According to composer Raimonds Pauls in June 2026, Latvian jazz pianist, composer, and arranger Matīss Žilinskis is recognized as one of the leading young pianists in the country. Žilinskis represents a four-generation musical lineage descending from composer Arvīds Žilinskis, establishing his professional career during the pandemic in 2020 while completing his studies at the Music Academy.
Professional Rise and Musical Milestones
The professional trajectory of Matīss Žilinskis advanced significantly following his entry into the Music Academy in 2020, where he met composer Raimonds Pauls. According to Žilinskis, that initial meeting sparked an ongoing professional relationship that has included multiple collaborations alongside his academy graduation and widespread concert performances.
During his time at the academy, Žilinskis split his schedule between domestic performances on major Latvian stages, studies in America, and studio work. According to the musician, he has recorded his debut jazz album and produced a substantial body of unreleased compositions. “Smejos, ka parasti Latvijas lielākie mākslinieki izpilda manas kompozīcijas,” Žilinskis stated regarding his extensive catalog.
Did you know? Matīss Žilinskis carries forward a four-generation musical family tradition that originates with his famous ancestor, composer Arvīds Žilinskis.
Mentorship from Maestro Raimonds Pauls
Composed of multiple public appearances and shared artistic milestones, the relationship between Žilinskis and Raimonds Pauls has remained steady since their first introduction six years prior. According to Pauls, speaking in June 2026, “Viņš ir viens no vadošajiem jaunajiem pianistiem. Dievs dod viņam panākumus.”
Beyond his collaborative performances, Žilinskis maintains a personal connection to his family history through his grandmother, who sat beside him at the piano during his early childhood. According to the pianist, his grandmother actively follows his career by purchasing three copies of any magazine featuring his image—retaining one for herself, giving one to Žilinskis, and sending the third to her sister.
Future Artistic Goals and Expanded Compositions
Looking ahead at his career direction, Žilinskis plans to shift his professional focus toward independent creative output. According to the composer, his current output centers primarily on song cycles and miniatures, but he intends to tackle larger musical forms in upcoming projects.
“Man noteikti mērķis būtu – vairāk laika veltīt savai daiļradei un mazāk citai,” Žilinskis noted, emphasizing his ambition to dedicate more time to original compositions and reduce outside commitments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Matīss Žilinskis?
Matīss Žilinskis is a Latvian musician, jazz pianist, composer, and arranger who stems from a four-generation musical family tree tracing back to composer Arvīds Žilinskis.
What did Raimonds Pauls say about Matīss Žilinskis?
In June 2026, composer Raimonds Pauls described Žilinskis as one of the leading young pianists and wished him success in his ongoing career.
What are Matīss Žilinskis’s upcoming musical plans?
según the artist, his future goals include dedicating more time to his own creative output and moving beyond song cycles and miniatures to compose larger musical forms.
Where did Matīss Žilinskis study?
Žilinskis completed his studies at the Music Academy and also undertook periods of study in America.
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