Big concert in Leipzig: 150 years of Mikolajus Čiurlionis celebrated!

Big concert in Leipzig: 150 years of Mikolajus Čiurlionis celebrated!

On October 21, 2025, a special concert will take place at the University of Music and Theater “Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy” in Leipzig to commemorate the 150th birthday of the Lithuanian national composer and painter Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis. This event is not only a tribute to one of Lithuania's most important artists, but also highlights the rediscovery of his works, which often only received posthumous recognition. [leipziginfo.de]. Entry is free.

Čiurlionis, born on September 22, 1875 in Senoji Varėna, was a pioneer of abstract art in Europe. His influence can be felt not only in painting, but also in music, where he created around 400 pieces of music and 300 paintings. He showed musical talent from early childhood, being able to play by ear at the age of five and being able to read music at the age of seven. wikipedia.org provides a comprehensive overview of his work and his impressive stages in life, such as studying at the Leipzig Conservatory.

The meaning of Čiurlionis

Čiurlionis' works are a fascinating interplay of music and painting. He was inspired by nature, which is also reflected in his first orchestral work “Miške” (“In the Forest”). His creative work was characterized by a deep synesthesia; He called his paintings “sonatas,” emphasizing the connection between visual and musical art. This unique perception is reminiscent of the composer Alexander Scriabin, who was also fascinated by the idea of ​​merging the arts.

Despite his tragic early death from pneumonia at just 35, the artist left a lasting impression. His music only really became known after his death, especially in the years between 1918 and 1940 during Lithuanian independence. But after the Red Army invaded, a phase of repression began in Lithuania, which led to a further decline in his popularity. It was only after Lithuania regained independence in 1990 that his work experienced a renaissance.

Concert program and participants

The upcoming concert in Leipzig will feature works for string quartet and piano as well as improvisations on themes by Čiurlionis. Participants include the renowned professors Michael Wollny on the piano and Thomas Lennartz on the organ. Anticipation is growing for this musical celebration, which offers listeners the opportunity to experience the complex world of Čiurlionis’ art.

For fans of classical music and art lovers, this concert is a not-to-be-missed event that brings to life the legacy of one of Lithuania's greatest artists. Čiurlionis' influence is more relevant today than ever, especially on the occasion of his 150th birthday, which will be honored with an inspiring artistic event.