In 2024, the Riga Chamber Choir "Ave Sol" and the Vidzeme Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Andris Veismanis, performed Johann Sebastian Bach's "St. John Passion" on Easter Monday, marking the 300th anniversary of its premiere. This year, the Easter concert continues the tradition by reviving another outstanding masterpiece of sacred music - Handel's "Messiah", which was premiered in the spring of 1742.

Spring is the time when most of nature wakes and gives new energy, and in this mood, Handel’s “Messiah” with its triumphant jubilation, dramatic tension and deep spirituality is a powerful musical adventure. This oratorio, which has retained its relevance throughout the centuries, reminds us of hope and light even in turbulent times.

Conductor Andris Veismanis, one of the most recognized interpreters of Baroque music in Latvia, has selected the most significant parts of the oratorio for this concert, creating a two-hour concert program. Under his leadership, both the choir and orchestral parts will sound majestic as well as solo aias -  vibrate in delicate trepidation, allowing the audience to enjoy the emotional and musical diversity of this masterpiece.

The concert will feature both prominent musicians and young talents. The soprano solo parts will be performed by Aija Veismane, who has been educated in the field of sacred music both in Latvia and abroad.  The tenor role will be performed by one of the most wonderful tenors of Latvia and chamber choir “Ave Sol”, Mārtiņš Zvīgulis.

Agneta Otaņķe, a student of the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music, will also make her debut at this concert, supported by the Latvian National Opera soloist, bass-baritone Rihards Mačanovskis. The participation of the new soloists in the concert continues the tradition in which the excellent musical heritage is brought to life by both experienced artists and young talents.

The concerts will be special not only for lovers of classical music, but also for anyone who wants to experience the inspiring power of Handel's music and excellent artistic performance in the clear acoustics of St. John's Church.

Admission to the concert is free

You can find out more about Easter events in the city on the website kultura.riga.lv, as well as follow the news on the social network "Facebook" pages "Rīga" and "Rīgā notiek".