Acclaimed Latvian singer Aija Vītoliņa is bringing the magic of Christmas to audiences across Latvia with her unique concert, “Like a Cricket in the Shade.” The tour, a collaboration born from a chance meeting ten years ago at Tashkent’s international jazz festival, promises a diverse and enchanting musical experience.
“This is the composition we have met at the festival Pictures,” explains Vītoliņa, referencing the genesis of this special collaboration with producer Sandi Mohovikov. The concert’s title, “like a Cricket in the Shade,” might suggest a quiet, reflective atmosphere, but Vītoliņa assures listeners that’s only part of the story. “There will also be that, but there will also be songs in other languages.There will also be a surprise!” she teases, adding, “The concert will be luminous, with a happy feeling.”
The diverse program features a captivating mix of musical styles and languages. Expect to hear beloved Latvian songs alongside lesser-known yet deeply moving flamenco ballads from the repertoire of world-renowned Latin singer Jasmīna Levi. Original compositions by the trio – Kaspars Zemīš, Aivars Hermani, and Mārač Auziņas – add a unique Christmas Eve ambiance to the performance. While each musician boasts a successful solo career and numerous other projects,this Christmas collaboration offers a rare chance to experience their combined talents,with their virtuosic guitar work perfectly complementing Vītoliņa’s distinctive vocal timbre.
For Vītoliņa herself, Christmas often evokes the image of falling snow and the haunting beauty of Kristīne Zadovska’s ”Winter evening is snowing.” While this particular song isn’t included in the current program, Vītoliņa reflects on the spirit of the season. “and this year, somehow, it doesn’t feel like snow,” she observes. “While waiting for this holiday, especially this year, I feel grateful for the opportunity to be with fantastic friends on stage, in the audience and do what I love the most,” she shares.
The intimate settings of churches add a special dimension to the concert experience. “It is so stunning, the feeling is more special, the acoustics are unusual, because the sound flies and with it the song flies away, and it seems that Christmas is so close, close. the building and the atmosphere are of great importance, but a church can be everywhere. Also in the heart!” Vītoliņa enthuses.
Catch Aija Vītoliņa’s “Like a Cricket in the Shade” Christmas concert at these locations:
- December 25, 7:00 PM: Riga Lutheran Church in Torņakalnė
- December 26, 2:00 PM: Ogres Sv. Maynard Roman Catholic Church
- December 26, 7:00 PM: Cesis Concert Hall
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience the magic of Christmas through the lens of Aija Vītoliņa’s exceptional talent.
