Turaida Rose Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Thrilling Performance at Amber Concert Hall

August 20, 2025

Riga, Latvia – The Horizonts brass band concluded a landmark performance last night to a jubilant crowd, earning a letter of gratitude from Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa for their significant contributions to Latvian culture. The concert, a celebration of the band’s achievements, took place at a prominent concert hall and featured a special rendition of Imants Kalniņš’s celebrated piece, “Turaida Rose.”

A Night of Musical Excellence

The evening’s program included compositions specifically created for the band by composer Imants Kalniņš, including pieces inspired by Latvian folklore and natural landscapes like “In the Woods,” “Wind,” and “Linden.” The performance also showcased lesser-known works, offering audiences a fresh viewpoint on the band’s extensive repertoire. The Horizonts band, under the direction of conductor Thomas kokamegi, was welcomed onto the stage with a grand entrance accompanied by a brass band parade.

The concert culminated in an eager standing ovation, with audience members eager to meet the musicians for autographs and photographs during an informal reception following the performance. The event marked a key milestone in the band’s history, commemorated by the Prime Minister’s official recognition of their cultural impact.

Upcoming performances

Fans of the Horizonts band can look forward to upcoming concerts scheduled for August 28th at 7:00 PM at the “Mītava” open-air concert hall in Jelgava, and October 22nd at 7:00 PM at the slampe Culture Palace.Tickets are currently available for purchase through the “Biļešu paradīze” ticketing network.

Location	Date	Time
Jelgava, “Mītava”	August 28, 2025	7:00 PM
Slampe Culture Palace	October 22, 2025	7:00 PM

Did You Know? Brass band music has a long and storied tradition in Latvia, frequently enough playing a vital role in community events and national celebrations.

Pro Tip: Purchase concert tickets in advance,especially for popular venues like “Mītava,” to secure your preferred seating.

The Enduring Power of Latvian Brass Bands

The popularity of brass bands in Latvia extends far beyond mere entertainment; they represent a crucial element of the country’s cultural identity. Dating back to the 19th century,thes ensembles initially formed as part of local communities and military units,providing musical accompaniment for festive occasions and patriotic events. Today, Latvian brass bands continue to thrive, adapting to modern musical trends while preserving their rich heritage.

According to a 2024 report by the Latvian Ministry of Culture, participation in amateur music groups, including brass bands, has steadily increased over the past decade, indicating a renewed interest in conventional arts. Latvian Ministry of Culture

frequently Asked Questions About Horizonts

• What type of music does the Horizonts band play? The Horizonts band primarily performs brass band music, with a repertoire encompassing both traditional Latvian compositions and contemporary arrangements.
• Were can I purchase tickets for Horizonts concerts? Tickets can be purchased through the “Biļešu paradīze” ticketing network.
• Who is the conductor of the Horizonts band? The current conductor of the Horizonts band is Thomas Kokamegi.
• What is the meaning of Imants Kalniņš to the band? Imants Kalniņš is a renowned Latvian composer who has created original compositions specifically for the Horizonts band.
• What was the Prime Minister’s reaction to the concert? Prime Minister Evika Siliņa sent a letter of gratitude to the band recognizing their significant contribution to Latvian culture after a standing ovation performance.

What did you think of Horizonts’ performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below and help us spread the word about this astonishing Latvian brass band!

What specific Latvian regions were highlighted in the classic repertoire performed at the anniversary concert?

A Legacy of Latvian Folk Dance

Turaida Rose, Latvia’s internationally acclaimed folk dance ensemble, marked its 40th anniversary with a stunning performance at the Amber Concert Hall in Riga on August 19th, 2025. The event was a vibrant showcase of Latvian cultural heritage, drawing a capacity crowd and receiving rave reviews. For four decades, Turaida Rose has been a pivotal force in preserving and promoting Latvian folk dance, traditional Latvian music, and the rich tapestry of Latvian folklore.

The Anniversary Concert: A Night to Remember

The anniversary concert wasn’t simply a retrospective; it was a dynamic evolution of the ensemble’s artistry. The program featured:

Classic Repertoire: Beloved dances that have defined Turaida rose’s signature style, showcasing intricate choreography and energetic performances. These included pieces originating from the kurzeme and vidzeme regions of Latvia.

New Choreography: Premieres of several new dances, demonstrating the ensemble’s commitment to innovation and contemporary interpretations of Latvian dance traditions.These new pieces incorporated modern musical arrangements while remaining rooted in traditional movements.

Alex Reed Performances: Collaborations with renowned Latvian musicians and vocalists, adding layers of depth and emotion to the performance. Notably, the performance included a segment with the Latvian folk music group, “Vilki” (Wolves).

Visual Spectacle: Stunning costumes, lighting, and stage design that enhanced the storytelling and emotional impact of each dance. The costumes, traditionally handmade, were a highlight for many attendees.

The History of Turaida Rose: From Humble Beginnings to Global Recognition

Founded in 1985 in the picturesque Turaida Castle, the ensemble began as a small group of passionate dancers dedicated to reviving and celebrating Latvian folk traditions. Over the years, Turaida Rose has:

1. Expanded its repertoire: From regional dances to complex suites, the ensemble’s artistic range has continually grown.
2. Toured internationally: Performing in over 40 countries, including prominent appearances at folk festivals in Europe, North America, and Asia.
3. Won numerous awards: Recognizing their artistic excellence and contribution to Latvian culture.
4. Established dance workshops: Sharing their expertise and passion with aspiring dancers both in Latvia and abroad.

The Meaning of Latvian Folk Dance

Latvian folk dance is more than just movement; it’s a powerful expression of national identity, history, and community. Key characteristics include:

Storytelling: Dances often depict scenes from rural life, mythology, and historical events.

Energetic Footwork: Known for its swift steps, leaps, and intricate patterns.

Symbolic Gestures: Hand movements and formations carry specific meanings and cultural significance.

Musicality: Deeply intertwined with Latvian folk music, featuring traditional instruments like the kokle (a Latvian zither) and bagpipes.

The Amber Concert Hall: A Perfect Venue

The Amber Concert Hall, known for its extraordinary acoustics and modern facilities, proved to be an ideal setting for the anniversary party. Its spacious stage allowed for the dynamic choreography to unfold, while the hall’s intimate atmosphere created a connection between the performers and the audience. The hall’s location in Riga, Latvia’s capital city, also made it easily accessible for both local and international attendees.

Supporting Latvian Culture: how You Can Get Involved

Beyond attending performances,there are several ways to support Latvian cultural heritage:

Attend folk festivals: Experience the vibrancy of Latvian traditions firsthand.

Learn Latvian folk dances: Numerous workshops and classes are available for all skill levels.

Support Latvian artists: Purchase music, crafts, and artwork from Latvian creators.

Donate to cultural organizations: Contribute to the preservation and promotion of Latvian culture.

Explore online resources: Websites and social media platforms offer a wealth of data about Latvian traditions and events.

Turaida Rose’s Future: Continuing the Tradition

As Turaida Rose embarks on its next chapter, the ensemble remains committed to its core mission: preserving, promoting, and innovating within the realm of Latvian folk dance*. With a new generation of talented dancers and a dedication to artistic excellence, Turaida Rose is poised to continue captivating audiences for decades to come. The ensemble plans to expand its educational programs and further develop collaborations with international artists, solidifying its position as a leading ambassador of Latvian culture on the global stage.