Debut of Jelgava Leaders as Chief Conductors and Chief Conductors at the Song and Dance Festival

Several leaders of Jelgava collectives will be making their debut as chief conductors and chief conductors at the upcoming song and dance festival. This year, the festival aims to honor the personalities who have contributed to the success of the festival over the past century and a half.

The festival has always been enriched by the participation of artistic collectives, leaders of collectives, and chief conductors. In recognition of their contributions, several leaders of Jelgava’s artistic collectives have been chosen as chief conductors and chief conductors for this year’s festival. While most of them have previously served as chief conductors, three collective heads will be making their debut this year. The Jelgavnieki community is actively involved in creating the artistic events and concerts of the festival.

One of the highly anticipated events during the festival is the choir’s grand concert titled “Tīrums. Song road.” This concert will feature several chief conductors making their debuts, including Aigars Meri, the artistic director of the Jelgava Chamber Orchestra, who will be conducting the festive choir for the first time. Edgars Vītols, the chief conductor of Jelgava Choir District, will also be conducting during the concert.

Another highlight of the festival is the Dance Grand Performance. This year, Gunta Skuja, the head of the folk dance ensemble “Kalve” from the Latvian University of Biosciences and Technologies, will serve as the chief conductor for the performance titled “Eternal Engine,” which will take place at the Daugava Stadium. Additionally, the heads of the folk dance ensembles “Diždancis” and “Ritums” will also make their debut as chief conductors. Ieva Karele, along with Guna Trukšāne, the rehearser and choreographer of the children’s and youth dance group “Vēja zirdziņš,” will be leading the performances. Skuja and Trukšāne will also be the main conductors of the big concert “Balts,” which will be held at the “Riga” arena.

The brass band concert titled “Time flies” in Andrejost will be conducted by Raitis Ashmanis, the artistic director and conductor of the Jelgava big band, and Agris Celms, the conductor of the Jelgava 4th high school brass band. The concert will be directed by Elīna Apsīte. Ashmanis will also serve as the chief conductor of the brass bands at the final concert titled “Together up.”

Sandis Kalniņš, the artistic director of the “Mītava” concert hall, will be the director of the woodwind concert “Laika upe.” He will also oversee the concert of foreign Latvian collectives titled “Pasaules latvies saieta nams,” which will be held in Ķipsala. Additionally, Kalniņš will be involved in the sacred music concert featuring minority collectives at Riga’s Old St. Gertrude Evangelical Lutheran Church. Annika Andersone, a dance teacher, will serve as a movement consultant in the big concert of kokli music titled “Laika upe.”

During the holiday week, the Latvian National Opera will host a vocal symphonic music concert titled “Šūpulis,” featuring artist Sandra Strēle.

The song and dance festival in Jelgava promises to be a celebration of talent and a showcase of the city’s artistic collectives. With the debut of several leaders as chief conductors and chief conductors, the festival is set to captivate audiences and continue its legacy of excellence.

In what ways do the chief conductors’ debut performances bring a fresh perspective and innovative approach to the festival, ultimately amplifying its impact and leaving a lasting impression on the audience

One of the chief conductors for the first time. Skuja is known for her expertise in folk dance and is expected to bring a unique and captivating energy to the performance.

The festival organizers have chosen these leaders of Jelgava collectives as chief conductors to acknowledge their significant contributions to the success of the festival throughout its long history. Their selection not only recognizes their talent and skill but also serves as a tribute to the festival’s legacy and the individuals who have played a pivotal role in making it a grand celebration of art and culture.

The participation of artistic collectives, leaders of collectives, and chief conductors has always been an integral part of the festival. These individuals bring their passion, creativity, and expertise to the stage, creating unforgettable experiences for both performers and audiences alike. Their dedication and hard work are crucial in ensuring the festival’s continued success and its ability to showcase the rich artistic heritage of Jelgava.

The Jelgavnieki community, known for its active involvement in the festival, plays a vital role in the creation and execution of its artistic events and concerts. Their collective efforts contribute to the vibrant and dynamic atmosphere that permeates the festival, making it a truly immersive and engaging experience for all.

With the inclusion of several chief conductors making their debut this year, the festival promises to be an exciting and groundbreaking celebration of music and dance. Their fresh perspectives and innovative approaches are expected to infuse the performances with renewed energy and creativity, amplifying the festival’s impact and leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

One of the most eagerly anticipated events of the festival is the grand concert by the choir titled “Tīrums. Song road.” This concert will mark the debut of several chief conductors, including Aigars Meri, the artistic director of the Jelgava Chamber Orchestra, who will conduct the festive choir for the first time. Another notable debutant is Edgars Vītols, the chief conductor of Jelgava Choir District, who will also take the stage during the concert.

The Dance Grand Performance is another highlight of the festival, and this year it will feature Gunta Skuja, the head of the folk dance ensemble “Kalve” from the Latvian University of Biosciences and Technologies. Skuja’s reputation for excellence in folk dance promises to add a unique and captivating element to the performance, further enriching the overall experience for the audience.

As the festival aims to honor the personalities who have contributed to its success over the past century and a half, the inclusion of these talented leaders of Jelgava collectives serves as a fitting tribute. Their involvement not only showcases their individual achievements but also pays homage to the festival’s rich history and the countless individuals who have dedicated themselves to its growth and prosperity.