During the festive season, the Vilnius University (VU) Culture Centre invites both citizens and visitors of the capital city to enjoy the magical atmosphere of holiday anticipation through an inspiring program of musical events.
"The festive season is when music and the spirit of anticipating the holiday miracle bring people together. Each year, the VU Culture Centre is delighted to enhance the city's festive atmosphere by creating new and modern traditions. Our events encourage you to return year after year to share in the joy and feel the spirit of the upcoming holidays together. Most of our events are free and open to everyone, creating a special space that unites not only the university community but also the residents and visitors of Vilnius," says Gintė Jokubaitienė, Director of the VU Culture Centre.
The anticipation of Christmas wouldn't be the same without the traditional concert of the VU Wind Orchestra “Oktava”. This year, the concert titled “Oktalėdos 2024” will take place on December 21 at 5:00 PM in the VU Great Hall (M. K. Čiurlionio g. 21).
The event promises a delightful array of musical treasures, featuring iconic works by Frank Sinatra and The Beatles, as well as melodies by George Gershwin and Henry Mancini, all beautifully arranged for orchestra. Charismatic soloists and dancers from the VU Lindy Hop Dance Group will also contribute to the festive atmosphere!
The concert is free and open to everyone.
The festive program of events includes a concert by the VU Organ Studio “Unda Maris”, which will take place on December 21st at 6 PM. The concert will be held at St. John's Church. Attendees will enjoy a unique festive repertoire that features classical pieces, such as Bach's Trio Sonatas, alongside a contemporary work by Graham Twist, whose scores have been specially provided for this event. This concert is free and open to all, inviting everyone to experience the extraordinary sound of the organ, often referred to as the king of musical instruments.
The VU Culture Centre will conclude its festive events with the VU Chamber Orchestra's concert, “On Christmas Eve”, which has become a beloved tradition for Vilnius residents during the Christmas season. This year's concert is scheduled for December 26 at 18:00 and will be held at St. John's Church.
A highlight of this year's performance is the first-ever presentation in Lithuania of the Concertino by French composer Jean-Michel Damase, featuring the talented harpist Giedra Julija Tutkutė. This concert promises not only a captivating musical experience but also an emotional journey filled with French charm, subtlety, and grace. Tickets for the concert can be purchased here.
For more details about the events, visit the VU Culture Centre website or their social media pages.