Opera soloist and vocal pedagogue Lilija Greidāne has passed away
Lilija Greidāne, a prominent opera singer and vocal teacher in Latvia, passed away on February 13, 2023, leaving a significant legacy in the field of music.
Lilija Greidāne, born on November 14, 1944, passed away on February 13, 2023. Her artistic career spanned over thirty years at the Latvian National Opera, where she became renowned for her distinctive voice, regal stage presence, and the ability to capture the essence of every character she portrayed. Greidāne's repertoire included over thirty roles, showcasing her versatility in both leading and character parts, including roles such as Mimì, Lelde, Adriana Lecouvreur, Michaëla, Desdemona, and others.
In addition to her illustrious performing career, Greidāne served for many years as the head of the Vocal Department at the Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music, where she dedicated herself to training the next generation of opera singers. Her impact on music education in Latvia has been profound, fostering the growth of young talents in the field. Throughout her career, she actively participated in vocal symphonic performances and chamber music, further enriching the cultural landscape of Latvia.
Greidāne's contributions to the arts were recognized with multiple awards, including the Latvian Gas Annual Award for Opera in 2007 for her lifetime achievement, and in 2023, her work was honored with the Great Music Award for lifetime achievement. Her passing marks the loss of a significant figure in Latvian opera and music education, whose influence will be remembered in the artistic community.