Andalusian Sun in Wintery Riga: Premiere of the “Bolero” Program — February 19, 20 & 21 at Riga St. Paul Church, A. Deglava iela 1
On February 19, 20 and 21, a new concert program “Bolero” will be presented in Riga, dedicated to the Southern musical tradition in classical music in an unusual format — featuring organ, harp, and percussion. For many years, images of Spain have inspired European composers, from Glinka and Liszt to Bizet, Debussy, and Ravel. Drawing on Spanish folklore, they reinterpreted it with respect for its distinctive color, transforming folk motifs into academic masterpieces. The blending of European musical language with the heritage of indigenous peoples and African rhythms in Latin America led to the creation of some of the most popular classical music of the 20th century and the emergence of new musical genres. Hallmarks of bolero include rhythm, gradual flowing development, temperament, a vivid palette of sound colors, and strong emotional expression.
At the heart of the program are the sensual “Habanera” from Georges Bizet’s opera Carmen, the hypnotic “Bolero” by Maurice Ravel, the lyrical Adagio from the Concierto de Aranjuez, tangos by Astor Piazzolla, and the explosive Danzón No. 2. Together, these works create a sense of rhythm, movement, and warmth — a rare experience in February Riga.
The project is presented by OKONCERTS.LV, which has been organizing organ concerts in Latvia, Estonia, and Germany since 2018. OKONCERTS.LV is known for its strong focus on concert atmosphere: organ performances take place by candlelight in historic churches, enhanced by visual projections and modern lighting effects that delicately complement the music. Over the past seven years, OKONCERTS.LV has presented more than 25 unique thematic programs, introducing audiences to a wide musical landscape — from the profound works of Bach and Vivaldi to beloved film soundtracks and iconic Broadway classics.
The concert features outstanding Latvian musicians: Ilona Birģele, chief organist of Riga Cathedral and founder and director of the festival “Latvia — Land of Organs”; Ilze Kirsanova, leading violinist of the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra; Irina Vilegžanina, cellist and laureate of international competitions; Ekaterina Suvorova, harpist of the Latvian National Opera Orchestra; and Virdžīnija Laube-Vītina, percussionist and member of the Latvian National Opera Orchestra and Orchestra “Riga.” The unusual ensemble — organ, harp, and percussion — gives familiar works a fresh and distinctive sound.
An integral part of the evening will be the setting of St. Paul’s Church. Its Neo-Gothic vaults, soft candlelight, and visual projections will create a special atmosphere in which music, architecture, and light merge into a single artistic experience. For two evenings, wintery Riga will be transformed into a territory of Southern temperament and sonic sunshine.
