Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

1957 in Valmiera, Latvia

Period

:

Contemporary

 

 

Modern

Genre

:

Choral

 

 

Concerto

 

 

Vocal

 

Arturs Maskats is a Latvian composer who was born on January 20, 1957, in Riga, Latvia. He grew up in a family of musicians, with his father being a composer and his mother a pianist. Maskats started playing the piano at a young age and later studied composition at the Latvian State Conservatory in Riga. Maskats' early works were influenced by the avant-garde movement, but he later developed his own style, which is characterized by a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. His music is often described as emotional and expressive, with a strong sense of melody and harmony. One of Maskats' most notable works is his opera "Valentina," which premiered in 1997 at the Latvian National Opera. The opera tells the story of Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman to travel to space. The music is a mix of traditional Latvian folk melodies and contemporary elements, and the opera has been praised for its emotional depth and powerful storytelling. Another notable work by Maskats is his Symphony No. 3, which was commissioned by the Boston Symphony Orchestra and premiered in 2014. The symphony is a tribute to the Latvian composer Peteris Vasks and is characterized by its use of folk melodies and atmospheric textures. Maskats has also composed a number of works for choir, including his "Lacrimosa" for mixed choir and orchestra, which was premiered in 2009. The piece is a setting of the Latin text from the Requiem Mass and is known for its hauntingly beautiful melodies and lush harmonies. In addition to his work as a composer, Maskats has also been active as a conductor and educator. He has served as the artistic director of the Latvian National Opera and has conducted a number of orchestras around the world. Overall, Arturs Maskats is a highly respected composer who has made significant contributions to the world of classical music. His music is known for its emotional depth and powerful storytelling, and he continues to be a major force in the contemporary classical music scene.

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