In anticipation of Christmas, the majestic vaults of Riga Cathedral will resound with the most heartfelt and eagerly awaited musical event of the year - world-renowned opera diva Inese Galante's "Christmas Prelude". For the thirteenth year in a row, outstanding artists will gather on stage on this day to give listeners the special magic of Christmas. The concert has become one of Latvia's brightest pre-Christmas traditions and an integral part of Riga's identity.
The audience will be treated to performances by the brilliant countertenor and baroque music interpreter Sergejs Jēgers, the outstanding composer and organist Aivars Kalējs, the dazzling Latvian National Opera and Ballet soloists, soprano Inna Klochko, the expressive tenor and LNOB soloist Artjoms Safronovs, and, of course, the star of the evening herself – opera diva Inese Galante. The piano accompaniment will be provided by the talented pianist and winner of many music competitions Aleksandrs Kalējs. In line with one of the main goals of the Inese Galante Foundation – to support young talents and help them take their first steps on the big stage – the winners of the "Inese Galante Talents" competition, bright rising stars, will also participate in the concert. The performance by the boys' choir of Jāzeps Mediņš Riga 1st Music School, conducted by Romāns Vanags, always creates a special, emotionally moving atmosphere.
On this festive evening, the interior of the Dome Cathedral will be transformed by dynamic light installations that will blend organically with the musical program.