The Small Guild Garden on Amatu Street is set to host the return of a significant cultural tradition as the “Jazz in Old Riga” concert series marks its twentieth anniversary. Starting June 4, the weekly event will offer a diverse program of live jazz performances, continuing every Thursday throughout the summer until August 27.
A Legacy of Summer Jazz
The milestone season begins with a performance by “Silvesteri Orkesteri,” an ensemble that played a foundational role in the project’s inception two decades ago. The opening night features an ensemble including Renars Lācis, Kārlis Vanags, Toms Poikšs, Davids Vanags and Anna Vibe Gorkusha.
Following the anniversary kickoff, the program transitions to educational and collaborative showcases. Ensembles from the CITY JAZZ RIGA jazz school, led by Kārlis Vanags, are scheduled to perform on June 11, 18, and 25. These performances highlight the school’s commitment to bridging the gap between students and seasoned professionals, a dynamic that has become a regular feature of the Small Guild Garden stage.
Diverse Musical Landscapes
July shifts the focus to the “Jam Orchestra,” with weekly performances scheduled throughout the month. Under the direction of composer and Music Academy teacher Andrei Evsyukov, the group intends to explore the intersection of jazz, rock, and blues. The ensemble lineup for these dates includes Peteris Liepins, Gundars Lintins, Zintis Zvarcs, Roman Vendinsh, and Artyom Sarvi.
The season concludes in August with a residency by a quartet led by Toms Rudzinskis. Known for his work as a graduate of the Amsterdam Conservatory, Rudzinskis is expected to present a rotating program that spans classical jazz and modern electronic-influenced compositions. Because each August performance will feature a unique lineup and musical selection, attendees may find that each week offers a distinct auditory experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where do the concerts take place?
The concerts are held at the Small Guild Garden on Amatu Street. Performances occur every Thursday from June 4 to August 27, starting at 17:00.
Is there an admission fee for the performances?
No, admission to the “Jazz in Old Riga” concert series is free.
What can audiences expect from the August performances?
The August concerts feature a quartet led by Toms Rudzinskis. Each of these performances will vary in both the lineup of musicians and the musical program, covering genres ranging from classical jazz to modern compositions that incorporate electronic instruments.
Which of these scheduled performances are you most interested in attending this summer?
