6 June, 18.00 The concert “Hello, Brother Mona” by Vilnius folklore ensemble “Visi” will take place at Klaipėda Ethnoculture Centre (Daržų g.10). The ensemble’s newly learned and long-loved songs, already familiar to folklore lovers and recognised as the ensemble’s “golden fund”, will be performed during their expeditions to Southern Samogitia.

The folklore ensemble, known as “Visiukai” since ancient times, was formed in the deep Soviet era – in 1980 at the then Vilnius Engineering Construction Institute (VISI). The ensemble was not only made up of future architects and engineers, but also students of the then Conservatory and VU. From the very beginning of its existence, “Visiukai” broke the old stereotypes of stage image, folk singing and communication, and influenced many folk ensembles that were emerging throughout Lithuania.

Although the repertoire of “Visiuki” includes old calendar songs, sutartinės, as well as songs from 19th century collections, the ensemble members are particularly fond of singing southern Samogitian songs, which they recorded themselves on folklore expeditions. As many as 20 such expeditions have been organised in Southern Samogitia (Kelmė, Šilalė, Raseiniai and Tauragė districts). “Visiukai is not just a concert ensemble. Over the years, singing has become a very important form of fellowship for the ensemble members. They sing together on major calendar, family and national holidays. You will recognise the loud, richly coloured singing of the “visiukai” from afar.

And after the songs, we’ll take our time to disperse. Traditional instrumental music performed spectacularly by the musicians of “Visi” will invite you to have fun and dance.

This concert is part of the cycle of events “Travelling Songs” initiated by the Klaipėda Ethno-Cultural Centre to celebrate the Year of Lithuanian Folk Songs.

FREE EVENT