OPENING CONCERT

Symphonic jazz compositions created specially for the opening concert of Vilnius Spring Festival!

About Vilnius JJAZZ Ensemble

Vilnius JJAZZ Ensemble, a jazz orchestra that started its active concert activities in 2022 under the direction of composer Jievaras Jasinskis, has named as one of its main missions to bring Lithuanian jazz creators to the forefront in terms of both performance and creative aspects. In this way, the Ensemble aims to present the versatility of the jazz genre and to attract larger audiences of listeners.

The objective of Vilnius JJazz Ensemble is to encourage young and experienced jazz composers to create original compositions, thus expanding the hitherto not very numerous Lithuanian big band repertoire of compositions. Over the last years, a number of compositions have been created, which have been warmly welcomed in various concert halls and outdoor festivals.

According to the members of the Vilnius JJazz Ensemble, "cooperation with St. Christopher Chamber Orchestra is a unique opportunity to create an innovative symphonic/jazz sound through writing music for the big band and for the string orchestra. The sound of the string orchestra will not only enrich the scores of jazz works but also provide new colors and sonic possibilities for experiencing the sound of symphonic Jazz."

Vilnius JJazz Ensemble composers Jievaras Jasinskis, Karolis Šarkus, Simonas Šipavičius, Apolinaras Dubauskas, Gediminas Strupinskas, Domantas Razmus, Pranas Kentra have written music specially for this concert.

The concert is dedicated to the 20th anniversary of Lithuania's EU and NATO membership.

Performers:

Vilnius JJAZZ Ensemble

St. Christopher Chamber Orchestra; Artistic Director and Chief Conductor Modestas Barkauskas