Initiative 'Dziedam Kopā' Attracts 2,500 Singers – A Free Movement Reviving Choral Music
In just a month and a half, the 'Dziedam Kopā' (Sing Together) initiative has gathered 2,500 participants, the equivalent of over 80 choirs. Conductor Artūrs Švarcbahs emphasizes that the movement stems from singers' own desire and strengthens Latvia's choral tradition.
The 'Dziedam Kopā' initiative has attracted 2,500 singers in a month and a half, matching the size of more than 80 choirs. The movement started when singers who currently do not belong to a choir or whose choirs cannot participate in the concert 'Manai Dzimtenei' approached organizers asking for an individual way to perform. Several conductors, including Artūrs Švarcbahs, joined to create an open platform accessible to anyone with singing experience.
The choir's repertoire features Maestro Raimonds Pauls' most beloved melodies and choral pieces. Švarcbahs notes that working with such a motivated group is inspiring – no member is negative, and everyone sings with full dedication. Many have previous choral experience, but some were never accepted into a choir before or had hesitated for years. 'Dziedam Kopā' welcomes everyone.
Participants learn the repertoire independently using voice recordings on the website and refine their skills during Saturday morning rehearsals. The conductor highlights that singers are very well-prepared, allowing immediate focus on artistic details. People of all ages have joined, and many plan to continue with a regular choir after this experience.
Švarcbahs points out that this movement underscores the importance of communal singing for Latvians – it unites people regardless of age, profession, or political views. He believes 'Dziedam Kopā' not only brings joy but also strengthens Latvia's choral culture in the long term.
