One of the most important goals of the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra (LNSO) is to help foster a society engaged with culture and music. Experiences gained in childhood play a vital role in a person’s development, while adolescence is a period in which personal identity and self-awareness become increasingly nuanced and pronounced. To make a positive contribution to this process, an important part of the LNSO’s artistic activity is dedicated to symphonic music events designed specifically for children and young people.
Alongside other projects for young audiences, the central pillars of the LNSO’s educational programme are the children’s concert series LeNeSOns and the multimedia concert series for teenagers, Symphonic Hit with Goran Gora.
LeNeSOns
LeNeSOns is a curious and energetic boy with a keen interest in both mischief and music, and for the past fifteen years he has been the main character of the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra’s concert series for children. Designed for young listeners and their families, the series introduces audiences to the world of classical music and the symphony orchestra through a combination of music, storytelling, play, and theatrical adventure.
Each season features four LeNeSOns events united by a common theme, such as celebrations, nature, or fairy-tale characters. During the intermission, concertgoers are invited to participate in creative and educational activities, including arts and crafts workshops and opportunities to explore the instruments of the symphony orchestra.
To ensure that each event is colourful, engaging, and memorable, the series is created by a dedicated artistic team consisting of director Paula Pļavniece, playwright Klāvs Mellis, and designer Evita Bēta. Since the series was founded, its musical direction has been entrusted to LeNeSOns’ godfather, conductor and composer Andris Vecumnieks.
For several years, the character of LeNeSOns has been portrayed on stage by Artūrs Putniņš of the Latvian Puppet Theatre. His friends, Mouse and Loko, are played by actress Anastasija Džordževiča and actor Agris Nātre.
The LeNeSOns events also serve as a creative platform for emerging musicians and conductors, many of whom make their debut performances with a symphony orchestra through the LNSO children’s concerts.
Artistic team:
LeNeSOns – Artūrs Putniņš
Mouse – Anastasija Džordževiča
Loko – Agris Nātre
Director Paula Pļavniece
Playwright Klāvs Mellis
Designer Evita Bēta
Artistic Director Andris Vecumnieks
Useful information:
- LeNeSOns events are recommended for children aged 5 to 11, although younger children are also welcome, at their parents’ discretion regarding the child’s ability to remain attentive.
- The concert is performed in two parts with an intermission; total duration: up to 1 hour 30 minutes.
- The café at the Riga Congress Centre opens one hour before the concert begins (10:00 for the first performance and 13:00 for the second).
- Individual ticket prices start from €11.00. For participants of the cultural education programme Latvian School Bag, the ticket price is €10.00.
- Children aged up to and including six years who do not occupy a separate seat must purchase a special lap ticket for €1.50 (available online or at the box office before the concert).
- A LeNeSOns subscription is available each season, offering access to all concerts in the series at a reduced price (www.lnso.lv/en/calendar).
Musical Dream A Japanese Tale
A Japanese Tale is a concert performance created by the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra and the LNSO Foundation, based on the Japanese folktale Akinosuke’s Dream. The project was developed to introduce children to the magic of acoustic symphonic music while conveying an important message: people with special needs can achieve much more when they are given the opportunity to participate, create, and belong.
In this production, original music by composer Rihards Zaļupe is interwoven with characters and imagery from Japanese folklore. Musicians of the Latvian National Symphony Orchestra perform together with members of the Rhythm Group from Riga Primary School No. 1 – Development Centre. The story is narrated by the acclaimed actor Andris Keišs.
A Japanese Tale reveals not only the power of music and storytelling, but also an essential aspect of Japanese culture: a profound respect for nature, natural phenomena, animals, and all living beings. These principles help shape an inclusive, understanding, and tolerant society, and for this reason we believe they should be introduced to children from an early age.
The LNSO and its Foundation believe that music is a universal language that brings people together. This project demonstrates how stories can become bridges between different worlds, people, and experiences.
Over time, the project has expanded into a range of initiatives involving children with special needs, their families, teachers, artists, and the wider community. In addition to guest performances presented in cities across Latvia, discussions on fostering an inclusive society are organised, bringing together specialists and cultural professionals to share their perspectives.
Creative team and participants:
Composer Rihards Zaļupe
Playwright Klāvs Mellis
Director Anna Klišāne
Illustrator Emīls Ābele
Narrator Andris Keišs
Rhythm Group of Riga Primary School No. 1 – Development Centre (led by Ieva Altrofa)
Latvian National Symphony Orchestra
Conductor Raimonds Gulbis
Useful information:
- Running time: 45 minutes.
- Suitable for audiences aged 5 and above.
- Supported by the State Culture Capital Foundation.
Learn more: japanaspasaka.lv