Good afternoon, dear young people and teachers! Good afternoon, musicians and collectives’ leaders! Good afternoon to all who may have found themselves here by chance, whether crossing the park on your daily route or simply out for a stroll.
We have all arrived at a special place. Some of us have come here intentionally, others by coincidence. We are gathered at the very site where the First All-Latvian Song Festival once took place – a place where song lives on every day. Even in the children’s playground. A place where we welcome choirs, dance groups, ensembles, and orchestras. We welcome you from all over Latvia. Here begins the exciting journey of the Latvian School Youth Song and Dance Festival. We are all here in a place of significance, because it is here that our traditions are upheld and developed. Here, our folk songs, our dances, and our heart unity are strengthened, for they belong to the future.
Thank you all for being here – children and parents, pupils and teachers, chief conductors and artistic directors. Without all of your dedication, without your hard work and perseverance, this festival would not exist – nor would our culture, nor our Latvia.
Dear children and young people!
You are proof that our younger generations sing, dance, and love Latvia – with all their hearts. You are proof that our culture continues to shine.
You are the very heart and foundation of this festival. Without your passion and perseverance, we would stand here alone today. I wish for you all to be truly heard – not only your songs and dance steps, but also your joy and excitement, your tiredness and your pride. All of this belongs to the festival. And what you say is also a part of the festival.
May your health and safety matter more than the perfect dance step or a flawlessly sung high note. May the sparkle in your eyes be more important than competition. May your teacher’s gentle reprimand for minor mischief last only until the next rehearsal. But may the new friendships you make during these days last a long time.
Sing with pride! Dance with confidence! Make music with joy!
May this festival be a source of strength and inspiration for us all!
God bless Latvia!
