Composer

:

Uldis Marhilevics

Genre

:

Choral

Average_duration

:

05:04

Mēs esam (We Are) is a choral work composed by Uldis Marhilevics, a Latvian composer, conductor, and music educator. The piece was composed in 1988, during a time of political and social change in Latvia, as the country was transitioning from Soviet rule to independence. The premiere of Mēs esam took place on November 18, 1988, at the Latvian National Opera in Riga, Latvia, as part of the celebrations of Latvia's independence day. Mēs esam is a four-movement choral work that is characterized by its powerful and emotional expression of Latvian identity and national pride. The first movement, titled "Mēs esam" (We Are), is a bold and triumphant declaration of Latvian identity, with the choir singing in unison to express the strength and unity of the Latvian people. The second movement, "Mūsu zeme" (Our Land), is a more reflective and introspective piece that celebrates the beauty and richness of the Latvian landscape, with the choir singing in lush harmonies to evoke the natural beauty of the country. The third movement, "Mūsu valoda" (Our Language), is a passionate and emotional tribute to the Latvian language, which was suppressed during the Soviet era. The choir sings in a powerful and urgent manner, expressing the importance of the Latvian language as a symbol of national identity and cultural heritage. The final movement, "Mūsu dziesma" (Our Song), is a joyful and celebratory piece that brings together all the themes of the previous movements, with the choir singing in exultant harmonies to express the joy and pride of being Latvian. Overall, Mēs esam is a powerful and emotional work that expresses the deep sense of national identity and pride that was felt by the Latvian people during a time of great change and upheaval. The piece has become an important symbol of Latvian culture and identity, and is often performed at national celebrations and events.

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