LU konference
At dawn on October 28, “Aura” headed towards the famous golden autumn of Prague in the hope of bringing back to Latvia a little piece of gold. From October 29 to November 1, “Praga Cantat 2015” took place for the 29th time in the capital of the Czech Republic, with the participation of 21 choirs from 13 countries. Latvia was represented by “Aura”, who participated in two categories, performing four songs in each . Tension was heightened by the fact that both categories took place on the same day, making October 30 the most challenging day of the trip both physically and emotionally.
“Aura” performed four folk song arrangements in the folk category – the energetic “Stūru stūriem tēvu zeme” by Andris Sējāns, an unusual arrangement created by American composer Steven Sametz for the folk song “Kas tie tādi”, a long-time favourite by Selga Mence “Neba maize pati nāca” and the defiant “Ai, nama māmiņa” by Andrejs Jansons. In the mixed choirs category, “Aura” performed the obligatory song determined by the regulation of the competition – “Napadly pisne” by Antonín Dvořák, followed by patriotic and mighty song “Karaļmeita” by Jāzeps Vītols and Rainis, continuing with great and fascinating song by Selga Mence “Paslēpes ar tautasdziesmu” and finishing with “Gaismeņa ausa, sauleite lēce” by Valts Pūce. All songs in the competition were performed a capella, with only a few folk song arrangements requiring usage of traditional Latvian musical instruments. Choristers played the musical instruments by themselves, enthusiastically beating the devil’s drum, striking wands and clinking sleigh bells.
On October 30, having performed eight difficult and vigorous songs, they received some good news – “Aura” had reached the finals along with other six choirs. For the finals, they had to pick three songs – one that they already had performed and two new songs. There was only one night and a few waking hours left to prepare the songs to the highest standard possible, therefore “Aura” is really grateful to their vocal teacher Inga Lisovska and choir master Ilva Krauze. They both provided support and inspiration during the trip and especially through the intense moments just before the final performance.
The choir came out on the stage for the third time in the afternoon of October 30 to tell three wonderful stories through singing – a dreamy and fragile song “Vasaras vakars” by Jāzeps Mediņš, lyrics by Aspazija; an unexpectedly short and dynamic song “Mēnestiņš meloja” by Jāzeps Vītols, lyrics by Aspazija; and, once more,the bravely and sonorously performed “Ai, nama māmiņa” by Andrejs Jansons.
After the finals, “Aura” had a few hours free to enjoy the marvelous old Prague and the golden autumn entwined in the city. After that, the time had come to receive the deserved gold medal. “Aura” thanks those who supported their participation in the competition, kept their fingers crossed and wished them the best of luck!
