Latvian Radio Big Band, Lupa and Paula Saija to Headline Contemporary Jazz Concert

Riga will host a celebration of contemporary Latvian jazz on March 6, 2026, at the Riga Congress Hall, featuring the Latvian Radio Big Band, the jazz ensemble “LUPA,” and vocalist Paula Saija.

A Two-Part Exploration of Latvian Jazz

The concert will be divided into two parts. The first half will premiere “The Seventh Sense,” a new collection of works by Kārlis Vanags, the Latvian Radio Big Band’s musical director, composer, arranger, and saxophonist. Inspired by intuition and the human mind, the program explores the power of inner voice and subconscious guidance. A recording of “The Seventh Sense” will be released by Jersika Records and available for purchase before and after the performance.

LUPA and Paula Saija to Join the Big Band

Following the intermission, the Latvian Radio Big Band will collaborate with the modern jazz fusion group “LUPA.” The performance will include new compositions by Ritvars Garoza, “LUPA’s” keyboardist, as well as big band arrangements of the group’s existing repertoire. Vocalist Paula Saija will join them as a special guest.

About the Artists

“LUPA,” founded in 2016, comprises Dāvis Jurka (alto saxophone and effects), Ritvars Garoza (synthesizers and “Fender Rhodes”), Valters Sprūdžs (bass guitar), and Andris Buiķis (drums and “Tempest” drum machine). The group is known for its instrumental, electronic, and analog “modern fusion” sound.

Event Details

• Date: March 6, 2026
• Time: 7:00 PM
• Location: Riga Congress Hall
• Performers: Latvian Radio Big Band, jazz ensemble “LUPA,” Kārlis Vanags, Paula Saija

Organizers anticipate the concert will be a highlight of the spring jazz season, showcasing a modern sound and creative collaboration between two distinct musical worlds. Latvian Radio Bigband and Latvijas Koncerti provide further information about the event.