The Latvian National Guard Orchestra and U.S. Air Forces in Europe Band Concerts "Stronger Together"

From May 3 to 5, the United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) Band is visiting Latvia to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the NATO alliance and the 20th anniversary of Latvia’s full membership in the alliance, as well as to celebrate with the citizens of Latvia on the 34th anniversary of the Restoration Day of Latvian Independence by performing joint concerts with the Latvian National Guard Orchestra.
As part of the "Stronger Together" concert tour, the musicians of both orchestras will perform concerts free of charge in Rēzekne and Jēkabpils. Under the baton of two distinguished conductors, Major Andis Karelis and Captain Brian O’Donnell, audiences will embark on an extraordinary musical journey featuring classical standards and beloved hits from both American and Latvian stages.
On May 4 at 11:00, both ensembles will participate in the military parade in Rēzekne in honor of the 34th anniversary of the Restoration Day of Latvian Independence. Afterward, the orchestras will perform a concert at the concert hall “Gors” at 15:00.
On May 5 at 16:00, the orchestras are inviting to attend a concert at the Krustpils Culture Centre in Jēkabpils.
American composers Morten Lauridsen, George Gershwin, Louis Prima, and John Williams created internationally recognized compositions in the magnificent concert program. Latvian music will be represented at the concert by American Latvian composer Lolita Ritmanis, as well as new compositions created for the concert by musicians and composers of the Latvian National Guard Orchestra, Inga Meijere, and Arvīds Keinis. At the concert in Rēzekne, the great Latvian pianist Raimonds Petrauskis will also join the orchestras, playing a solo in George Gershwin's composition "Rhapsody in Blue", which marks exactly 100 years since its premiere in New York.
“This collaborative endeavor marks yet another milestone in the enduring friendship between the U.S. and Latvia. Through the universal language of music, these performances serve as a testament to the unbreakable bonds of the transatlantic alliance, promoting shared values of democracy, freedom, and peace. We will once again unite in celebration of the enduring friendship between our nations. Our seamless musical collaboration not only showcases our shared values but also underscores the collective strength of NATO Allies,” remarks Captain O’Donnell, the Associate Conductor of the U.S. Band.
“Together with the United States of America, we are shoulder to shoulder, not only strengthening our combat abilities on the range but also united in music. Music's ability to transcend language and cultural barriers highlights its universal power. Our collective performances are emotions, and emotions build relationships and strengthen unity between people. By demonstrating the rich cultural heritage and excellent performance of both orchestras, we demonstrate the power of music, which helps to overcome differences and strengthen partnership to achieve peace and prosperity in the world,” emphasizes the Chief Conductor of the Latvian National Armed Forces, Major Andis Karelis.

NATO was founded 75 years ago on April 4, 1949, and its 32 member states affirm their commitment to protecting each other and every inch of Allied territory, people, freedom, and democracy. Latvia joined this strongest military alliance together with Estonia and Lithuania 20 years ago.
In continuing the traditions of the Latvian National Armed Forces orchestras, and United States military bands, the concerts are free of charge.

Photo: Concert posters and publicity photographs of the United States Air Forces in Europe Band and the Latvian National Guard Orchestra.
U.S. Air Forces in Europe Band social media handles:
Facebook: @usafeband
Instagram: @usafe_band

Latvian National Guard Orchestra social media handles:
Facebook: @ZemessardzesOrkestris
Instagram: @zemessardzes_orkestris
YouTube: Zemessardzes orķestris

Information prepared by:
Inga Meijere
Public Relations Specialist
National Armed Forces
Headquarters of the National Guard (Zemessardze) of Latvia
Mob. phone: + 371 29299329
E-mail: inga.meijere@mil.lv