Saulkrasti Jazz Festival

Every July, the picturesque town of Saulkrasti, Latvia, pulses with the vibrant sounds of jazz during the Saulkrasti Jazz Festival. This week-long celebration goes beyond offering exceptional music—it provides a unique educational opportunity for aspiring musicians. One of the standout events is the Baltic Drummers' League, an international competition that highlights the skills of young percussionists.

Organized in collaboration with the Riga Dome Choir School and Paiste, the competition is divided into two age categories: Juniors (14-17 years old) and Seniors (18-25 years old). Participants demonstrate their talents across various segments, including solo snare drum, solo percussion set, performances with a phonogram or ensemble, and an open solo for seniors.

Adding to the excitement is a panel of international judges who assess the finalists. Distinguished judges have included Eric Moore from the United States, Aleksandr Murenko from Ukraine, Venko Poromanski from Bulgaria, and Zaza Tsertsvadze from Georgia. These esteemed professionals bring a wealth of expertise and insight, making the competition an invaluable experience for all involved.