“Ballads in Moonlight” – a concert by the piano trio FortVio, inviting listeners on a musical journey through eras and traditions, inspired by natural landscapes and poetic imagery.

The 13th International M. K. Čiurlionis Music Festival presents a unique concert where different epochs, styles, and musical traditions meet – from Lithuanian compositions to global masterpieces. The acclaimed ensemble FortVio, known for its artistry and dedication, once again promises to captivate audiences with a program that merges deep emotional resonance with musical discovery. This time, they explore the spirit of Čiurlionis’ work alongside the beauty of compositions by his contemporaries and kindred voices.

The concert will feature works by Čiurlionis that reflect the beauty of his homeland and his symbolic vision. Eduardas Balsys’ Habanera, infused with both Lithuanian and global musical elements, will follow. Antonín Dvořák’s “Dumky” Trio blends Romanticism with folk character – a parallel to Čiurlionis’ own aesthetic. The program also includes Claude Debussy’s beloved Clair de Lune, an impressionistic meditation on nature, and Astor Piazzolla’s Winter and Spring from The Four Seasons, thematically close to Čiurlionis in their deeply rooted connection with the natural world.

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PROGRAMME:

❯ Mikalojus Konstantinas ČIURLIONIS (1875–1911)

Pastorale, VL 187

Preludes in F major/a minor and f minor, VL 197

(arr. by Nailia Galiamova)

❯ Eduardas BALSYS (1919–1984)

Habanera from the film Adam Wants to Be a Man

(arr. by Anatolijus Šenderovas)

❯ Antonín DVOŘÁK (1841–1904)

Piano Trio No. 4, Op. 90 “Dumky”

I. Lento maestoso – Allegro quasi doppio movimento

II. Poco adagio – Vivace non troppo – Vivace

III. Andante – Vivace non troppo – Allegretto

IV. Andante moderato – Allegretto scherzando – Quasi tempo di marcia

V. Allegro

VI. Lento maestoso

❯ Claude DEBUSSY (1862–1918)

Clair de Lune

(arr. by Titas Petrikis)

❯ Astor PIAZZOLLA (1921–1992)

Winter and Spring from The Four Seasons

(arr. by Jose Bragato and FortVio)

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ABOUT THE PERFORMERS:

The FortVio Piano Trio, known for its vivid and expressive interpretations, was founded in 2006 and has been actively performing ever since. Formed by graduates of the National M. K. Čiurlionis School of Arts and the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre, the ensemble quickly garnered international acclaim. In April 2006, they won 1st Prize at the 5th International Stasys Vainiūnas Competition for Pianists and Chamber Ensembles (Vilnius, Lithuania), followed by 3rd Prize at the 13th Johannes Brahms International Competition in Pörtschach (Austria) later that year. The trio’s preparation was guided by Professor Dalia Balsytė.

In 2007, FortVio made a highly successful debut at the International Thomas Mann Festival in Nida, to which they have returned with new original programs. In 2008, the ensemble won 2nd Prize and two special awards at the 3rd International S. Taneev Chamber Ensemble Competition. In 2012, they became members of the European Chamber Music Academy (ECMA), and in 2013 earned the Grand Prix in the chamber ensemble category at an international competition for music educators in Warsaw.

FortVio’s performance style is distinguished not only by its refined technique and organic musicality but also by captivating interpretations enriched with a touch of natural humor. Their repertoire spans a broad spectrum – from Viennese Classicism and 19th-century Romanticism to 20th–21st century works, including music by contemporary Lithuanian composers. Often woven into a single concert program, this diversity impresses with both its color and depth.

In 2014, the trio was awarded the Lithuanian Government Culture and Arts Prize.

Ensemble members:

Indrė Baikštytė – piano

Ingrida Rupaitė – violin

Povilas Jacunskas – cello

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EVENT INFORMATION

Date & Time: July 12, 2025, 8:00 PM

Venue: Palanga Kurhaus Concert Hall, Palanga

Address: Grafų Tiškevičių Ave. 1, Palanga

Duration: ~1,5 hours

Tickets: HERE

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ORGANIZERS

Public Institution “Klasika LT”

Contact: info@ciurlionisfestival.com / +370 650 63373