Maestro Atbalsta Koncerta Ieceru – Lente.lv

A planned concert series honoring Latvian composer Raimonds Pauls has become embroiled in controversy as the maestro himself publicly disavowed the event. Initially promoted as “Raimonds Pauls’ Song Festival ‘To My Fatherland’,” the project has faced what organizers describe as a “broad and active smear campaign.” The dispute centers on the use of Pauls’ name and image without his consent.

The Dispute Unfolds

On January 26th, Raimonds Pauls released a statement asserting he had not authorized the use of his name, image, or trademark for the festival. He stated, “My name is stuck there. Very false.” Pauls has engaged legal counsel to address the issue. The initial advertising and a registered trademark – “RAIMONDA PAULA DZIESMU SVĒTKI Manai Dzimtenei” (Raimonds Pauls’ Song Festival ‘To My Fatherland’) – have since been removed following public pressure.

Did You Know? Raimonds Pauls’ song “Manai Dzimtenei” (“To My Fatherland”) was written in 1972 to commemorate the centennial of Latvian Song Festivals.

Initial Agreement and Subsequent Disagreement

Organizers, representing the association “Manai Dzimtenei” and SIA “AUSS Media,” claim a meeting took place in November 2024 where Pauls expressed no objections to the concert idea. They further state that in December 2024, Jānis Ķirsis, the concert’s artistic director, discussed the planned repertoire and arrangements with Pauls. However, Pauls’ representatives dispute these claims, alleging his name and image were used in advertising to create a misleading impression of his involvement.

Despite the disagreement, organizers maintain the concert’s artistic concept remains unchanged, even after renaming the event to “Song Festival ‘To My Fatherland’” on January 19, 2026, in response to Pauls’ position. Notably, Pauls’ legal representative issued a license on July 25, 2025, permitting the arrangement and use of his work in a printed songbook associated with the festival.

Expert Insight: Disputes over the use of an artist’s name and likeness are common in the entertainment industry, often stemming from differing interpretations of initial agreements or a perceived lack of control over how an artist’s brand is represented. This situation highlights the importance of clear, documented consent and the potential for legal challenges when those agreements are unclear.

Wider Concerns and the Song’s History

Several composers, musicians, and choir conductors have publicly criticized the project, labeling it “unethical, manipulative and a greedy money-making project” lacking Pauls’ approval. They argue such ventures have no place in Latvian culture and have called for those involved to reconsider their participation. The song “Manai Dzimtenei,” with lyrics by Jānis Peters, has become a beloved national anthem, though it was initially excluded from the 1973 Song Festival before gaining prominence in 1977.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted Raimonds Pauls to publicly disassociate himself from the concert?

Raimonds Pauls stated his name, image, and trademark were used without his consent, describing the association as “very false.”

What changes have been made to the concert following Pauls’ statement?

The concert’s name was changed from “Raimonds Pauls’ Song Festival ‘To My Fatherland’” to “Song Festival ‘To My Fatherland’”.

What is the significance of the song “Manai Dzimtenei”?

Written in 1972, “Manai Dzimtenei” has become one of Latvia’s most beloved songs and a symbol of national identity, frequently performed at Song Festivals since 1977.

It remains to be seen whether the renaming of the festival will quell the controversy. Further legal action from Pauls is a possibility, and the event could face continued scrutiny from the Latvian music community. The organizers may attempt to proceed with the concert, emphasizing the artistic merit of the program, or they could face mounting pressure to cancel the event altogether.