The aim of the project “From observing to understanding Latvian cultural heritage” is to make Latvia’s song heritage, especially the Song and Dance Celebration tradition, accessible and understandable to English- and Ukrainian-speaking audiences in Latvia and beyond.
The Latvian Song and Dance Celebration tradition is one of the most significant values of the Latvian Cultural Canon and an essential symbol of our nation’s identity. Within the project, participants are given the opportunity not only to learn about the history and significance of the Song Celebrations, but also to understand the values embedded in them – a sense of togetherness, cultural memory, the importance of language, and belonging to Latvia.
The project is based on the principle “not only to observe, but also to understand”. Participants explore Latvia’s cultural heritage through songs, stories, historical context, and discussions, discovering how music has helped preserve Latvian identity and unite society across different periods of history.
Within the project, the following are carried out:
- educational materials on the Song and Dance Celebration tradition, its history and significance are prepared;
- song translations and explanations in English and Ukrainian are created;
- video materials with subtitles are compiled so that Latvia’s cultural heritage is accessible to a wider audience;
- educational meetings, lectures, and discussions on the Latvian song tradition are organized.
Within the project, three public activities are planned:
- an educational meeting about the Song and Dance Celebration tradition, its history and significance;
- a visit to the Mežaparks Great Stage to get to know the place where the tradition is continued;
- a lecture on the Singing Revolution and the role of songs in the process of restoring Latvia’s independence.
The project manager is Tetiana Mazurenko. Receives a VKKF creative scholarship for Ukrainian citizens.
