BRIDGES TO THE NORTH Concert dedicated to the 25th Anniversary of the Honorary Consulate of Norway in Kaunas

Performers:
KAUNAS STATE CHOIR
Artistic Director and Principal Conductor Robertas Šervenikas
Soloists:
JURGITA MIKALAUSKIENĖ (soprano)
ILJA PLOTNIKOV (baritone)
PETRO BONDAR (piano)
Conductor MINDAUGAS RADZEVIČIUS

Programme:
MIKALOJUS KONSTANTINAS ČIURLIONIS:
“Kyrie”, VL 19
“Sanctus”, VL 18
“De Profundis”, VL 8
“You, O Lord” („Juk Tu, Viešpatie“), VL 9
MIKALOJUS KONSTANTINAS ČIURLIONIS – VACLOVAS AUGUSTINAS:
“Little Song – On the Other Side of the Danube” („Dainų dainelė – Anoj pusėj Dunojėlio“)
MIKALOJUS KONSTANTINAS ČIURLIONIS:
“Oh, It Flies, It Flies” („Oi lekia, lekia“), VL 55a
EDVARD GRIEG:
“Arietta” No. 1 from “Lyric Pieces”, Op. 12
“Norwegian Melody” No. 6 from “Lyric Pieces”, Op. 12
“Åse’s Death” from Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46 (arr. Erik Hellerstedt)
“How Fair Thou Art” No. 1 from “Four Psalms”, Op. 74
“In the Mountains” No. 1 from “Scenes from Country Life”, Op. 19
“Land Sighting”, Op. 31
“Ave maris stella”, EG 150

Symbolically, the music resonating this evening at the Kaunas State Philharmonic is dedicated to the anniversary of the Royal Norwegian Honorary Consulate in Kaunas. With this concert, we mark a quarter-century of enduring friendship. 

 For 25 years, the Honorary Consulate of Norway in Kaunas has served as a vibrant and meaningful bridge between Lithuania and Norway—two nations united by shared values of freedom, democracy, and respect for human dignity. Over a quarter of a century, the Consulate has become not only an official representation of Norway, but also a symbol of sincere friendship, cooperation, and mutual trust.

Operating in Kaunas—a city historically open to Europe and the wider world—the Consulate has made a significant contribution to the development of cultural exchange. exhibitions, concerts, literary presentations, and joint artistic projects have brought creators and communities closer together, creating opportunities to experience Norwegian culture in Lithuania and to present Lithuanian creativity in Norway. Culture has become a universal language, strengthening dialogue and deepening mutual understanding between our nations.

In the field of education, the Consulate’s initiatives and partnerships have fostered connections between schools, universities, and academic communities. Student exchanges, joint projects, and research cooperation have encouraged the younger generation to think broadly, build international networks, and look confidently toward the future. These initiatives have nurtured not only knowledge, but also openness to the world.

In business, the Consulate has become a trusted partner promoting cooperation between Lithuanian and Norwegian companies. Investments, joint ventures, and business missions have strengthened economic ties, created new jobs, and contributed to sustainable development. Entrepreneurs from both countries have been united by trust, transparency, and long-term partnership.  There are over 50 Norwegian companies operating in Kaunas County.

Over the past 25 years, the Honorary Consulate of Norway in Kaunas has become more than a consular institution—it has become a home of connection, where ideas, experiences, and people meet. It is a place where friendship between nations is cultivated, grounded in respect, solidarity, and a shared commitment to building an open, creative, and strong Europe.

 This anniversary is not only a meaningful reflection on the past, but also an inspiration for the future. May the ties between Lithuania and Norway continue to grow stronger and may the Consulate in Kaunas remain a bridge connecting people, cultures, and ideas.

 Concert is a part of the Nordic Days in Kaunas program