Join us for an unforgettable evening at the “Saxophonia Festival 2025”, as the renowned Latvian Radio Big Band performs with celebrated Swedish saxophonist Magnus Lindgren and two-time “Grammy” award - winning pianist and composer John Beasley.
This gala concert will showcase two remarkable programs “Bird Lives” – a tribute to the legendary Charlie Parker, composed by Lindgren and Beasley and “Monk’estra” – a vibrant celebration of Thelonious Monk’s music, arranged by Beasley.
Magnus Lindgren is a versatile soloist on tenor saxophone, flute, and clarinet, known for his dynamic arrangements for big bands and orchestras. He has collaborated with renowned artists like Herbie Hancock, Gregory Porter, and Bobby McFerrin, and continues to make waves as a conductor in the European jazz scene.
John Beasley, a prolific pianist, composer, and arranger, has performed with icons such as Miles Davis and Dianne Reeves. His extensive work spans television and film, earning him 2 “GRAMMY” Awards and multiple nominations.
Prepare for a night of innovation and musical brilliance as these world-class artists breathe new life into jazz classics.

"I see a bright and promising future for this young talented singer!" said the legendary jazz pianist and producer of Michael Jackson's album Thriller, Quincy Jones, about the Portugese jazz diva Maria Mendes.
In the intimate tête-à-tête atmosphere of the event, the audience will have the opportunity to experience the soulfulness of traditional Portuguese fado combined with the lyricism of jazz, as well as jazz music standards.
Since March 2024, Spīķeri Concert Hall has been hosting jazz evenings hosted by radio personalities from Radio SWH. For a limited time, the concert hall becomes a world-class jazz club with a unique ambience. Concert guests enjoy the events in a relaxed atmosphere at tables where they are served appetizers specially prepared by chef Lauris Aleksejevs (appetizers and a special cocktail are included in the price of each ticket). Radio SWH Jazz Club has already welcomed world-class stars such as American trombonist Marshall Gilkes, Danish violinist Line Kruse, Grammy-nominated Cuban vocalist Daymé Arocena, and others. Vinyl DJ Mareks Ameriks is in charge of the musical atmosphere of the concert venue, and, additionally, Jersika Records runs a record stand. During the events, visitors can purchase additional refreshments of their choice at the café.
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“Bringing together jazz and Fado has been the most important and artistically fulfilling work that I have done so far, really feeding my soul. It’s been a new awakening to connect with this beautiful legacy that came from my ancestors,” says the Portuguese chanteuse Maria Mendes.

The Latvian Radio Big Band and Maria Mendes have been working on a new project and have  assembled material from her 4x Grammy and Latin Grammy nominated “Fado Jazz” repertoire, specially arranged for the Latvian Radio Big Band. This is a celebration to virtuosity, to poetic lyrical playing and singing, to creativity and exploration on defying the boundaries of music genres.

This music is a result of a handful of iconic fados – such as “Foi Deus”, “Tudo Isto É Fado”- and traditional Portuguese songs - such as “Quando Eu Era Pequenina” and “Verdes Anos” – interpreted to a mesmerizing music world that fuses jazz, contemporary and folk music. Notably, the legendary Hermeto Pascoal, dedicated a song to the singer with his experimental version of a Fado, sung without words. One of Maria’s favourites is “Com Que Voz”, an ancient song from Portugal which lyrics span 500 years, written by the poet Luis de Camões, considered by many the Portuguese Shakespeare, and immortalized by Amália Rodrigues, the "Queen of Fado”. This song will open the show and set the mood for the audience to witness an unforgettable evening of music where the lush orchestral sound of the Big Band creates sparks when meeting the exhilarating interplay of Mendes’ fervent voice singing stories of saudade, longing and love.
“A jazz singer of the highest order. The lush symphonic sound sparks when it meets the interplay of Mendes’s brilliant quartet and the singer’s fervent vocals.” – DOWNBEAT
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Latvian Radio Big Band presents a tribute to jazz legends Count Basie and Sammy Nestico, featuring classics from Basie Straight Ahead and Fun Time. The concert highlights rich harmonies, dynamic rhythms, and refined musicality.

Special guest of the concert is Erik van Lier, a renowned Dutch trombonist, who will bring his virtuosity and extensive big band experience to the performance.
Part of the “American Jazz Night” series, this concert celebrates jazz’s roots in the U.S., featuring both Latvian and international soloists. The series has showcased acclaimed artists like Kristīne Prauliņa, Chris Noah, and Georgia Cecile, premiering new programs and original works.
Erik van Lier, a distinguished bass trombonist, has performed with legendary big bands and taught worldwide. He currently mentors jazz students at the Conservatory of Amsterdam.
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Anthony Strong's swaggering vocals and swinging piano style are matched by an energy that have entertained audiences at his live shows around the world. Join us this evening for a real jazz bar feel!
Since March 2024, Spīķeri Concert Hall has been hosting jazz evenings hosted by radio personalities from Radio SWH. For a limited time, the concert hall becomes a world-class jazz club with a unique ambience. Concert guests enjoy the events in a relaxed atmosphere at tables where they are served appetizers specially prepared by chef Lauris Aleksejevs (appetizers and a special cocktail are included in the price of each ticket). Radio SWH Jazz Club has already welcomed world-class stars such as American trombonist Marshall Gilkes, Danish violinist Line Kruse, Grammy-nominated Cuban vocalist Daymé Arocena, and others. Vinyl DJ Mareks Ameriks is in charge of the musical atmosphere of the concert venue, and, additionally, Jersika Records runs a record stand. During the events, visitors can purchase additional refreshments of their choice at the café.
TICKETS