The Herman Braun Foundation’s annual “Winterfest” music festival offers Latvia visitors a unique experience to highlight the Christmas, New Year, and Orthodox Christmas seasons. Running from November to February, Winderfest is a Riga tradition you won’t want to miss this year. Don’t miss performances by the likes of pianist Charles Abramowitz or famed violinist Midori.
Riga Latvia in Winter - Courtesy © pavel kulenko - Fotolia.com
Many stars continue to grace the various venues slated for Winterfest this season. Chamber orchestras to the aforementioned soloists, Winterfest international winter music festival characterized by an eclectic an versatile repertoire of acts. Jazz, choir, mastros, cross over groups, the list of talents and genres is extensive.
Tango ensemble Sexteto Mayor - Courtesy Herman Braun Foundation
Winterfest started back in 1999 and has typically showcased chamber music, but more recently expanded into a truly international music event.
Russian pianist Alexander Melnikov February 4, 2012 - Courtesy Herman Braun Foundation
The original program celebrated St. Cecilia’s Day in November, Christmas in December, New Year and Orthodox Christmas in January, and the Hermanis Braun Foundation in February.
This year visitors can expect to experience performances by the Tokyo String Quartet, the Mariinsky Brass Ensemble of St Petersburg, Georgy Smirnov conducting the Russian Orthodox Male Choir at Riga Cathedral, and the season finale by Argentina’s Sexteto Mayor in February. Many of the concerts are free or priced very reasonably, so be sure and check out what’s on when you visit Riga.
For more information about this year’s festival please visit the links provided, or call +371 67 205444. Readers may also want to visit Visit Latvia as well.