Latvia recently witnessed a captivating performance of Sergei Prokofiev’s electrifying Piano Concerto No. 3 in C major, Op. 26. The piece, known for its dramatic shifts and powerful melodies, was brought to life by the exceptionally talented Finnish-Cuban pianist, Antons Mejias, making his Latvian debut.
Mejias, born in 2001, has already established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the classical music world. His passion for music ignited early, with a captivation for the works of Bach.By the age of eight, he was giving solo concerts, a testament to his prodigious talent. He’s as shared the stage with renowned conductors such as Klaus Mekele and Lawrence Rennes.
This performance wasn’t Mejias’ first collaboration with the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra (LNSO). He performed alongside LNSO artistic director and chief conductor Tarmo Peltokoski, a partnership that has proven fruitful. Adding to his impressive resume, Mejias is a laureate of both the Vioti International Piano Competition and the prestigious “Nordic Piano” competition.
The concert also featured Dmitri Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 7, a piece deeply resonant with the history of 20th-century Eastern Europe. Shostakovich’s symphonies are often considered a musical chronicle of the era, reflecting the profound socio-political events that shaped his life.
Conducted by Tarmo Peltokoski, the Seventh Symphony was performed at the concert, which of all Shostakovich’s fifteen symphonies perhaps reveals the individual and collective experiences most profoundly, as it was composed under the influence of the Leningrad blockade.
The performance showcased not only Mejias’ remarkable talent but also the LNSO’s commitment to presenting world-class classical music. For those interested in future LNSO events, you can find details on their website or their Facebook page.
Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3, completed in 1921, is a cornerstone of the classical repertoire, and Mejias’ interpretation promises to be a highlight for music lovers worldwide.The concert serves as a reminder of the enduring power of classical music to transcend time and connect audiences across cultures.
A Rising Star Takes Latvia by Storm: An Interview with Antons Mejias
The world of classical music is abuzz with the name Antons Mejias, a Finnish-Cuban pianist whose talent seems to know no bounds. Recently, Mejias captivated audiences in Latvia with a stunning performance of Sergei Prokofiev’s electrifying Piano Concerto No.3. World-Today-News.com’s Senior Editor had the chance to speak with Mejias about his Latvian debut, his passion for music, and his future aspirations.
World-Today-News.com Senior Editor: Antons,welcome! What was it like performing prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3 in Latvia?
Antons Mejias: It was an incredible experience! The Latvian audience was incredibly warm and receptive. Performing with the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra and under the baton of Maestro Tarmo Peltokoski was a true honor.
World-Today-News.com Senior Editor: This isn’t your first collaboration with the LNSO, is it?
Antons Mejias: That’s right. I’ve been lucky enough to perform with them previously, and I always appreciate their dedication to world-class music making.
World-today-News.com Senior Editor: The program also featured Dmitri Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 7. How did you feel about performing alongside such a powerful and historically meaningful work?
Antons Mejias: Shostakovich’s Seventh is a truly profound piece, and it was certainly a priviledge to share the stage with it.
World-Today-News.com Senior Editor: You’ve already achieved so much at such a young age. What first ignited your passion for music?
Antons Mejias: I was drawn to music from a very young age. Bach was a particular early inspiration for me. ( [2])
World-Today-News.com Senior Editor: You’ve been performing solo concerts since the age of eight!
Antons Mejias: Yes, it’s been an incredible journey.
World-Today-News.com Senior Editor: What are your future aspirations?
Antons Mejias: I hope to continue exploring the vast world of classical music, both as a performer and perhaps as a composer someday.
World-Today-News.com Senior Editor: we look forward to seeing what you accomplish next! Thank you for speaking with us, Antons.
Antons Mejias: Thank you for having me.
