Concert “Following Čiurlionis” – Improvisations Inspired by the Music of M. K. Čiurlionis

As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis' birth, his creative legacy remains a boundless source of inspiration for artists, while his music continues to move and enchant listeners around the world.

“Following Čiurlionis” is an improvisational music project in which two of Lithuania’s leading jazz masters – pianist Dmitrijus Golovanovas and saxophonist Janas Maksimovičius – present their own musical interpretation of Čiurlionis’ beauty, fragility, and grandeur.

The program consists of arranged piano preludes by Čiurlionis, reimagined through the lens of free improvisation. As a historically improvisational form, the prelude resonates naturally with the jazz tradition. The performers’ mastery and creative insight allow them to explore new interpretative directions while maintaining deep respect for the original material.

This concert opens up a cultural dialogue between classical music, contemporary jazz, and improvisation. Avoiding jazz clichés, the duo draws on Čiurlionis’ authentic motifs, harmonic elements, and musical language. Their connection on stage – almost telepathic – allows the music to emerge spontaneously, vividly, and uniquely in the moment.

The concert will also feature the premiere of the newly released CD album “After Čiurlionis” (2025), which will be available for purchase after the performance.

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PERFORMERS

Dmitrijus Golovanovas is one of the most active and creative figures in the Lithuanian jazz scene, with a career spanning over two decades. During his studies, he trained with legendary American pianist Richie Beirach in Germany. This experience helped shape his distinctive, precise, and expressive playing style. Golovanovas’ achievements have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Grand Prix in a solo piano competition, finalist diploma at the Europe Jazz Competition, the Golden Disc from the Lithuanian Musicians’ Union, and the Grand Prix of the Birštonas Jazz Festival. His discography includes over 15 albums, including 3 solo recordings and several collaborative projects.

Janas Maksimovičius is one of Lithuania’s most prominent mid-generation saxophonists. His playing is marked by a rich tonal palette, virtuosic technique, and inventive, often surprising musical phrasing. With extensive experience in the field of improvisational music, he achieves an extraordinary level of expressiveness and artistry that opens listeners’ hearts and minds. Janas has led various ensembles and has collaborated with leading Lithuanian and international artists, including Tim Daisy, Vein Trio, the Lithuanian National Symphony Orchestra, and many others.

Project supported by:

Lithuanian Council for Culture

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EVENT INFORMATION

Date & Time: October 3, 2025

Venue: Cultural Center, Utena

Address: Aušros str. 49, Utena

Duration: ~1 hour

More information: HERE

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ORGANIZED BY

Lithuanian Jazz Federation

Contact: info@jazzlt.lt

Program

Concert “Following Čiurlionis”

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