Latvian Musicians Bukša, Bergs, and Šimkus to Perform Chamber Music Concert

On February 23rd at 6:00 PM, the 1st Studio of Latvian Radio will host a chamber music concert titled “Perts. Haydns. Šēnbergs.” The performance will feature three acclaimed Latvian musicians currently residing and working abroad: violinist Elīna Bukša, cellist Kristaps Bergs, and pianist Aurēlija Šimkus. The concert will be organized and broadcast live by Latvian Radio 3 “Klasika,” with Liene Jakovļeva hosting and interviewing the musicians. [Source: LSM.lv]

Program and Artistic Vision

The concert program, conceived by violinist Elīna Bukša, aims to create a cohesive musical narrative. Bukša noted the natural synergy within the trio, highlighting her close friendship with cellist Kristaps Bergs and the burgeoning musical connection with pianist Aurēlija Šimkus. [Source: Lente.lv] The program will feature works by Arvo Perts, Joseph Haydn, and Arnold Schoenberg, selected for their ability to tell a story and evoke a range of emotions.

Specifically, the program includes Arvo Perts’ Adagio, described as a message of gratitude to Mozart; Joseph Haydn’s D major trio, celebrated for its architectural brilliance and humor; and Arnold Schoenberg’s “Apskaidrotā nakts” (Enlightened Night), arranged for trio by the composer’s friend Edvards Šteiermans. [Source: LSM.lv]

Recognition and Achievements

Elīna Bukša and Aurēlija Šimkus received a nomination for the Great Music Award in the “Concert of the Year” category for their performance on November 2, 2024, at the Melngalvju House. [Source: Lente.lv] All three musicians have been nominated for the Great Music Award multiple times throughout their careers. Elīna Bukša previously won the award in 2012 for “Debut of the Year.”

Each artist has established a successful international career. Elīna Bukša plays a Domenico Montagnara violin made in 1723 and is a laureate of the Windsor International String Instrument Competition. Kristaps Bergs plays a Lorenzo Ventapane cello built in Naples in 1836 and has served as the principal cellist of the Brussels Philharmonic Orchestra. Aurēlija Šimkus won the German music award “Echo Klassik” in 2016 as the best young artist and studies at the Cologne University of Music and Dance. [Source: Lente.lv]

Latvian Radio 1 Studio as a Concert Venue

Latvian Radio 1 Studio is a prominent concert venue in Riga, regularly hosting chamber music events. Latvian Radio 3 “Klasika” concerts held in the studio offer diverse programs appealing to a wide range of musical tastes. [Source: Klasika.lsm.lv] These concerts are often broadcast live, extending their reach to a broader audience.