Latvian opera has lost one of its brightest stars. Lilija Greidāne, known for her warm and resonant voice, passed away on February 13, 2026, leaving behind a legacy as both a celebrated performer and a beloved teacher.
“A message of sorrow has reached ‘Klasika’: Lilija Greidāne (November 14, 1944 – February 13, 2026) has passed away – owner of a warm and sonorous voice, a charming opera soloist, a long-time professor at the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Music Academy,” announced Radio 3.
Described as beautiful, proud, strong, and spiritually bright, Greidāne captivated audiences with her versatile talent, embodying over 30 operatic roles throughout her career. She graced the stage of the Latvian National Opera from the early 1970s through the turn of the millennium.
Greidāne made her debut at the Latvian National Opera and Ballet while still a student, taking on the significant role of Donna Anna in Mozart’s “Don Giovanni.”
For more than three decades, Lilija Greidāne was a cornerstone of the Latvian National Opera. She was celebrated for her distinctive vocal timbre, regal stage presence, and ability to illuminate the essence of each character she portrayed, delivering compelling interpretations of both leading and supporting roles.
Her repertoire included iconic roles such as Mimì and Lelde, Adrianna Lekuvrèra and Micaëla, Desdemona and Laimdota, Donna Anna, Elisabetta, and many others. She as well participated in vocal-symphonic performances and chamber music concerts.
For many years, Lilija Greidāne led the Vocal Department of the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Music Academy and became a deeply cherished pedagogue to generations of young opera singers.
“I am very happy that I have dedicated my life to music. That I have not only been able to listen to it and understand it, but I have been able to express it through my voice! I have been happy in my profession – I could not have imagined anything else,” Greidāne shared in a 2023 broadcast of “Benefice,” celebrating her receiving the 2022 Great Music Award for Lifetime Achievement: https://ej.uz/lilija-greidane-benefice
In 2007, Lilija Greidāne also received the Latvian Gas Annual Award for Opera for her lifetime contribution.
The creative team at “Klasika” extends its deepest condolences to the artist’s family, friends, colleagues, and fellow enthusiasts. Their hearts are especially with cellist Kristīne Blaumane – Lilija’s beloved daughter – wishing her mother peace in eternity.
