The Baltic Chant

Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia stroke new paths as independent states 100 years ago. To commemorate this turning point in our modern history, we will open our 2018 festival with the programme “The Baltic Chant,” featuring works by composers from all three Baltic States performed by musicians from across the Baltics. The Klaipėda Chamber Orchestra will become the binding thread, running through the entire programme. The Orchestra’s artistic director, Mindaugas Bačkus, and the leader of the cello section, Gleb Pyšniak, will appear solo in Arvydas Malcys’ Concerto grosso. Incidentally, the composer happens to be the cellist himself.

A distinguished Latvian pianist and composer, Vestards Šimkus, who has Lithuanian roots, will perform solo in his own Piano Concerto.

Estonia will be represented by the composer whose name has become synonymous with the country‘s musical culture. In the performance of Arvo Pärt’s Te Deum, the Klaipėda Chamber Orchestra will be joined by the Šiauliai State Choir “Polifonija” (led by Tomas Ambrozaitis). The whole Baltic programme was entrusted to renowned Estonian conductor Andres Mustonen whose extensive concertizing has helped build bridges not only between the three Baltic States but also between different peoples around the world.