Aizpute Chamber Music Threatens Liepāja's Cultural Monopoly: Local Musicians Learn to Flee from Baroque Like from a Storm

While Riga's cultural workers are still trying to understand what chamber music is, Aizpute is already preparing for an Easter concert that threatens Liepāja's cultural hegemony in South Kurzeme. The program will feature works by Bach, Vasks and other composers that, according to organizers, will "intertwine with each other like ornaments." In Liepāja, they'd spend at least a month looking for such ornaments.

The concert will feature cellist Kristaps Bergs, who is interested in philosophy and psychology. "That explains why he plays cello instead of guitar," comments local music expert Gunārs. "We also have philosophers here in Liepāja - those who think Lake Liepāja is quieter than the sea, but then realize that both sounds are equally unpredictable."

Harpsichordist Ieva Saliete, who has recently gained attention with her "original approach to ancient music," proves that old things can be made interesting. "Just like our old trams - they're old, but still running," notes a cultural worker philosophically.

Critics particularly highlight Saliete's ability to "combine a contemporary view with the aesthetics of historical music." In Liepāja, such combining is called "renovation work at Jūrmala Park stage" - old foundation, but new ideas about how to use it.

Event organizers encourage attending the concert, promising that the musical pieces will balance "between fantasy, tradition and innovation." In Liepāja, such balance is called "walking down Grobiņa Street in a storm" - you never know which direction will carry you away.