Andris Ērglis & Liepāja’s Golden Choir on Latvia’s Chorus Wars 2024

Liepāja’s “Zelta koris” (Golden Chorus) is preparing for its debut in the first live broadcast of TV3’s “Koru kari” (Chorus Wars) competition, a demonstrate that has quickly gained momentum on TV3 and the streaming platform GO3. The competition features ten choirs representing cities across Latvia, vying for a cash prize to be donated to a charity of their choice.

The Liepāja choir is led by Andris Ērglis, a well-known singer who first participated in “Koru kari” in 2009. Ērglis stated that he accepted the role as choir leader based on a sense of patriotism for his hometown. “The producers called me with the proposition that I was needed. I joked that I wasn’t even offered a choice,” Ērglis said. “Of course, I had participated in ‘Koru kari’ a long time ago, back in 2009. It wasn’t an immediate yes, as I needed to consider the workload and time commitment. My life isn’t solely about ‘Koru kari’; I work at two schools and have my own solo projects. It’s not easy to balance everything.”

Ērglis emphasized the dedication of his 16 choir members, who rehearse five times a week, often traveling significant distances. “I admire each of my 16 choristers. We also have choral conductors. All these people reach to rehearsals five times a week, sacrificing their personal time, which, in my opinion, is the most valuable thing. They also spend their money to get to the rehearsal location. It’s crucial to note that not everyone is from Liepāja. We represent all of Kurzeme, so it’s both a great privilege and a great responsibility,” he explained. He noted that some members commute from cities like Saldus, Skrunda, and Dienvidkurzeme.

According to TV3, the latest season of “Koru kari” features choirs from Rēzekne to Liepāja. Other choir leaders include Ella, Diona, and Asnate, as well as Ingus Ulmanis, who previously led a choir in Cēsis. DJ Ella will lead the Riga choir, while Māra Upmane-Holšteine will lead another Riga-based choir. (nra.lv, December 17, 2025)

The Liepāja Zelta koris recently acknowledged support from Pure Chocolate on Facebook, expressing gratitude for a “sweet boost” ahead of the first live broadcast. (Facebook, March 22, 2026)