The Latvian-Finnish choir “Ziemeļmeita” was founded in Helsinki in 2013. From the very beginning, the choir has been led by the talented conductor Ilmārs Millers, guiding “Ziemeļmeita” on a path of self-discovery and growth. Over the years, the quality of performance has risen and has been recognized by professionals: in choir competitions, “Ziemeļmeita” received high marks in the Latvian diaspora choir category. As the choir’s artistic level increased, so did the number of its annual concerts, which resulted in greater recognition within the Latvian diaspora and sparked interest in the choir and the heritage of Latvian choral music among Finnish choral music enthusiasts. “Ziemeļmeita” actively tours and has performed in England, Belgium, Sweden, Germany, and Estonia. However, the choir most enjoys performing in Latvia. The Latvian Song and Dance Festival, held every five years, regularly invites “Ziemeļmeita” to Riga. In the meantime, the choir has taken part in both large and small but always exciting projects in Latvia, such as participation in the rock opera Lāčplēsis, as well as memorable concert tours in the Kurzeme region and at the Alūksne City Festival. In addition to its artistic work, the choir also carries out an important mission by maintaining social connections among Latvians living in Finland. A sense of belonging to Latvia and strengthening that bond is one of the most important priorities of the diaspora. Since 2016, Rihards Zariņš has served as the choir’s second conductor. The choir also maintains regular collaboration with guest conductor Karol Kisiel from Poland.



































































