KINGS OF THE SWING ERA

Orchestra RIGA Big Band
Conductor Roberts Martini
Soloists: Sofia Rubina-Hunter (Estonia) & Daumants Kalniņš
Host: Raitis Zapackis

Swing emerged in the 1930s and 40s as jazz’s most danceable and uplifting style—offering a joyful escape during the Great Depression and World War II. With its infectious rhythm, walking bass lines, syncopation, and signature groove on the second and fourth beat, swing became the golden sound of the big band era. It filled ballrooms, radio waves, and record players across America and beyond. This concert pays tribute to the legends who defined swing: Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Tommy Dorsey, Count Basie, Artie Shaw, Peggy Lee, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and more.

Taking the stage with Orchestra RIGA are two dazzling vocalists: Latvia’s own Daumants Kalniņš and Estonia’s celebrated jazz and soul singer Sofia Rubina-Hunter. With a voice full of warmth and charisma, Sofia has graced top venues like New York’s “Blue Note” and toured across Asia and Europe. She has performed with jazz greats such as Joe Lovano, Danilo Perez, Raimonds Pauls, and even shared the stage with Seal and Incognito. Adding depth and context to the evening’s music is our knowledgeable and charismatic host, Raitis Zapackis.

The concert “Kings of the Swing Era” will take place on February 15, 2026, at 4:00 PM at VEF Culture Palace. Tickets available at Biļešu paradīze box offices and online. Early bird lovers get 20% off with code VALENTINDIENA20 – special offer valid all summer, until the end of October.