The Boston Symphony Orchestra and Andris Nelsons

The Andrejs Žagars Cultural Development Foundation proudly presents – with their first concerts in Riga – the world-renowned Boston Symphony Orchestra under the leadership of chief conductor and artistic leader Andris Nelsons, this May 11 and 12 at the Latvian National Opera. The concerts will be part of the BSO’s 11-concert European tour, organised by Konzertdirektion Schmid, honoring Dmitri Shostakovich’s work in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the great composer’s death.

The concert programme:
• May 11: Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 6, Op. 54 and Symphony No. 8, Op. 65
• May 12: Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 15, Op. 141 and Violin Concerto No. 1, Op. 99 (performed by the exceptional Latvian violinist Baiba Skride)

The concerts are a remarkable occurrence in Latvian cultural life as conductor Andris Nelsons returns to his homeland with one of the world’s best orchestras to bring an unforgettable musical experience to Riga’s listeners.

“I am especially proud to introduce Latvian listeners to the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s excellent work,” Andris Nelsons emphasises. “Riga will always be my special place because this is where my daughter goes to school, where my parents live, and I began my musical journey here.”

The concerts are organised by the Andrejs Žagars Cultural Development Foundation, continuing the mission of previous Latvian National Opera director Andrejs Žagars – to uplift Latvian talent in the global arena and ensure world-class cultural events here in Latvia.

“Both for Andrejs and the foundation it was always important to not only guide Latvian artists towards world stages, but also to ensure the highest class art events in Latvia,” emphasises the foundation’s artistic director Artūrs Maskats. “I believe that Andrejs would be incredibly proud of this event. He was always excited about Latvians who represented our homeland in the world, and did everything to help them stand out on the world’s stages.”

Celebrated for its diverse programs, passionate performances, and tradition of innovation, the BSO is one of the world’s most accomplished and versatile ensembles, attracting world-renowned guest artists and players, composers, and conductors. Today, the BSO reaches millions of listeners through not only its concert performances in Boston and at Tanglewood, but also via educational and community programs, radio, television, recordings, and tours.

The concerts are realised in thanks to the support of Rietumu Banka and “Compensa Vienna Insurance Group” ADB Latvia branch, Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Latvia and Riga City Council, “Latvijas Gāze” AS and Zuzeum Art Centre.

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