Latvian jazz singer Līga Kupča has released her debut album, “Dziesmai šodien jauna diena,” alongside a music video for the track “Katra diena.” The project includes arrangements inspired by works of Latvian composers such as Emīļa Melngaiļa, Aldoņa Kalniņa, and Pēteris Barisona, with Kupča reinterpreting their pieces by blending familiar melodies with original compositions. “Man bija svarīgi šīs dziesmas neatstāt tikai kā atsauci uz pagātni. Gribēju saglabāt to atpazīstamību, bet ļaut sev no oriģināla arī atkāpties,” she explained, describing her approach to the album’s arrangements.
Her work has appeared in festivals like “Voicingers on Tour” and “Saulkrasti Jazz,” while the “Katra diena” music video employs an analog camera from the era of the original song’s creation, giving it a vintage aesthetic. The video’s production, directed by Ērika Radžeļa, emphasizes a “slightly time-worn” atmosphere to complement the track’s historical references.
Album Features References to Latvian Composers
The album “Dziesmai šodien jauna diena” incorporates pieces by multiple generations of Latvian composers, including Emīļa Melngaiļa’s “Senatni,” Aldoņa Kalniņa’s “Katru dienu,” and Jānis Ivanovs’ vocalise “Lietainā dienā.” Kupča’s interpretations vary, with some tracks retaining only a melodic fragment of the original while others expand into entirely new musical material. For instance, “Katra diena” features an arrangement for voice and piano, reflecting her early exposure to the song during music school choir performances.
Music Video Uses Vintage Aesthetic
The music video for “Katra diena” utilizes an analog film lens from the period when the original song was composed, creating a “slightly time-worn” visual style. This approach shows Kupča’s emphasis on preserving the essence of traditional works while allowing for personal artistic evolution.
Līga Kupča’s Academic and Performance Background
Kupča, who holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Music Academy, has performed at jazz festivals and musical productions. Her academic journey included studies in London, where she further developed her skills as a jazz vocalist. The album’s foundation traces back to her master’s work, which later expanded into a full-length project.
“Gribēju saglabāt to atpazīstamību, bet ļaut sev no oriģināla arī atkāpties,” Kupča said, encapsulating the album’s creative philosophy.
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