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Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

2018-12-13T16:24:36-05:00March 20th, 2018|

XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

TERMS

By accessing the web site at https://latviansongfest.com, you are agreeing to be bound by these website Terms and Conditions of Use, all applicable laws and regulations, and agree that you are responsible for compliance with any applicable local laws. If you do not agree with any of these terms, you are prohibited from using or accessing this site. The materials contained in this web site are protected by applicable copyright and trademark law.

USE LICENSE

Permission is granted to temporarily download one copy of the materials (information or software) on XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada website for personal, non-commercial transitory viewing only. This is the grant of a license, not a transfer of title, and under this license you may not:

  • modify or copy the materials;

  • use the materials for any commercial purpose, or for any public display (commercial or non-commercial);
  • attempt to decompile or reverse engineer any software contained on XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada website;
  • remove any copyright or other proprietary notations from the materials; or

  • transfer the materials to another person or “mirror” the materials on any other server.

  • This license shall automatically terminate if you violate any of these restrictions and may be terminated by XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada at any time. Upon terminating your viewing of these materials or upon the termination of this license, you must destroy any downloaded materials in your possession whether in electronic or printed format.

DISCLAIMER

The materials on XV Latvian Song and Dance in Canada website are provided “as is”. XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada makes no warranties, expressed or implied, and hereby disclaims and negates all other warranties, including without limitation, implied warranties or conditions of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement of intellectual property or other violation of rights. Further, XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada does not warrant or make any representations concerning the accuracy, likely results, or reliability of the use of the materials on its Internet website or otherwise relating to such materials or on any sites linked to this site.

LIMITATIONS

In no event shall XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada or its suppliers be liable for any damages (including, without limitation, damages for loss of data or profit, or due to business interruption,) arising out of the use or inability to use the materials on XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada Internet site, even if XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada or a XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada authorized representative has been notified orally or in writing of the possibility of such damage. Because some jurisdictions do not allow limitations on implied warranties, or limitations of liability for consequential or incidental damages, these limitations may not apply to you.

REVISIONS AND ERRATA

The materials appearing on XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada website could include technical, typographical, or photographic errors. XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada does not warrant that any of the materials on its website are accurate, complete, or current. XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada may make changes to the materials contained on its web site at any time without notice. XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada does not, however, make any commitment to update the materials.

LINKS

XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada has not reviewed all of the sites linked to its Internet website and is not responsible for the contents of any such linked site. The inclusion of any link does not imply endorsement by XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada of the site. Use of any such linked website is at the user’s own risk.

SITE TERMS OF USE MODIFICATIONS

XIV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada may revise these terms of use for its website at any time without notice. By using this website you are agreeing to be bound by the then current version of these Terms and Conditions of Use.

GOVERNING LAW

Any claim relating to XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada website shall be governed by the laws of Ontario, Canada without regard to its conflict of law provisions. General Terms and Conditions applicable to Use of a Website.

PRIVACY POLICY

Effective since: March 15, 2018

We make it a matter of pride to respect the privacy of our users and to treat their personal data in the strictest confidentiality and in accordance with the legislation in force.

The privacy policy is intended to inform you, in a transparent manner, about the data we collect, the purpose for collecting it, the way we use it and the rights you have regarding the processing of such data.

On this page, we provide you with a simplified version of our privacy policy in the form of questions and answers.

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PROCESSING YOUR DATA?

XV Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada is the controller of your personal data.

Here is our complete contact information as it relates to only the forms on the website:
4 Credit Union Drive, Toronto, Ontario M4A 2N8

WHAT DATA DO WE COLLECT?

We collect your data – personal only – for various reasons which are defined in the following point (see point 3). It includes the following data:

  • your identifying information (surname, first name, e-mail address, delivery address and country);

  • the type of domain with which you connect to the Internet;

  • the IP address assigned to you;

  • the date and time of your access to our website;

  • the type of browser, platform and/or operating system you are using;

  • the search engine and the keywords used to find the website;

  • your browsing preferences.

WHAT DATA DO WE COLLECT?

We collect your data mainly to send our newsletter, and, more generally, to easily communicate with each other.

HOW DO WE COLLECT YOUR DATA?

Most of your data is communicated to us by your active intervention. Other data, such as the date and time of your access to our website, the pages you have viewed, or your location data, are collected automatically through Google Analytics.

IS YOUR DATA PROTECTED?

We take pride in respecting the privacy of our users. We maintain a strict privacy policy and take all appropriate measures to ensure that our servers prevent, to the extent possible, any unauthorized leak, destruction, loss, disclosure, use, access or modification of your data.

HOW LONG DO WE STORE YOUR DATA?

We keep your data for the time necessary to accomplish the objectives pursued (see point 3). Once this goal is achieved, we either delete or anonymize them.

WHAT ARE YOUR RIGHTS AND HOW CAN THEY BE EXERCISED?

You may, at any time, request to verify, access, rectify, delete, transfer and object to the use of your data, as well as request the limitation of such use of your data. To do so, simply send us an email at the following address: 4 Credit Union Drive, Toronto, Ontario M4A 2N8. We will then make every effort to take the necessary action as soon as possible.

WHO HAS ACCESS TO YOUR DATA AND TO WHOM ARE THEY COMMUNICATED?

Our employees have access to it only to the extent necessary for processing your request and/or for fulfilling the objectives pursued (see point 3). Each of them is subject to a strict obligation of confidentiality.

DO WE TRANSFER YOUR DATA ABROAD?

No, we do not.

HOW TO RECEIVE OUR PRODUCTS?

With your consent, we will subscribe you to our newsletter. You can unsubscribe and withdraw your consent to these communications at any time.

WHAT HAPPENS IN THE EVENT OF A CHANGE TO THE PRIVACY POLICY?

If we had to make any changes to this privacy policy, you would be notified through our website or email.

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Featured Artists

2024-05-21T11:27:51-04:00January 27th, 2019|

TEIKSMA

Founded in 1946, Latvian folk dance ensemble Teiksma is recognized as one of the highest quality folk dance groups in Latvia. Their artistic talents are a joy to behold in both concerts and folk dance competitions. Led by Janis Erglis, Teiksma continually strives to be the best in order to master and develop Latvian folk dance traditions. Teiksma has become a main stage for new ideas and choreographies within the Latvian folk dance community, striving to advance Latvian folk dance into the next era. Many of their creations have become well established in the repertoire of both Latvian dance ensembles and major dance festivals. With their seemingly endless bounty of creative potential and hard work, Teiksma is devoted to preserving and sharing their love and knowledge of Latvian folk dance and culture within Latvia and beyond its borders.

RAXTU RAXTI

Contemporary folk music band “Raxtu Raxti” began their artistic journey together back in summer of 2012. It brought together a number of musicians from another band – “Autobuss debesīs” -, as well as present group’s lead vocal Kristīne Kārkle – Kalniņa and her brother Edgars Kārklis. At the beginning of their career, their repertoire was based on the music of Latvian composer Imants Kalniņš, which was brought closer to the sound of folk music. Over time the repoertoire has been complemented by original compositions and folk song arrangements by other composers, as well as by the band’s own members. “Raxtu Raxti” uses both – traditional and academic – Latvian musical instruments and also world music ethno-instruments in their music, creating a distinct and well defined sound that is solely unique to themselves.

Up till this point “Raxtu Raxti” has performed vigorously not only in Latvia, but also abroad. The main event for the group each year is the concert dedicated to the proclamation day of the Republic of Latvia performed in Riga, where the band collaborates with the bagpipe and drum group “Auļi” and several other well known Latvian musicians creating their very own folk music orchestra. In honour of the 100th anniversary of Latvia, a dance performance “Vēstījums rakstos” was created in collaboration with recognized and experienced choreographers and received the Dance award, which is the highest award in Latvia for professional dance art.

Released music albums: “Es atradu tautasdziemu” (“I found a folk song” translation from Latvian), “Līgo”, Oratorio by Imants Kalniņš “Dzejnieks un nāra” (“Poet and mermaid” translation from Latvian), “Man bij’ dziesmu vācelīte” (“I had a song pouch” translation from Latvian), “Vēstījums rakstos” (“Message in the writings” translation from Latvian).

Latvian University Faculty of Physics, Mathematics and Optometry mixed choir “Aura”

Latvian University Faculty of Physics, Mathematics and Optometry mixed choir “Aura” is comprised of  70 singers from all over Latvia. Founded in 2004, “Aura” began as the Riga Humanitarian Highschool teacher’s choir. Thanks to the enthusiasm of the Artistic Director Edgars Vītols and the two assistant directors Lauma Eglīte and Emīls Rusovs, along with the hard work of the singers, choir “Aura has grown and emerged as one of the top choirs in Latvia. They have successfully participated in many national and international choir competitions such as the 8th World Choir Olympics and 3rd European Choir Olympics in Riga, as well as in contests in Germany, Austria, Malta, The Czech Republic and Spain, bringing home many awards and diplomas.

The choir “Aura” has always participated in the Baltic Student Song and Dance festival “Gaudeamus”, as well as in the Latvian Song and Dance festival. During the Latvian Song festival competition the choir has been given the honour of being part of the top ten best choirs in Latvia. During the most recent song festival in 2023, “Aura” placed third highest.

During this upcoming choir season the choir is planning on participating in the XVI Latvian Song and Dance Festival in Canada, the Baltic Student Song and Dance Festival in Klaipeda, Lithuania, and Hamburg, Germany just in time for the holidays.

Choir “Aura” have had the privilege to collaborate with academic and popular musicians in Latvia. Amongst those are singer Daumants Kalniņš, singer Ance Krauze, composer and pianist Ilze Arne, and maestro Raimonds Pauls.

The choristers themselves believe that “Aura” is probably the best choir in the world. The choir is rounding out its second decade with some beautiful traditions that have emerged over time. These include annual choir retreats in various small towns of Latvia, celebrating member’s birthdays, Christmas ball, night hikes and many other adventures. “Aura” is not just a choir, it is a way of life.

During the festival in Toronto, choir “Aura” will deliver a solo concert in which they will perform various Latvian folk song arrangements, as well as give an insight in the music of the Latvian composer Raimonds Tiguls. The choir will participate in the Sacred music concert and will perform during the Reception organized by the Latvian University as a part of the University’s delegation.

ARTA JĒKABSONE

The XVI Latvian Festival of Song and Dance in Canada is thrilled to announce that Latvia’s “Grand Music Prize” laureate Arta Jēkabsone will be performing, leading two evening programs: a night of jazz at the legendary “Jazz Bistro” before the festival, and an evening of lighter fare at the Sheraton hotel.  Arta Jēkabsone is a vocalist, composer, violinist and arranger.  After graduating from Rīga’s Cathedral Choir School, she received a full scholarship to study at “The New School For Jazz and Contemporary Music” in New York.  Since then, Arta has been a prize winner at several festivals: the Montreux Voice Competition, the Sarah Vaughan International Competition and the Ella Fitzgerald International Vocal Competition. Arta has also recorded her debut CD “Light”.  Performing alongside Arta will be accompanied by many gifted and accomplished musicians: bass player Andrew Downing (a multiple Juno award winner), flautist Ilona Kudiņa (a graduate of both the Berklee School of Music and the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Music Academy, as well as a flautist with Latvia’s National Symphony Orchestra), professor of jazz music at Laval University saxophonist Jānis Steprāns, and Raxtu Raxti acclaimed drummer Artis Orubs.  You are invited to listen to Arta’s velvety voice and her talent for arranging in this following Latvian folk song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v62Iy162Hxk

www.artajekabsone.com

ANNA ŠTUBE

Anna Stube, violinist, is a senior Taylor Academy student in the studios of Jonathan Crow and Barry Shiffman.

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Events at a Glance

2024-08-26T12:19:56-04:00February 6th, 2024|

Džeza vakars

Slavenajā Toronto Jazz Bistro svētku ieskaņā notika džeza vakars Artas Jēkabsones vadībā. Vienkopus pulcējās izcili džeza mūziķi: Andrew Downing (kontrabass), Jānis Steprāns (saksofons), Ilona Kudiņa (flauta), Artis Orubs (sitaminstrumenti), Amanda Tosoff (klavieres).

Jazz night

To kick off the song festival, Arta Jekabsone organized a jazz night at the famous Toronto Jazz Bistro. The night featured artists Andrew Downing (double bass), Janis Steprans (saxophone), Ilona Kudina (flute), Artis Orubs (percussion), Amanda Tosoff (piano).

Kuģīša izbraucieni

Kuģīša izbraucieni:  2024.g. 3. jūlijā, gan pēcpusdienā gan vakarā – bija izdevība izbraukt ekskursijā ar buru laivu “Kajama” pa Ontario ezeru, izbaudīt un apskatīt Toronto pilsētas panorāmu.  Abos izbraukumos kopā līksmoja ap 450 cilvēku, kurus priecēja muzikanti: Katrīna Dimanta un Kalvis Mikelšteins, un uz vakara izbraukumu viņiem piebiedrojās talantīgais mūziķis Andris Mattson ar savu Trompeti. Abi izbraukumi bija pirmie svētku pasākumi, kurus izpārdeva.

Boat Cruise

Boat Cruise: On July 3, both the afternoon and in the evening, we had the opportunity to enjoy a leasurly excursion on lake Ontario with the tall ship “Kayama” and enjoy the panorama of the city of Toronto. A total of 450 people enjoyed both outings and were entertained by musicians Katrīna Dimanta and Kalvis Mikelšteins, and the talented musician Andris Mattson, who joined them with his trumpet on the evening cruise. Both outings were the first festival events to sell out.

Meistarklases

Meistarklase ar kori “Aura” Edgara Vītola vadībā un komponistu Raimondu Tigulu.

Masterclass

Masterclass with choir “Aura”, artistic director Edgars Vītols and composer Raimonds Tiguls

Svētku atklāšana

Svētku Atklāšanā uzklausījām uzrunas no Svētku Rīcības Komitejas Selgas Apse, Latvijas Republikas Kultūras Ministres Agneses Lāces, Latvijas Republikas Vēstnieka Kanadā Kaspara Ozoliņa. Līdztekus sveicieniem skanēja solisti, koris, mazo koklētāju ansamblis, kā arī deju grīdu piepildīja soļi un palēcieni.

Festival opening ceremony

At the festival opening ceremony we heard from Organizing Committee Chair Selga Apse, Latvijas Minister of Culture Agnese Lāce, and Latvian Ambassador to Canada Kaspars Ozoliņš among other dignitaries.  The ceremony also featured soloists, choir, Latvian school kokle ensambles. The dance floor was filled with steps and jumps.

Teātra izrādes “Dziesmu svētki…”

Teātris:  2024.g. 4. jūlija vakarā un 5. jūlija rītā –  Young People’s Teātrī tika uzvesta laikmetīga, moderna luga – “DZIESMU SVĒTKI…”. Lugas autore – Rasa Bugavičute-Pēce. 350 skatītāji iedziļinājās sarunās kopā ar DVTK ansambļa aktieriem, kamēr viņi iztirzāja jautājumu: “Vai Dziesmu svētki šodienas apstākļos ir nepieciešami?”  Izrādes tika sveiktas ar skaļiem aplausiem, ko skatītāji aktieriem veltīja, pieceļoties kājās.

Theatre “Dziesmu svētki…”

Theatre: On the evening of July 4 and the morning of July 5, 2024 – in the Young People’s Theatre – a new, modern play was performed – titled “DZIESMU SVĒTKI” by author Rasa Bugavičute-Pēce. 350 audience members were asked to debate along with the actors the merits and tradition of maintaining the Song Festival in todays complex world.   The multifaceted performances were well received including standing ovations

Garīgās mūzikas koncerts

Garīgās mūzikas koncertā 300 balsu kopkoris pieskandināja Sv. Andreja baznīcu. Kora skaņu kupināja divi viesu kori, orķestris, ērģeles, klavieres, saksofons, solistes Jūlija Plostniece, Ieva Parša un Maija Kovaļevska. 

Sacred music concert

Sacred music concert gathered a mass choir of 300 singers at St. Andrew’s church on Simcoe. Along the mass choir, the concert featured two guest choirs, the festival orchestra, organ, piano, saxophone and soloists Julia Plostnieks, Ieva Parša and Maija Kovaļevska.

TDA Teiksma koncerts

TDA Teiksma, VPDK Teiksma un VPDK DeTeiksma – Raxtu Raxti pavadījumā sniedza skatītājiem vienreizēju koncertu. Skatītāji baudīja reto iespēju redzēt augstākās kvalitātes latviešu tautas dejas Ziemeļamerikā.

Koncertu veidoja / mākslinieciskais vadītājs: Jānis Ērglis

Producenti: Sandis Apse, Selga Apse

The Guest Folk Dance Concert

Accompanied by Raxtu Raxti and under the artistic direction of Jānis Ērglis, this concert featured TDA Teiksma, VPDK Teiksma, and VPDK DeTeiksma. The audience was overjoyed to witness the highest level of Latvian folk dancing rarely seen in North America.

Created by: Jānis Ērglis

Producers: Sandis Apse, Selga Apse

Vakars ar Artu Jēkabsoni

Džeza dziedātāja Arta Jēkabsone izveidoja bagātīgu programmu kopā ar mūziķiem Andrew Downing (kontrabass), Ilonu Kudiņu (flauta), Arti Orubu (sitaminstrumenti), Jāni Steprānu (saksafons) un Amandu Tosoff (klavieres). Koncertā izskanēja Artas orģināldziesmas, bet otrajā daļā skanēja arī grupas mūziķu džeza aranžijas un orģināldarbi. Koncertu papildināja stīgu kvartets un daudzpusīgā deju grupa “Dzirnas” Agra Daņiļēviča vadībā.

Musical Evening with Arta Jēkabsone

Jazz singer Arta Jēkabsone curated a rich evening programme with musicians Andrew Downing (bass), Ilona Kudina (flute), Artis Orubs (percussion), Janis Steprans (saxophone) and Amanda Tosoff (piano). The concert featured original compositions by Arta Jēkabsone, and in the second part also compositions from other band members. The musicians were joined on stage by a string quartet and the multifaceted dance group “Dzirnas”, led by Agris Daņilēvičs.

Jauktā kora “Aura” koncerts

Viesu kora “Aura” un komponista Raimonda Tigula uzstāšanās viesu kora koncertā. Koncerta pirmā daļa bija latviešu orģinālmūzikas un komponista Raimonda Tigula darbu piepildīta. Savukārt otrā daļa bija veidota kā stāsts par latviešu tautas dziesmu.

Guest choir concert

Festival featured Latvian University choir “Aura” and composer Raimonds Tiguls. The choir sung original music by Latvian composers, including Tiguls. The second half of the concert was narrated like a story about the Latvian folksong.

Ceļojums ar klasiku: latviešu kamermūzika un opermūzikas pērles

Koncertā Ceļojums ar klasiku: latviešu kamermūzika un opermūzikas pērles publiku priecēja svētku orķestris maestro Farhada Stades vadībā, pianisti Rūdolfs Ozoliņš un Pēteris Zariņš, vijolniece Anna Štube, izcilais Brusubārdis kvartets, ēŗģelnieks Dāvids Šmits, operdziedātāja Maija Kovaļevska, komponists Raimonds Tiguls.

Concert A Journey with Classics: Latvian Chamber Music and Opera Music

Concert A Journey with Classics: Latvian Chamber Music and Opera Music featured the festival orchestra, led by maestro Farhads Stade, pianists Rudolf Ozolins and Peteris Zarins, violinist Anna Stube, the outstanding Brusubardis quartet, organist David Smits, opera soprano Maija Kovalevska, and composer Raimonds Tiguls.

Bērnu balle

Piektdienas vakarā, 5. jūlijā – lustīga, enerģijas pilna “Bērnu balle” Šeraton viesnīcā.  Vairāk kā 325 bērni un viņu vecāki varēja ballēties kopā ar Bērnu vokālo grupu “Dzeguzīte” no Latvijas.  “Dzeguzīte” iepriecināja klātesošos ar 45 minūšu programmu, kur bērni un jaunieši dejoja, dziedāja un izbaudīja balles gaisnotni.  Sekoja rotaļas un pāru dejas, Andras Dzintaras vadībā. 

Children’s Ball

Friday evening, July 5 – a fun, energetic “Children’s Ball” at the Sheraton Hotel! More than 325 children and their parents were able to celebrate with the children’s vocal group “Dzeguzīte” from Latvia. “Dzeguzīte” delighted the audience with a 45-minute program, where children and people young at heart danced, sang and enjoyed the atmosphere of the Ball. Rotaļas and latvian couple dances followed, led by Andra Dzintars.

Raxtu Raxti

1,150 skatītāji piektdienas vakarā. Raxtu raxti koncertā priecēja gan ar labi pazīstamām, gan jaunākām dziesmām.  Daļa skatītāju mierīgi sēdēja un baudīja koncertu, kamēr citi dziedāja un dejoja līdzi no sirds.  Zālē bija jūtāms neizsīkstošs prieks par latviešu mūziku!

Raxtu Raxti

Folk music band “Raxtu Raxti” Concert. 1,150 spectators on Friday evening, July 5th, enjoyed both well-known and newer songs by the popular contemporary folk music band Raxtu Raxti. Some sat and enjoyed the concert, while others sang and danced along from their hearts. You could feel the joy of Latvian music in the hall!

Jaundeju Skate

Jaundeju skatē piedalījās 17 horeogrāfi no Kanadas, ASV un Latvijas ar 20 dejām. Par labākām horeogrāfijām balsoja skates deju kopas, horeogrāfi un izpārdotās skates apmeklētāji. Augstāko vispārējo punktu skaitu saņēma Lilijas Liporas deja Pilna rinda piesēdusi un skatītāju balvu saņēma Agra Daņileviča deja Meitas mani melli sauca. Pilni rezultāti pieejami šeit: Jaundeju skates rezultāti.

Jaundeju skati veidoja: Kārlis Cērps, Andra Dzintara, Tija Freimuta, Kintija Palma, Zane Ziemele

Producente: Zane Ziemele

Administratori un palīgi: Sandis Apse, Selga Apse, Vineta Caune, Austra Gulēna, Ēriks Kalviņš, Kintija Palma, Kristaps Roze, Natālija Vāgnere

Paldies Daugavas Vanagiem Kanadā par atbalstu horeogrāfu balvām!

New Choreography Showcase

The New Choreography Showcase featured 20 dances by 17 choreographers from Canada, the US, and Latvia. Participating dance groups, choreographers, and the sold out audience voted for their favourite dances. Lilija Lipora’s dance Pilna rinda piesēdusi received the highest overall point total and Agris Daņilevičs’s dance Meitas mani melli sauca received the Audience Favourite Award. Full results are available here: Jaundeju skates rezultāti.

Created by: Kārlis Cērps, Andra Dzintara, Tija Freimuta, Kintija Palma, Zane Ziemele

Producer: Zane Ziemele

Administrators and Assistants: Sandis Apse, Selga Apse, Vineta Caune, Austra Gulēna, Ēriks Kalviņš, Kintija Palma, Kristaps Roze, Natālija Vāgnere

Thank you to Daugavas Vanagi Kanadā for their financial support.

Kopkora koncerts

Kopkora koncerts Let’s, lec, Letts! vienkopus pulcēja 900 dziedātājus, orķestri, solistus, diriģentus, kompnistus. Roy Thomson zāles lieliskajā akustikā mēs godinājām latviešu koŗa dziesmu ar ilgi gaidīto kopkoŗa koncertu. Šis bija lielākais un akustiski skanīgākais kopkoris kāds redzēts gadiem!  Visi klātesošie īpaši novērtēja uzrunu no Latvijas Republikas Valsts Prezidenta Edgara Rinkēviča.

Mass choir concert

The mass choir concert Let’s, lec, Letts! featured a choir with over 900 singers, the festival orchestra, soloists, conductors and composers. The great acoustic of Roy Thomson Hall resounded honouring the Latvian choir song in this long-awaited concert. This was the biggest and acoustically most accomplished mass choir concert in years!  All in attendance were delighted by the presence and speech by the President of the Latvian Republic, Edgars Rinkēvičs. 

Svētku vakariņas

Svētku vakariņas atgriezās XVI Latviešu Dziesmu un Deju svētkos, 200 cilvēkiem baudot Prezidenta Edgara Rinkēviča un Kultūras ministres Agneses Lāces klātieni. Rīkotājas – korporācija “Spīdola”, Ineses Fludes vadībā, gādāja par elegantu gaisotni. Juris Ķeniņš kā vakara saimnieks un virsdiriģenti no Latvijas rūpējās par sadziedāšanos. Kultūras ministre Agnese Lāce un vīrs Pauls Miklaševics, ar komponistu Raimondu Tiguli pie klavierēm, novadīja “Zilo lakatiņu”.

Festival Banquet

The Festival Banquet returned to the XVI Festival of Song and Dance in Canada, 200 patrons enjoying the company of President Edgars Rinkēvičs and Minister of Culture Agnese Lāce.  The sorority “Spīdola” undertook organizing the elegant event under the leadership of Inese Flude, with Juris Ķeniņš as the evening host.  Conductors from Latvia lead the communal singing, with even the Minister of Culture leading “Zilais lakatiņš” with her husband Pauls Miklaševics and composer Raimonds Tiguls at the piano.

Svētku balle

Svētku Balle – balle pulcēja vairāk nekā 2100 gaviļnieku, kuri baudīja patiesu svētku sajūtu. Balles dalībnieki visu vakaru priecājās un dejoja pie Bostonas “Papardes zieds” un Čikāgas “Adam Zahl” mūzikas.

Festival ball

The Festival Grand Ball brought together over 2,100 revelers enjoying a true feeling of celebration.  They danced the night away to the music of “Papardes zieds” from Boston and Adam Zahl  from Chicago.

Rakstnieku cēliens

Dziesmu svētku prieka lādiņš turpina nest caur vasaru! Rakstnieku cēliena astoņi dalībnieki, ko Andras Zommeres vīzija saveda kopā meža krustcelēs (kaut Sheraton viesnīcā), piepulcēja pārpildītu zāli ar 170 skatītājiem. Liels paldies un pateicība visiem dalīniekiem: Rasai Bugavičutei-Pēcei, Mārai Gulens, Karl E. Jirgens, Matejam Kalnam, Laris Kreslins & Iryna Halaway, Baņutai Rubess, Michaele Weissman! 

Writers’ Symposium

The Writers’ Symposium brought a packed house of over 170 attendees and a lot of excitement – as someone from the public commented, “what an amazing event, and an unexpected highlight of the festival”. Many thanks Andra Zommers, Rasa Bugavičute-Pēce, Māra Gulēns, Karl Jirgens, Matejs Kalns, Laris Krēsliņš, Iryna Halaway, Baņuta Rubess and Michaele Weissman!

Tautas deju lieluzvedums

Tautas deju lieluzvedumā piedalījās vairāk kā 850 dejotāji no Kanadas, ASV, Eiropas un Latvijas. Ar Raxtu Raxtu un Dziesmu Svētku koru dzīvo mūzikas pavadījumu, dejotāji izpildīja raitu un jautru programmu ar senām un modernām horeogrāfijām, tajā skaitā slaveno Kanadas horeogrāfu dejas un dejas no Latviešu zelta repertuāra. Svētku pēdējais koncerts un oficiālais noslēgums – Tautas deju lieluzvedums bija izpārdots!

Koncertu veidoja: Sandis Apse, Selga Apse, Kārlis Cērps, Austra Gulēna, Tija Freimuta, Ēriks Kalviņš

Administratori un palīgi: Vineta Caune, Andra Dzintara, Kintija Palma, Kristaps Roze, Natālija Vāgnere, Zane Ziemele

Mūziķi: “Raxtu Raxti” – Kristīne Kārkle-Kalniņa, Marts Kristiāns Kalniņš, Edgars Kārlis, Jānis Bērziņš, Armands Trelihs, Artis Orubs

Kora aranžējums un diriģents: Juris Ķeniņš

Folk Dance Spectacle

The Folk Dance Spectacle featured more than 850 dancers from Canada, the US, Europe, and Latvia. The dancers performed a lively and joyful program of both historic and modern choreographies, including works by famous Canadian choreographers and works by Latvian classics. They were accompanied by the live music of Raxtu Raxti and the Song Festival choir. The final concert of the Festival and its official closing the Spectacle was a sold out event!

Created by: Sandis Apse, Selga Apse, Kārlis Cērps, Austra Gulēna, Tija Freimuta, Ēriks Kalviņš

Administrators and Assistants: Vineta Caune, Andra Dzintara, Kintija Palma, Kristaps Roze, Natālija Vāgnere, Zane Ziemele

Musicians: “Raxtu Raxti” – Kristīne Kārkle-Kalniņa, Marts Kristiāns Kalniņš, Edgars Kārlis, Jānis Bērziņš, Armands Trelihs, Artis Orubs

Choral Arrangements and Conductor: Juris Ķeniņš

Atvadu balle

Kanadas Latviešu Centrs Toronto bija izpušķots un gatavs uzņemt vairāk nekā 800 tautiešus.  Tik pilns centrs nav redzēts 20 vai pat 30 gadus?!?!  Muzicēja “Skandāls” un “Penzionāri”, baudīja Valmiermuižas alu, draudzējās, runāja un dejoja!

Farewell Ball

The Latvian Canadian Cultural Centre was decorated from top to bottom and welcomed more than 800 Latvians.  The Centre hasn’t seen a crowd that size in 20 or even 30 years!?!?!  Skandāls and Penzionāri delighted those who wanted to dance, while others enjoyed Valmiermuiža beer and conversation.

Latviešu Daiļamatnieku Izstāde “Toreiz Un Tagad”

XVI Latviešu Dziesmu un Deju svētku ietvaros, Latviešu daiļamatnieku savienība Kanadā rīkoja izstādi “Toreiz un tagad” savas 70+ gadu pastāvēšanas iezīmē, godinot senos meistarus, kuri bija trimdas kultūras stūrakmeņi, kā arī mūsdienu daiļamatniekus. 

Māra Ķenina, 

Atbildīgā rīkotāja

Latvian Artisans’ Exhibit “Then and Now”

As part of the XVI Latvian Festival of Song and Dance in Canada, the Latvian Artisans’ Association in Canada organized an exhibit “Then and Now” to commemorate its 70+ years of activity.  The exhibit featured works by master artisans, who were the founders of Latvian culture in Canada, as well as works by contemporary artisans.

Mara Kenins, 

Exhibit Chair

Valmiermuižas alus Toronto

2023. gada vasarā gadījās nejauša tikšanās ar Valmiermuižas alus darītavas pārstāvi Pārslu Jansoni. Tika uzsāktas pārrunās par alus importēšanu uz XVI Dziesmu un Deju svētkiem Kanadā. Sekoja vairākas tikšanās un pateicoties alus pārziņa Viestura Zariņa lielajam darbam, projekts izdevās un Valmiermužas alus bija pieejams Sheraton viesnīcā gan bāros, gan svētku pasākumos.

Valmiermuižas alus Toronto

In the summer of 2023, a happenstance meeting with Valmiermuiža Brewery representative Pārsla Jansone led to a discussion about the possible importing of their beer to the XVI Festival of Song and Dance in Canada.  Several meetings later, and thanks to the hard work of beer guru Viesturs Zariņš, Latvian beer was available in Sheraton bars and at Festival evening events.

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About the organization

2023-01-25T12:38:43-05:00April 24th, 2018|

Latvian Song and Dance Festivals

About The Organization

World War II refugees from Latvia, finding sanctuary in Canada immediately founded congregations and schools, and along with them, choirs and folk dance groups.  The first Latvian choir in Canada, indeed North America, was a choir of Latvian refugee gold miners in northern Ontario, founded by composer Imants Sakss in 1948.  Sakss went on the found the choir of the Hamilton Latvian Society not long after.

Understandably, these refugees wanted to recreate the song festival traditions of Latvia, that, in many people’s view, helped create a nation.  The first such festival in Latvia (these festivals are on the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage) took place in 1873 in Rīga, the first festivals in the “New World” in 1953, in both Chicago and Toronto.

The Latvian Song Festival Association in Canada was founded in 1958, (following the Second Latvian Song Festival in Canada), to provide support for future festivals.  Since that time, the LSFAC has been responsible for all festivals, choosing festival dates and location, recommending an organizing committee, compiling suggestions from the membership and providing operating capital.  LSFAC members are all Latvian choirs and dance groups in Canada, and all the organizations that are stakeholders in the festival.

From the very beginning, the of song festivals aim was to maintain cultural traditions, and to support choirs and dance groups until the time when Latvia would be free from oppression again.  The earliest organizers were often also creative artists: composers and choreographers, authors and visual artists, and new creations have always had a large role in Canadian and American festivals.  The current festival will be replete with new works in music and dance, literature and art.

Since Latvia’s renewed independence, the focus of the song festival association is also on Latvia, and working together with its singers and dancers and other artists.  All festivals since 1991 have enjoyed the participation of artists from Latvia, and for 2019, we are preparing for a particularly large number of guests.  In the opposite direction, the Latvian Ministry of Culture and National Cultural Centre have sent choir conductors and dance masters to help our singers and dancers to prepare for festivals in Latvia, which they are doing in increasingly large numbers.

Several generations of professional artists in all disciplines have grown up outside of Latvia, and the festivals are wonderful opportunities for them to share their talents next to colleagues from Latvia.

As Latvians sing in a favourite folk song “My father’s town was small, but mighty!”.  Outside of Latvia, we are that small town of Latvians, very far from the capital city Rīga, but we ARE mighty!

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Organizing Committee Members

2023-01-27T08:36:47-05:00April 24th, 2018|

Selga Apse

Chair

Passionate about Latvian folk dance, Selga began dancing at the age of 3, and has been directing the youth dance group Daugaviņa for more than 25 years. She has served in various capacities on the Folk Dance committee of the Song and Dance Festivals in Canada since 1996. She particularly enjoys teaching dance and inspiring youth to love both Latvian folk dance and Latvian culture. She is honoured and thrilled to serve as one of the Directors for the Dance Spectacular at both the 2018 and 2023 Song and Dance Festival in Riga, Latvia. Selga works at the Weston Family Foundation. When not immersed in dance or work, you can find her walking, paddling or skiing.

George Kenins

Vice Chair

George Juris Kenins has been an active musician, (cellist, conductor and composer), and teacher and lecturer among Canadians and North American Latvians. For the past three Latvian Song Festivals in Canada, he has been chair of the music committee, and currently is chair of the Latvian Song Festival Association in Canada. For the XV Latvian Festival of Song and Dance in Canada he is chair of the organizing committee. The Latvian State Choir recently premiered his song “Es gribētu!” (I wish) and subsequently commissioned a new sacred work. “Missa Brevis Latviensis” was premiered in August, 2017, recorded by Latvian Radio, and will be performed at the Toronto festival’s Concert of Sacred Music by the State Choir. He is vice president of the Latvian National Federation in Canada and its chair of culture, board member of the World Federation of Free Latvians (PBLA), and is chair of the PBLA Cultural Foundation.

Tija Freimuta

Vice Chair

Born and raised in Toronto, Tija has been involved in the local Latvian community her whole life. She is a graduate of the Toronto Latvian primary school “Valodiņa” and the local Latvian high school as well. She has danced in local folk dance groups “Diždancītis”, “Mēnestiņš”, and “Daugaviņa”, as well as being administrator of the folk dance group “Daugaviņa” for ten years. Tija was Youth Advisor on the Organizing Committee of the 2019 Song Festival in Toronto, and also served as a member of the Dance Committee and Chair of the New Choreographies Committee. For the 2024 Festival, she has taken on the roles of Vice-Chair of the Organizing Committee and head of the Dance Committee. In her everyday life, Tija works as Program Manager for The Second City Training Centres. In her free time Tija cheers for the Toronto Raptors and Blue Jays, volunteers at the Etobicoke Humane Society, binge-watches TV and drinks a lot of tea.

Andra Dzintara

Andra always loved taking part on Latvian culture, especially folk dancing, since her first song and dance festival at the age of 6. Andra has loved taking the stage with groups like Toronto Daugaviņa and Hamiltonas Vainadzinš- even receiving the top prize for the 2019 Toronto viewer’s choice award for her co-choreography “Svētku Sēta”. Andra is excited to take the reigns as Social Media coordinator, showcasing all the that Toronto has to offer, as well as showcasing all the groups that are excited to participate in the 2024 festival. Andra currently resides in Toronto with her husband and little dog Rosie.

Arnis Markitants

Since childhood, Arnis has participated in Latvian folk dancing and later as an actor in the Latvian DV theater. He took a leading role in organizing the musical “Esslingena” shows in Riga – at the National Theater.  Arnis participates in several Latvian charity organizations on their board of directors, and is the chairman of the Latvian Relief Society of Canada, Toronto branch.  Noted as a pretty good pīrāgu baker.

Kaspars Reinis

Kaspars Reinis is the head of the Music Committee for the festival. He is a lifelong choir singer with a Latvian predisposition. Kaspars currently resides in Ottawa, where he actively participates in the Latvian community by organising events and teaching at the Latvian school. On his free days he can often be found wandering around in “Tērvete” forests and foraging for mushrooms.

Mareks Nēgels

Since relocating to Canada in 2009, Mareks has been an active member of the Toronto Latvian community. As a dancer, he participated in groups such as Diždancis and Dižais Dancis. For many years he took on the role of troupe leader for the children’s dance group Mēnestiņš. He was an active member of the planning committee for the 2014 Hamilton song and dance festival, and took on the responsibility of ticket sales in 2019.

In his spare time Mareks like to travel, travel, travel, ski, and travel some more.

Māra Leja

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Participant Info

2024-05-01T11:05:25-04:00May 1st, 2018|

🎯 Do participants have to pay for the events that they participate in?

 

No, you don’t have to purchase ticket or pay a participation fee. However, we ask that participants take care of their own meals.

We will provide lunch:

  • Thursday, July 4, 12:00 – 13:00, for the participants of the Sacred Music concert (choir, orchestra, soloists, musicians, conductors), @ St. Andrew’s church.
  • Saturday, July 6, 13:00 – 14:00, fort the participants of the mass choir concert “Let’s, lec, Letts!” (choir, orchestra, soloists, conductors)

 

🎯 What events can participants plan for when arriving in Toronto?

 

Participants are responsible for planning their own activities. The festival Market, Art exhibit and Artisan and Crafts exhibit will be free of charge at the festival hotel – Sheraton. Participants from Latvia will each receive a free ticket to the Festival Ball on Saturday. The festival organizers do not have the capacity to organize and provide excursions during the festival. We recommend that the participants do their own research on available commercial excursions, such as to the Niagara falls: https://www.niagaratorontotours.com/

 

🎯 When do we have rehersals?

Depending on which concerts you participate in, here is a list of rehearsals.

 

July 3:

 18:00-20:30    Sacred Music concert rehersal @ StA

July 4:

 9:00-12:00        Sacred Music concert rehersal @ StA

9:00-10:30         Festival opening ceremony rehersal @ Š

17:00-19:30      Mass choir rehersal @ StA

July 5:

8:00-11:30         Mass choir rehersal @ Š

8:00-13:00         Classic music concert rehersal @ StA

July 6:

8:00-13:00         Mass choir rehersal @ RTH

July 7:

10:00-13:00      Dance choir rehersal @ M

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An Announcement about Tickets!

2019-06-26T15:03:25-04:00June 26th, 2019|Event News|

The Festival Organizing Committee is pleasantly surprised to see so many people will be attending our festival! Over the last 20 years, festival attendance has declined on average by 10-15% ; however, this is not the case this year! Understandably, many of you are upset that some events are already sold out, especially the Folk Dance Spectacle. We understand your disappointment and are looking for a way for guests to buy and sell tickets from each other. 

We are also hoping that, closer to each event, it may still be possible to obtain tickets to the Folk Dance Spectacle directly from the Mattamy Athletic Centre. We are still working out the details, but would like to assure everyone that every attempt is being made to find a solution. We will share any updates on our website and social media as soon as it is available. Unfortunately, for all events, the number of tickets is limited to the capacity permitted at the venue. 

Wishing everyone a wonderful time at the Festival!

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Participant’s Calendar

2019-01-01T21:10:13-05:00November 1st, 2018|

Wednesday, July 3

Time Event Venue
19:00 Sacred Music Concert Rehearsal  Trinity St. Paul Church

Thursday, July 4

Time Event Venue
08:00 Sacred Music Concert Rehearsal Trinity St. Paul Church
15:30 Līgo Group Rehearsal Bluma Appel

Friday, July 5

Time Event Venue
08:00 New Choreography Showcase Rehearsal Bluma Appel
08:00 Chamber Music Rehearsal Koerner Hall
08:00 Mass Choir Concert Rehearsal Hilton Toronto Hotel
10:00 State Choir LATVIJA Rehearsal Koerner Hall
14:00 Orchestral Rehearsal Koerner Hall
14:00 The Cabaret Rehearsal Hilton Toronto Hotel

Saturday, July 6

Time Event Venue
08:00 Folk Dance Spectacle Rehearsal Mattamy Athletic Centre
08:00 Mass Choir Rehearsal Mattamy Athletic Centre

Sunday, July 7

Time Event Venue
08:00 Folk Dance Spectacle Rehearsal Mattamy Athletic Centre

Events for this year’s festival

These are the events we are hosting during the festival.

LIGO

TDA “Līgo” is one of Latvia’s most-awarded dance groups. The group is led by Jānis Purviņš, an extremely talented and creative individual who has been Artistic and Executive Director for many Song Festivals in Latvia. He is the author of many unique and compelling choreographies. This concert will allow the audience a chance to see new dances and experience the emotional connection Jānis and the group have with Latvian dance.

New Choreography Showcase

The New Choreography Showcase will feature submissions from dance groups from Canada, the U.S.A., Latvia, and elsewhere in Europe. As our country evolves, so do our dances. This showcase will provide an opportunity for the audience to enjoy and support new choreographies and witness the creative process in action. The Latvian dance tradition is alive and well and will be on full display in this Showcase.

The State Choir LATVIJA

Recognized as one of the world’s great vocal ensembles, the Festivals featured guest choir the State Choir LATVIJA with artistic director and conductor Maris Sirmais will have their Canadian debut at Koerner Hall on Friday, July 5 at 7:30 pm. The program will include works by both Canadian and Latvian composers many of which were composed specifically for them.

Cabaret

Another significant event presented by the Festival will be a Cabaret evening on Friday, July 5 at our host hotel, the Hilton Toronto on University Ave., showcasing the best of Latvian popular music.

Mass Choir Concert

Always the highlight of the Festival, the Mass Choir Concert, more than 500 voices strong, will take place on Saturday, July 6, 15:00 at the Mattamy Athletic Centre (Maple Leaf Gardens) and will bring together Latvian choirs from all over world in a program of Latvian Choral favorites and newly commissioned works by young Latvian composers from Canada, the USA, Australia and Latvia.

Folk Dance Spectacle

Lastly, we have our. It will showcase the many dance groups from all over the world coming together and performing on the same dance floor. They will use the steps of various dances to create beautiful patterns and symbols visible to the audience. There will be a live musical accompaniment to enhance the experience for dancers and audience alike. This Spectacle will show to the world what is most important to the dancers themselves: Friendship – Joy – and a love of Latvian dance!

The Concert of Sacred Music

The Concert of Sacred Music at Trinity-St. Paul’s United Church on Thursday, July 4, 16:00 with Choir and Orchestra will feature Canadian composer Imant Raminsh stunning Ave Verum Corpus and the North American premiere of the Missa Brevis Latviensis by Toronto composer George Juris Kenins. This work, commissioned by the outstanding State Choir LATVIJA in 2017, was first performed by them in Riga, Latvia on August 22, 2017 to great critical acclaim. Dedicated to, and inspired by, the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation, it is a significant addition to the catalogue of Canadian Sacred Choral music. Both of these works will be performed by our principal guest choir.

Other Latvian Canadian composers on the program include Talivaldis Kenins, Arvids Purvs and Erika Yost as well as works by Ella Mačēna (Australia) Brigita Ritmane, Adolfs Abele, Victors Baštiks (USA / Latvia) Andrejs Jurjans, Alfreds Kalnins and Ēriks Ešenvalds (Latvia).

Concert of Orchestral and Chamber Music

The Concert of Orchestral and Chamber Music on Friday, July 5, 16:00 at Koerner Hall will include the works of three major Canadian Composers of Latvian heritage and will serve as a launch party for a new CD being added to the Canadian Music Centre’s catalogue of works by Talivaldis Kenins, Imants Raminsh and Janis Kalnins.

This concert will include a performance of the recently recovered and restored Violin Concerto by Janis Kalnins featured on the new CD. Originally composed in 1946, in a refugee camp in Lubeck, Germany, it was last performed in Canada in 1962 after Janis Kalnins had immigrated to Fredericton where he played an important role in the creation of The New Brunswick Symphony.

The concert will also include Talivaldis Kenins 1953 “Scherzo concertante” for small orchestra, Imants Raminsh “Aria” for violin and piano and an overture by Emmy award winning Latvian-American composer Lolita Ritmane.

Featured artists include pianist Arthur Ozolins, violinist Laura Zarina, flautist Agita Cerusa and the Canadian Opera Company Orchestra lead by conductor Maris Sirmais from Latvia.

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Participant’s Calendar

2019-01-25T13:40:27-05:00January 25th, 2019|

Thursday, July 4

Time Event Venue
08:00 Sacred Music Concert Rehearsal Trinity St. Paul Church
08:00 Opening Ceremonies Rehearsal Hilton Toronto Hotel
15:30 Līgo Group Rehearsal Bluma Appel

Friday, July 5

Time Event Venue
08:00 New Choreography Showcase Rehearsal Bluma Appel
08:00 State Choir “Latvija” Concert Rehearsal Koerner Hall
08:00 Massed Choir Concert Rehearsal Hilton Toronto Hotel
13:00 Chamber Music Rehearsal Koerner Hall
14:00 Orchestral Rehearsal Koerner Hall
14:00 The Cabaret Rehearsal Hilton Toronto Hotel

Saturday, July 6

Time Event Venue
08:00 Folk Dance Spectacle Rehearsal Mattamy Athletic Centre
08:00 Massed Choir Rehearsal Mattamy Athletic Centre

Sunday, July 7

Time Event Venue
08:00 Folk Dance Spectacle Rehearsal Mattamy Athletic Centre

Events for this year’s festival

These are the events we are hosting during the festival.

LIGO

TDA “Līgo” is one of Latvia’s most-awarded dance groups. The group is led by Jānis Purviņš, an extremely talented and creative individual who has been Artistic and Executive Director for many Song Festivals in Latvia. He is the author of many unique and compelling choreographies. This concert will allow the audience a chance to see new dances and experience the emotional connection Jānis and the group have with Latvian dance.

New Choreography Showcase

The New Choreography Showcase will feature submissions from dance groups from Canada, the U.S.A., Latvia, and elsewhere in Europe. As our country evolves, so do our dances. This showcase will provide an opportunity for the audience to enjoy and support new choreographies and witness the creative process in action. The Latvian dance tradition is alive and well and will be on full display in this Showcase.

The State Choir LATVIJA

Recognized as one of the world’s great vocal ensembles, the Festivals featured guest choir the State Choir LATVIJA with artistic director and conductor Maris Sirmais will have their Canadian debut at Koerner Hall on Friday, July 5 at 7:30 pm. The program will include works by both Canadian and Latvian composers many of which were composed specifically for them.

Cabaret

Another significant event presented by the Festival will be a Cabaret evening on Friday, July 5 at our host hotel, the Hilton Toronto on University Ave., showcasing the best of Latvian popular music.

Mass Choir Concert

Always one of the highlights of the Festival, the Mass Choir Concert, more than 500 voices strong, will take place on Saturday, July 6, 15:00 at the Mattamy Athletic Centre (Maple Leaf Gardens) and will bring together Latvian choirs from all over world in a program of Latvian Choral favorites and newly commissioned works by young Latvian composers from Canada, the USA, Australia and Latvia.

Folk Dance Spectacle

Lastly, we have our. It will showcase the many dance groups from all over the world coming together and performing on the same dance floor. They will use the steps of various dances to create beautiful patterns and symbols visible to the audience. There will be a live musical accompaniment to enhance the experience for dancers and audience alike. This Spectacle will show to the world what is most important to the dancers themselves: Friendship – Joy – and a love of Latvian dance!

The Concert of Sacred Music

The Concert of Sacred Music at Trinity-St. Paul’s United Church on Thursday, July 4, 16:00 with Choir and Orchestra will feature Canadian composer Imant Raminsh stunning Ave Verum Corpus and the North American premiere of the Missa Brevis Latviensis by Toronto composer George Juris Kenins. This work, commissioned by the outstanding State Choir LATVIJA in 2017, was first performed by them in Riga, Latvia on August 22, 2017 to great critical acclaim. Dedicated to, and inspired by, the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation, it is a significant addition to the catalogue of Canadian Sacred Choral music. Both of these works will be performed by our principal guest choir.

Other Latvian Canadian composers on the program include Talivaldis Kenins, Arvids Purvs and Erika Yost as well as works by Ella Mačēna (Australia) Brigita Ritmane, Adolfs Abele, Victors Baštiks (USA / Latvia) Andrejs Jurjans, Alfreds Kalnins and Ēriks Ešenvalds (Latvia).

Concert of Orchestral and Chamber Music

The Concert of Orchestral and Chamber Music on Friday, July 5, 16:00 at Koerner Hall will include the works of three major Canadian Composers of Latvian heritage and will serve as a launch party for a new CD being added to the Canadian Music Centre’s catalogue of works by Talivaldis Kenins, Imants Raminsh and Janis Kalnins.

This concert will include a performance of the recently recovered and restored Violin Concerto by Janis Kalnins featured on the new CD. Originally composed in 1946, in a refugee camp in Lubeck, Germany, it was last performed in Canada in 1962 after Janis Kalnins had immigrated to Fredericton where he played an important role in the creation of The New Brunswick Symphony.

The concert will also include Talivaldis Kenins 1953 “Scherzo concertante” for small orchestra, Imants Raminsh “Aria” for violin and piano and an overture by Emmy award winning Latvian-American composer Lolita Ritmane.

Featured artists include pianist Arthur Ozolins, violinist Laura Zarina, flautist Agita Cerusa and the Canadian Opera Company Orchestra lead by conductor Maris Sirmais from Latvia.

Read More
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