New private music school opens in Riga with backing of Scottish experience

A new private music education centre, the Riga Private Music School, has opened in Riga, founded by Linda and Paul Boyd, who built their careers in music education in Scotland. Paul Boyd opened his first private music school in Edinburgh at age 18, while still studying music, and over more than 25 years it grew into an institution with over 1,200 students.

The founders' family ties to Latvia, along with the country's strong musical and cultural traditions, motivated them to launch the new school here. They emphasise that the teaching approach is adapted to each individual student rather than the other way around, taking into account a person's age, experience, life rhythm and goals.

What the school offers

Students can study vocal arts as well as play instruments including piano, guitar, bass guitar, drums, violin, flute, saxophone and others. Programmes are tailored both for beginners wanting to learn the basics and for those pursuing music as a professional path, including preparation for internationally recognised music exams.

Investment and plans

About 100,000 euros have been invested in the school so far, covering the fit-out of teaching space in central Riga and the purchase of professional instruments and equipment. In its first year of operation, the school plans to gradually expand its teaching staff, aiming to employ up to 40 music teachers.

Economy Minister Viktors Valainis praised the initiative as an example of experience gained abroad being turned into sustainable business in Latvia, noting its expected contribution to Riga's economy and the growth of the creative industries. Gordon Latimer, chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce in Latvia, also commended the founders' decision to develop their new venture in Latvia. The school plans to enrol students year-round.