Lithuania’s “Big Choir Battle” television competition saw a particularly emotional evening on Sunday, February 11, 2026, as singer Justė Arlauskaitė-Jazzu was moved to tears during performances, and openly reflected on the vulnerability inherent in performing, according to reports from LNK and Delfi.
Jazzu, who joined judges Inga Jankauskaitė and Vytautas Lukočius as a “generals” on the panel, greeted the contestants with a new song, signaling a fresh start for her as well. “I desire to celebrate what love does to a person. So radiant, so recovered, so happy. New songs, a new album – everything is new,” Jazzu said, as relayed by project host Rolandas Mackevičius.
The evening was marked by several poignant moments. Following a performance by Mantas Jankavičius and the Kėdainiai choir, Jazzu commented on the enduring pressures faced by even seasoned performers. “I witness Mantas, approaching the patriarch of the stage, the name of the stage wolf. So much experience – and yet I still see nervousness, trembling hands. It never ends. And that is a wonderful beauty,” she observed.
Liepa and the Klaipėda choir also received praise from Jazzu, who highlighted Liepa’s dedication not only on stage but also behind the scenes. “Liepa takes care of your well-being and even the crumpled folds [of your clothing],” Jazzu remarked with a smile.
A particularly personal moment arose during the performance of the Marijampolė “Rožinis” choir. As they sang “Paukščiai” – a song beloved by the late Kostas Smoriginas – both Jankauskaitė and Jazzu were visibly moved to tears. “I take back my words that this song cannot be told if you do not have experience. It’s incredibly beautiful, the arrangement is wonderful, it’s true music,” Jazzu said, her voice thick with emotion.
Jazzu also shared a connection to the Dzūkija region, noting the talent and sensitivity of performers representing the area. “I was pleasantly surprised. Selected people – either from a modeling agency or from the elections of the most charismatic personalities in Lithuania. Since I am half Dzūkian myself, I saw partisans, sensitivity. Wonderful voices, not forced acting,” she stated.
Mackevičius echoed the emotional atmosphere, stating, “I’m getting choked up too. I sense like I’m with my children – I experience everything for all of you here.”
“The Big Choir Battle” continues on LNK on Sundays.
