the season, blending conventional choral music with orchestral grandeur.
when: Saturday, December 14, at 6 PM
Where: Liepāja concert Hall
Tickets: €15–20, available online via Ticket Paradises
Chamber Music in Riga: A night with Trio palladio
Also on Saturday, the Small Guild in Riga will welcome Trio Palladio, featuring violinist Eva Bindere, cellist kristīne Blaumane, and pianist Reinis Zariņš. The trio will perform a diverse program that includes works by Franz Schubert, Pēteris Vasks, Anatolij Šenderov, and Erkki-Sven Tüür.
This intimate concert offers a rare opportunity to experience the synergy of these talented musicians as they bring to life some of the most captivating chamber music compositions.
When: Saturday,December 14,at 7 PM
Where: Small guild,Riga
Tickets: €30,available online via Ticket Paradises
Theater Premiere: “Blue” in Valmiera
On sunday,December 15,the valmiera Theater will present the premiere of Blue,a new production directed by Māra Ķimele. Based on Gunārs Priede’s play, this thought-provoking piece explores themes of self-discovery and the transformative power of life’s challenges.
“The show is about how life forces you to turn the mirror towards yourself and see something unexpected,” says Ķimele.“I want to make this show about the fact that leaving is not the end, but the highest point.”
The cast includes Artis Jančevskis, ieva Puķe, Anna Nele Āboliņa, Tālivaldis Lasmanis, Baiba Valante, Aigars Vilims, and Māra Vigante, bringing a rich tapestry of talent to this compelling production.
When: Sunday, December 15
Where: valmiera Theater, New Hall
Tickets: Available online via Ticket Paradises
This weekend’s lineup of performances in Latvia offers something for everyone, from the grandeur of orchestral music to the intimacy of chamber ensembles and the emotional depth of theater. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, these events are not to be missed.
Jazz, Soul, and Classical Music Take Center Stage in Upcoming Latvian Concerts
music lovers in Latvia are in for a treat this holiday season, as a series of captivating concerts featuring jazz, soul, and classical performances are set to dazzle audiences in riga, Daugavpils, and Ventspils. From soulful jazz melodies to timeless classical compositions, these events promise an unforgettable musical experience.
Ola Onabule: A Soulful Journey with the Latvijas Radio Big Band
London-born jazz, soul, and R&B sensation Ola onabule returns to Latvia for a series of performances alongside the renowned latvijas Radio Big Band. Known for her powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence, Onabule has collaborated with some of the world’s most prestigious jazz orchestras.this time,she brings her signature blend of soulful tunes and festive Christmas melodies to Riga and Daugavpils.
“I’m thrilled to be back in Latvia and to share the stage with such an incredible ensemble,” said Onabule. “The energy of the audience here is always inspiring, and I can’t wait to perform some of my favorite songs alongside the Latvijas Radio Big Band.”
Catch Ola Onabule live at the Riga Circus on December 14 at 7 p.m. and at the Daugavpils Palace of Culture on December 15 at 4 p.m. Tickets are available online starting at €10-30.
A Classical Christmas: Vivaldi’s “Gloria” in Ventspils
On December 15, the Ventspils Concert Hall will host a special Christmas concert featuring antonio Vivaldi’s iconic Gloria RV 589, alongside works by Latvian composers Andra Sēne and Valta Puče. The Ventspils Chamber Orchestra and Mixed Choir will perform under the baton of conductor Aigars Meri, with soloists Iveta Apine (soprano), Inese Romancāne (mezzo-soprano), and Ginta Rūse (narrator) adding their talents to the evening.
“This concert is a celebration of both classical masterpieces and Latvian musical heritage,” said conductor Aigars Meri. “We’re excited to bring the joy of the holiday season to our audience through music.”
The performance begins at 4 p.m. at the Ventspils Concert Hall. Tickets are priced at €10-12 and can be purchased online.
Plan your Musical Escape
Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast, a soul music aficionado, or a classical music lover, these concerts offer something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to experience these world-class performances in the heart of Latvia.
Event Details:
- Ola Onabule with the Latvijas Radio Big Band
Riga Circus: December 14 at 7 p.m.
Daugavpils Palace of Culture: December 15 at 4 p.m.
Tickets: €10-30 - Vivaldi’s “Gloria” in Ventspils
Ventspils Concert Hall: December 15 at 4 p.m.
tickets: €10-12
For more data and to purchase tickets, visit Ticket paradises online.
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Jazz at the Riga Jazz Club
On Friday, December 20, the Riga Jazz Club will host a special evening featuring the renowned Latvian jazz pianist Artis Ivanovs and his quartet. The program will include original compositions by Ivanovs, and also jazz standards reinterpreted with a modern twist. The quartet’s dynamic interplay and Ivanovs’ virtuosic piano playing are sure to captivate jazz enthusiasts.
When: Friday, december 20, at 8 PM
Where: Riga Jazz Club
Tickets: €15, available online via Ticket Paradises
Soulful Sounds in Daugavpils
On Saturday, December 21, the Daugavpils Concert Hall will come alive with the soulful sounds of the Latvian Soul Ensemble. Led by vocalist Inga Šļubovska, the ensemble will perform a mix of classic soul hits and contemporary arrangements. The evening promises to be a soul-stirring experience, perfect for music lovers seeking a warm and uplifting atmosphere.
When: Saturday,December 21,at 7 PM
Where: Daugavpils Concert Hall
Tickets: €12,available online via Ticket Paradises
Classical Masterpieces in Ventspils
On Sunday,December 22,the Ventspils Concert Hall will present a classical music concert featuring the Ventspils Symphony Orchestra,conducted by Andris Veismanis. The program will include beloved masterpieces by Ludwig van Beethoven, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The orchestra’s precise and passionate performance will transport audiences to the golden age of classical music.
When: Sunday, December 22, at 6 PM
Where: Ventspils Concert Hall
Tickets: €18, available online via Ticket Paradises
This holiday season, Latvia’s vibrant music scene offers a diverse array of performances, from the smooth grooves of jazz to the timeless beauty of classical music. weather you’re a fan of soulful melodies or orchestral grandeur, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out on these unforgettable musical experiences!
