The Relentless Groove of Zintis Zintis: A Master of the Saxophone
This year, Latvian saxophonist Zintis Zintis celebrates a notable milestone – his 55th birthday. While affectionately known as “The Bypass” in his popular band, “Strawberries,” Zintis’ musical talent transcends genre and fame. “I don’t have the character to want to be very praised,” he admits, revealing the humility that fuels his passion for music.
Zintis’ musical journey began in a quaint village nestled between Gulbene and Aluksne. His father, a folk musician, instilled in him a deep love for music, gifting him an accordion. The melodies sung by his grandmother and the sight of Vili Berzins, a local music teacher who performed with a brass band in Riga, profoundly impacted his aspirations. Zintis recalls, “In the summer, he arrived with his clarinet every now and then, dressed in a white jacket, even amongst tractorists. Man from another world – I thought, and that’s why I wanted to play that clarinet so much.”
Though he initially learned the clarinet, Zintis’ heart ultimately found its home with the saxophone.”Though, in the older courses, however, I started playing the saxophone in parallel, there was Diksiland, and we performed at events outside Latvia. There was also Cesis Big Band, Murovey was working,” he shares, highlighting the pivotal role these experiences played in shaping his musical direction.
Zintis’ virtuosity extends across the saxophone family, showcasing his mastery of various instruments. He seamlessly navigates the rich tonal landscapes, captivating audiences with his expressive performances.
The Life and Music of Latvian Saxophonist Žvart
Žvart, a celebrated Latvian saxophonist, has made an indelible mark on his nation’s musical landscape. His saxophone voice, both versatile and soulful, has resonated in intimate jazz clubs and grand concert halls alike, captivating audiences with its expressive range.
Žvart’s love for the saxophone ignited his musical journey. He honed his craft alongside renowned Latvian artists like Uldis Marhilevi
, nikolay Matveev, and Kristaps Krievkalns. These collaborations sparked a vibrant synergy, enriching each musician’s artistry and leaving a lasting impact on Latvia’s music scene.
Early in his career, Žvart found himself performing on the streets, gaining invaluable experience. “It is indeed not easy to play psychologically on the street,” he reflects, “but as soon as you feel the support of people, you see a smile, it promptly becomes easier. but I will never feel the way I play. Has been done and forgotten,”
Beyond performance, Žvart is a dedicated pedagogue, nurturing the next generation of saxophonists. He shares his knowledge and enthusiasm at schools in Cesis and Riga, leading ensembles and ensuring the enduring legacy of music.
Žvart’s musical journey has taken him across diverse stages.he’s a regular performer with the dance and party ensemble “Residents,” adding a touch of swing and rhythm to ballroom dance evenings. He’s also graced the stage at the National Theater, performing with the band “Big Al & The Jackers” in the popular production “The Great Gatsby.” His upcoming collaboration with Kaspar Bindeman promises exciting musical exploration.
“The saxophone, people like it as thay can be very different: pulling the roof, playing terribly aggressively, just like something very romantic, gentle!” Žvart explains, highlighting the instrument’s expressive possibilities.
February, dedicated to celebrating the saxophone, brings opportunities to immerse oneself in the instrument’s magic. The Saxophone Music festival in Ventspils showcases Latvian and international talent, while the Saxophonia Festival in Riga offers another chance to experience the rich world of saxophone music.
The Relentless Groove of Zintis Zintis: A Master of the Saxophone
This year,renowned Latvian saxophonist Zintis Zintis celebrates a significant milestone: his 55th birthday. Better known as “The Bypass” within Latvia’s popular band “Strawberries,” Zintis is a musician whose talent transcends genres and accolades. “I don’t have the character to want to be very praised,” he admits, revealing the humility that fuels his passion for music. In this rare interview, we delve into the world of this masterful musician, exploring his journey, influences, and enduring love for the saxophone.
From Folk Melodies to the Cassophone’s Call
Zintis’ musical journey began in a small village nestled between Gulbene and Aluksne. His father, a folk musician, instilled a deep love for music, gifting Zintis an accordion. The melodies his grandmother sang and the sight of Vili Berzins, a local music teacher who performed with a brass band in Riga, profoundly impacted his aspirations. “In the summer, he would arrive with his clarinet every now and then, dressed in a white jacket, even amongst tractorists,” Zintis recalls. “A man from another world – I thought, and that is why I wanted to play that clarinet so much.”
Finding Home with the Saxophone
while Zintis initially learned the clarinet, his heart ultimately found its home with the saxophone. “Though, in the oldest courses, however, I started playing the saxophone in parallel,” he shares, highlighting the pivotal role experiences like performing with Diksiland and at events outside Latvia played in shaping his musical direction. He also mentions the Cesis Big Band and his interactions with Murovey. zintis delves into the unique charm of different saxophones: “there is even a more detailed division – soprano, bass, and double bass saxophones, exclusive and very expensive tools.These four are the instruments with great sound capabilities, combined in the saxophone quartet, which are more than one in Latvia,” he notes, emphasizing the diverse expressive possibilities this instrument offers.
what advice would you give to aspiring musicians looking to find their own voice like you have?
“……….”
A Tapestry of Sound: collaborations and Influences
Zintis’s musical journey is a vibrant tapestry woven from collaborations and inspirations. He’s shared stages and studios with celebrated Latvian musicians like Raimonds Pauliško, immersing himself in the rich musical heritage of his homeland. He draws inspiration from the compositions of masters like raimonds Pauls and Ivars Birkāns, and his love for popular music led him to collaborate with Kaspar Bindeman.
Zintis cherishes his memories of working with two of his hometown bands, Rebel and Murovey, both hailing from Cesis.He reflects, “It is a pity that Rebel has now been forgotten in which I was involved in Alexander Sircov, or Murovey, because we were both from Cesis. pleased to obey your powerful saxophone solo,” a poignant reminder of the ephemeral nature of fame and the enduring impact of musical connections.
A Legacy in Music: Seasons, Autumn and Beyond
zintis’s solo album, “seasons. Autumn,” stands as a testament to his artistry and mastery. This introspective journey through musical landscapes is both deeply personal and universally resonant. More than just a collection of songs, “seasons. Autumn” represents years of dedication, showcasing the breadth and depth of his talent and inviting listeners on an intimate musical exploration.
Looking Forward: the Enduring Allure of the Saxophone
With a career spanning decades, Zintis continues to inspire musicians both on stage and in the classroom, where he mentors the next generation.What wisdom would he offer to aspiring musicians seeking to find their own unique voice?
