Latvian composer and pianist Raimonds Pauls, whose career spans over six decades and includes a term as Latvia’s Minister of Culture [[2]], was celebrated Saturday with a large-scale concert at Riga’s Xiaomi Arena. The event,featuring a diverse lineup of Latvian performers,served as a prelude to Pauls’ 90th birthday celebrations this year. The concert showcased selections from Pauls’ extensive work in theater and film,highlighting his notable contributions to Latvian musical identity. [[3]]
A Celebration of Latvian Music: Raimonds Pauls Honored in Riga Concert
Riga’s Xiaomi Arena hosted a spectacular concert on Saturday, January 3, dedicated to the music of Latvian composer Raimonds Pauls. The event brought together a diverse array of Latvian musicians, actors, and singers to celebrate the Maestro’s extensive catalog, as reported by jauns.lv. The concert served as a tribute ahead of Pauls’ upcoming 90th birthday.
The evening’s program featured beloved melodies from Pauls’ iconic theatrical productions, including “Māsa Kerija” (Sister Carrie), “Šerloks Holmss” (Sherlock Holmes), “Elizabete, Anglijas karaliene” (Elizabeth, Queen of England), “Džons Neilands,” “Atjautīgā aukle” (The Clever Nanny), “Meža gulbji” (Forest Swans), and “Nāc pie puikām” (Come to the Boys). Musical accompaniment was provided by the band Vintāža. Fans also enjoyed selections from his film scores, including those from “Vella kalpi” (The Servants of the Devil), “Melnā vēža spīlēs” (In the Claws of the Black Crab), “Limuzīns Jāņu Nakts krāsā” (Limousine in the Colors of Midsummer Night), “Ilgais ceļš kāpās” (The Long Road in the Dunes), and “Teātris” (The Theatre).
The stage welcomed both established stars and rising talents. Internationally recognized singers Viktor Lapčenoks, Žoržs Siksna, Normunds Rutulis, and Ilona Bagele performed, alongside actors Māris Skrodis, Varis Vētra, and Jānis Paukštello. The concert was further enriched by performances from the folk dance ensembles “Dzintariņš” and “Ačkups,” the children’s vocal ensemble “Dzeguzīte,” and the choir “Anima,” among others. Actors from the Dailes Theatre, Daugavpils Theatre, and Jaunatnes Theatre also participated, adding to the event’s theatrical scope.
Raimonds Pauls’ creative legacy is vast and multifaceted, encompassing both theatre and film. Many of his compositions have become cherished favorites across generations and are integral to Latvian culture. This concert was a testament to the Maestro’s ability to create music that resonates deeply with audiences. Pauls’ work has long been a cornerstone of Latvian identity, and the concert underscored his enduring influence on the nation’s artistic landscape.
While specific reactions from attendees and performers haven’t been widely publicized, the scale of the event and the caliber of its participants demonstrate its significance within Latvia’s cultural life. Such events reaffirm the timeless value of Raimonds Pauls’ music and its power to unite diverse generations and artistic genres.
