Roberts Balanas & Plínio Fernandes

On August 2, as the grand finale of the Ventspils City Festival, a special concert will be performed by the world-renowned Latvian violinist Roberts Balanas and one of the most brilliant classical guitarists of the new generation, Plínio Fernandes from Brazil.

Roberts Balanas is one of Latvia’s most internationally recognized musicians, whose original arrangements and virtuoso violin playing break the boundaries between classical and contemporary music. His performances have been highly praised by Elton John, Jacob Collier, and members of Pink Floyd. With millions of views on social media and performances in Europe's most prestigious concert halls, Roberts Balanas has become a prominent ambassador of Latvia's name in the world.

The special guest of the festive concert will be guitarist Plínio Fernandes from Brazil. Born in São Paulo, the artist’s playing organically combines the elegance of the classical guitar with Brazilian rhythms, Latin temperament, and a warm, emotional sound. Plínio Fernandes' album Saudade reached No. 1 on the Billboard Traditional Classical Albums chart, while his performances at London’s Wigmore Hall, the BBC Proms, and elsewhere have garnered standing ovations and sold-out crowds.

The concert will feature Roberts Balanas' original arrangements for violin, masterpieces of classical music, and specially crafted versions of popular songs. Both artists will also perform together, blending the sounds of violin and guitar with Brazilian and Latin rhythms, improvisation, and a modern musical language.

The concert is organized by SIA “Kurzemes filharmonija” with the support of the Ventspils State City Municipality and the State Culture Capital Foundation.

Photography and video recording are possible during the event. The obtained materials will be used for publicity purposes of the event, on the website and social media accounts of the concert hall "Latvija".