Ksenija Sidorova and Avi Avital
A Dazzling Duo: Ksenija Sidorova & Avi Avital in Concert – December 6, 2025, in Ventspils
On December 6, 2025, Ventspils will host a spectacular musical event as accordionist Ksenija Sidorova takes the stage alongside world-renowned mandolin virtuoso Avi Avital.
This concert will be one of the most unique highlights of the 2025 season at Concert Hall “Latvija”, bringing together two globally acclaimed artists in a world music program that promises fiery passion, soulful expression, and virtuosic brilliance.
Avi Avital, an exclusive artist of Deutsche Grammophon, is recognized as the world’s leading mandolinist and was the first mandolin player ever nominated for a GRAMMY in the category of Best Instrumental Soloist (2010). He is also a recipient of the ECHO Klassik Award, often referred to as the “Oscar” of classical music, and has performed in the world’s most prestigious concert halls. Over 100 contemporary works have been composed specifically for Avital, playing a key role in the modern renaissance of the mandolin.
The New York Times has described him as “passionate and explosively charismatic,” with performances that have captivated audiences across the globe. His versatility and collaborations across genres have set him apart as one of the most exciting artists of our time.
Returning to Ventspils after an unforgettable concert two years ago, Ksenija Sidorova is celebrated as a true star of the accordion. Often hailed as the “princess of the accordion” and the soul of the instrument, she has graced the stages of the world’s leading concert venues. A graduate of London’s Royal Academy of Music and a recipient of the Prince of Wales Scholarship, Latvian Grand Music Award, and numerous other accolades, Ksenija bridges the worlds of classical and popular music. Her collaborations include performances with artists such as Sting, Zucchero, and Baqir Barsu.
This extraordinary concert promises to blend classical treasures with captivating new arrangements, rhythmic fireworks, whirling dances, poignant lyricism, and fiery romance from the southern lands and the Middle East. The dialogue between these two expressive instruments — the accordion and the mandolin — will transport listeners on an unforgettable musical journey.
The concert is organized by SIA “Kurzemes filharmonija”, with the support of the Ventspils City Municipality and the Latvian State Culture Capital Foundation.