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On the evening of November 3, at the “Great Amber” Concert Hall in Liepāja, as part of the annual Nordic Days, Norwegian musician Marja Mortensson impressed the residents of Liepāja and visitors to the city with her vibrant Sámi singing—the joik.

Along with the South Sami singer—a two-time winner of Norway’s “Spellemann” music award—Marja’s stage partners also took part in the program: tuba player and composer Daniel Herskedal and percussionist Jakop Janssønn. The concert featured songs from the singer’s album 'Båalmaldahkesne', which translates to “to be intertwined”—like two strands of twine woven together. These are Marja’s stories, her yoiks, her entire world, where life is inseparable from the canvas of culture. The singer speaks of the language that colors everyday life, of children’s amazing ability to live in the moment, and of young people’s fighting spirit. About the sense of belonging and unity that strengthens the passing down of heritage to future generations.

The added value of the concert came from Marja’s stories about traditions, her family, and why it is important to her to preserve this magical form of singing—yoiking. The stories set the stage for the singing and provided additional insight into the music, yet the melodic and vibrant sound captivated the audience and held their attention even without further explanation. The concert’s exploration of tradition and the significance of language in Sámi culture forged a special connection with the Latvian audience, offering them the chance to appreciate the shared importance of similar values in both cultures.

The audience was completely enchanted and grateful for the concert; they eagerly met with the singer to offer their praise and take home a piece of the beautiful performance in recorded form.

Before the concert, a photo exhibition titled “The Nordic Countries in Latvia – 35 Years” was on display in the concert hall’s entrance hall. It captured the most memorable moments from the 35 years of the Nordic Council of Ministers’ Office in Latvia. Visitors were delighted to see familiar faces among the long-standing partners in the photographs.

The concert took place as part of Nordic Days, an event aimed at strengthening cooperation and cultural exchange. This initiative travels to different cities in Latvia each year. This year, Liepāja was chosen as the venue, offering a wide-ranging program for residents and visitors alike. Although the recent concert is considered the highlight, several events in Liepāja will continue through November 30.

The concert was supported by the Nordic Council of Ministers’ Office in Latvia, The Royal Norwegian Embassy in Riga, and the Liepāja City Council.