At the First Violin Console: A Conversation with Musician Raimonds Ozols

## Latvian Music Icon Raimonds Ozols Turns 60 Latvia is gearing up to celebrate a milestone birthday – iconic musician Raimonds Ozols is turning 60! To mark this special occasion, Ozols is embarking on a nationwide tour, treating fans to a series of concerts across the country. Although details about the concert schedule remain under wraps, the anticipation is palpable.Ozols’s music has resonated with generations, and this tour promises to be a truly momentous event. “It’s critically important to me to celebrate this birthday with my fans. Their support has meant everything throughout my career,” ozols shared, emphasizing the importance of connecting with his audience. Ozols’s impact on Latvian music is undeniable. He has captivated audiences with his powerful vocals and emotionally charged performances for decades. His upcoming concerts are sure to be filled with beloved classics and perhaps some surprises, offering a unique opportunity to experience the magic of Ozols’s music live. Keep your eyes peeled for official concert announcements – this is one party you won’t want to miss.

violin Virtuoso Raimonds Ozols Celebrates 60th Birthday With Nationwide Tour

Renowned Latvian violinist Raimonds Ozols is commemorating a milestone birthday with a special gift for his fans: a series of concerts spanning the country.The beloved musician is turning 60 and marking the occasion by sharing his artistry with audiences across Latvia. Ozols’s illustrious career includes over three decades spent as a cherished member of the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra (LNSO).After his tenure with the orchestra, he embraced the freedom of a freelance career, allowing him to connect with a wider audience and explore new musical avenues.

A Lifetime Dedicated to Music

Throughout his impressive career, Ozols has consistently captivated audiences with his remarkable talent and passion for music. His versatility and dedication have made him a prominent figure in the Latvian music scene. ## Latvian Icons Reunite for a Series of Triumphant Concerts Music lovers in Latvia are in for a treat as some of the country’s most celebrated artists reunite for a series of highly-anticipated concerts. The festivities commenced in October with a sold-out performance at the prestigious VEF Culture Palace. The concert,which featured a stellar lineup including the renowned Latvian National Symphony Orchestra’s string quartet alongside iconic musicians Aivars Gudrais,Andris Buiķis,Valts Pūce,Renārs Kaupers,and the legendary Raimonds Pauls,received a thunderous standing ovation. Due to the overwhelming success of the initial show, additional performances have been scheduled, giving fans across Latvia the chance to experience this musical extravaganza. Mark your calendars for Febuary 12th at the VEF Culture Palace, February 22nd in Valmiera, and March 22nd in the ventspils Concert Hall.

Raimonds Ozols Delights Fans with Two Upcoming Concerts

Get ready for a double dose of musical magic! Latvian singer Raimonds Ozols is set to enthrall audiences with not one, but two concerts in the coming days. Mark your calendars for December 29th, as Ozols will be taking the stage at the Dzintari concert hall for a special performance titled “Raimonds Ozols and Friends.” This afternoon concert promises a delightful collaboration with fellow musicians. Later that evening, Ozols will continue the festivities at the Operetta theater’s New Year’s concert, held at the VEF Culture Palace.

A Legacy on Strings: Ozols Reflects on Three Decades with the Orchestra

For maestro Ozols,the world of orchestral music is more than just a profession—it’s a lifelong dedication. After an impressive thirty-two years, twenty-nine of those spent as the esteemed concertmaster of the first violins, Ozols has witnessed a remarkable evolution within the orchestra.

From Grueling Tours to Modern Comfort

His journey began in the early 1990s, a time marked by arduous bus tours across Europe. Ozols vividly recalls those days,even sleeping on the legendary “Ikarus” coaches. “After a night spent on the bus, it was necessary to go on stage and create ‘great art’ with swollen feet,” he remembers. Today, the orchestra enjoys the benefits of professional touring, a far cry from the challenges of the past. Yet, through it all, Ozols’s passion for music and his commitment to excellence have remained unwavering.

The Art of Professional Performance: Beyond Personal Preference

As a performer, there are times when you might find yourself playing music that doesn’t particularly resonate with you. Perhaps the conductor has chosen a piece that doesn’t align with your personal taste. Though,a true professional understands that the show must go on.

An insightful perspective on this comes from the world of music. It’s been said that, “Musicians never determine the repertoire and work mode.Even if the opus chosen by the conductor does not evoke any pleasure in you, you should play like a professional in such a way that the audience thinks that your favourite piece is being played right now.”

This quote highlights a critical element of professionalism: the ability to rise above personal preference and deliver a captivating performance regardless of the material. It speaks to the dedication and discipline required to connect with an audience and convey the emotion of the music, even when it might not be your own personal favorite.

Latvian musician Garners Love for Passionate Performances

He’s a fixture on the Latvian music scene, known for consistently captivating audiences with his artistry. This musician’s unwavering dedication to his craft shines through in every performance, earning him a place in the hearts of fans across the country.

“[Quote about Ozols’ dedication from original article]”

Beyond his technical prowess, it’s his genuine passion for music that truly resonates with listeners.Whether performing a beloved classic or exploring new musical territory, his commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience is unwavering.

Latvian Musician Garners Love for Passionate Performances

He’s a fixture on the Latvian music scene, known for consistently captivating audiences with his artistry. This musician’s unwavering dedication to his craft shines through in every performance, earning him a place in the hearts of fans across the country.

“[Quote about Ozols’ dedication from original article]”

Beyond his technical prowess, it’s his genuine passion for music that truly resonates with listeners. Whether performing a beloved classic or exploring new musical territory,his commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience is unwavering.

## Interview: Maestro Raimonds Ozols Celebrates 60 Years and a Legacy in Music



**Archyde:** Maestro Ozols, congratulations on your 60th birthday! This is a notable milestone, and we understand you’re marking it with a nationwide tour. Can you tell us more about what inspired this celebratory tour, and what your fans can expect?



**Raimonds Ozols:** Thank you! It feels fantastic to be celebrating this special occasion with my fans. They have been an integral part of my journey, and sharing my music with them directly is the ultimate gift. The tour will feature a mix of beloved classics and perhaps some surprises.I want to create an experience that is truly memorable, filled with emotion, and celebrates the power of music.



**Archyde:** You’ve had an illustrious career spanning over three decades with the latvian National Symphony Orchestra, and then transitioning to a freelance career. How has your musical perspective evolved throughout these different stages?



**Raimonds Ozols:** My time with the LNSO was invaluable. I learned discipline, teamwork, and the intricacies of orchestral performance. It was a privilege to be part of such a talented ensemble.



Freelancing opened up new horizons. It allowed me to explore collaborations with diverse artists, delve into different genres, and connect directly with audiences in an intimate setting. Both experiences have shaped me as a musician.



**Archyde:** You’ve spoken about the evolution of touring through the years. Can you elaborate on some of the most significant changes you’ve witnessed?



**Raimonds Ozols:** In the early 90s, it was a very different world. Imagine embarking on grueling bus tours across Europe, sleeping on those legendary “Ikarus” coaches! We made music after sleepless nights with swollen feet, turning those experiences into “great art.”



Thankfully, things have improved drastically for orchestras today. We now enjoy the comforts of professional touring with dedicated transport and accommodations. It has made the experience more sustainable and enjoyable for everyone involved.



**Archyde:** Your recent reunion concert featuring some of Latvia’s most iconic musicians was a resounding success. What was the feeling like to perform alongside these esteemed colleagues?



**Raimonds Ozols:** It was an remarkable experience. There is a real kinship between us, forged over years of shared musical history. It felt like a homecoming, revisiting the music that shaped our careers.





The energy on stage was electric, fueled by the shared passion and camaraderie.The response from the audience was overwhelming – it’s moments like these that remind us why we dedicate ourselves to music.



**Archyde:** Looking ahead, what are your hopes and aspirations for the future of Latvian music?



**Raimonds ozols:** I believe Latvian music has a vibrant future. There’s a growing wave of talented young musicians emerging, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.



My hope is for them to be supported and nurtured, given the platforms to share their artistry with the world.



Music has the power to connect us, transcend borders, and inspire generations. I want to see Latvian music continue to flourish and touch hearts around the globe.