In 2024,the legendary Maestro Raimonds Pauls embarked on a new creative journey, collaborating with the rising star of the Latvian National Opera, Edgars Ošleja. Known for his remarkable talent in discovering new voices, Pauls found in Ošleja a unique blend of classical and contemporary potential.This partnership culminated in the album Raymond Paul’s songs are sung by Edgars Oshleja, a fusion of opera and pop that has captivated audiences across Latvia.
Edgars Ošleja, winner of the Latvian Grand Music Prize 2021 in the category Young artist of the year,is one of the brightest opera soloists of his generation. Yet, his debut in the pop genre, under the guidance of Pauls, has been nothing short of groundbreaking. “The concert program together with the Maestro is a huge honor for me, which allows me to look at music from a different angle,” Ošleja shared. “Trying my voice in pop music is something completely new—a different rhythm, a different style. World experience has already proven that the boundary between opera music and pop genre often disappears.”
The album, performed at several concerts, including a memorable evening at the Dzintari concert hall, showcased new arrangements for a big band. The Latvian Radio big band, led by the skilled arranger Kārlis Vanags, provided the perfect backdrop for Pauls’ signature sound, blending jazz with the maestro’s timeless compositions.
| Key Highlights |
|———————|
| Album: Raymond Paul’s songs are sung by Edgars Oshleja |
| Genre: Fusion of opera and pop |
| Performances: Dzintari concert hall and other venues in Latvia |
| Collaborators: Raimonds Pauls, Edgars Ošleja, Latvian Radio big band |
| Arranger: Kārlis Vanags |
This collaboration not only highlights the versatility of Ošleja’s voice but also underscores Pauls’ enduring ability to innovate and inspire. As audiences continue to embrace this unique musical blend, the boundary between genres becomes ever more fluid, proving that music, at its core, is a universal language.
