Klaipėda is a city of free minds, open-minded people and a unique spirit, of which a unique musical history has been an integral part for several decades. Like New Orleans in the United States, Klaipėda is the Lithuanian cradle of classical jazz. Lithuania's only port city is a true port of cultural transformation, always the first to sense new trends in art and music.
In 1978, inspired by the world's musical winds, the historic jazz music collective Klaipėdos diksilendas was formed here. The group soon became one of the most popular and significant classical jazz collectives in Lithuania, uniting the country's most experienced, bright and distinctive jazz masters. Distinguished by their deep sense of jazz styles, precise and professional interpretation, artistry, and having changed their name several times over the past four decades, the group returned to the big stage in 2016 as Klaipėda Dixieland Memeland.
The work of the band's first founder Pranciškus Narutis (who also founded the Department of Estraditional Music at the LVK Klaipėda faculties) was this time performed by Klaipėda-based saxophonist Laimonas Urbikas.The new phase of the legendary band was inspired by Urbikas' desire and aspiration to bring together traditional jazz lovers for exceptional concerts. The core of the group, which will continue the historical musical tradition, is Klaipėda legend, pianist, maestro Prof. Saulius Šiaučiulis, who has been a member of the group since the first day of its establishment. Legendary musical melodies are also provided by another long-standing member of the group, who joined the band in 1985 - drummer Edmundas Federavičius.
The new collective presents concert programmes together with the most famous vocalists. This time, the charismatic Kristina Jatautaitė, the best soloist in Klaipėda, will lend her voice to the concert.
Hear us so that those who love traditional jazz - can enjoy it, and those who have not yet discovered it - can fall in love. Immerse yourself in a real burst of Klaipėda's music, which unites professional and traditional jazz lovers!
