RSU mixed choir "Rīga" and RSU student folk dance group "Ačkups" demonstrate excellence

On 3 June Rīga Stradiņš University mixed choir “Riga” under the guidance of its conductors Evita Taranda and Zane Zilberte participated in the choral singing semi-finals for XXVI Latvian Nationwide Song and XI Dance Celebration, winning the opportunity to participate in the finals of the choral competition, the so-called Battle of the Choirs. RSU student folk dance group "Ačkups” was recognised as the 3rd best folk dance group in its category. 

In the semi-finals RSU mixed choir Riga performed three compositions: the mandatory part – Pa zvaigžņu ceļu – a song composed by Pēteris Barisons, with lyrics by Vilis Plūdonis, a song chosen by drawing lots – Latvian folksong Ūdens sauca, akmens vilka, arranged by Juris Karlsons and a freely chosen song – Sākumā bija vārds, a composition by Pēteris Butāns with lyrics by Sergejs Moreino. The choir performance was awarded with 46.19 points and the highest level award.

The choral singing competition already commenced in spring, with only the best choirs qualifying for the finals. In all 57 choirs – winners of the regional competitions ­– were invited to compete in the semi-finals. The performances were assessed by conductors Māris Sirmais, Jānis Ērenštreits, Sigvards Kļava, Andris Veismanis and composer Rihards Dubra, resulting in 34 choirs – 20 mixed choirs, 6 male and 8 female choirs being given the opportunity to demonstrate their singing excellence at the grand final which will be held on 30 June in the Great Hall of the University of Latvia.

By participating and demonstrating dancing proficiency in folk dance competitions held throughout the year, RSU student folk dance group "Ačkups” had qualified for the folk dance group competition that was held on 3 June in Dailes Theatre. 11 folk dance groups competed in the A level competition. Their performances were evaluated by an international jury, consisting of dance professionals from neighbouring countries, Russia, Ukraine and Finland. RSU student folk dance group "Ačkups” won third place. "We are happy about the high assessment of our work. Ačkups has been working hard not only for the main dance event this summer – the National Song and Dance Festival – but also for the Baltic Student Song and Dance Festival Gaudeamus that will be held in Tartu, Estonia on 22– 24 June.