It is said that Melo-M's image of classic costumes and instruments is deceiving - their performances rarely go according to a planned script, and not only the audience but themselves rise from their seats. In April and May, Latvian cello virtuosos will enchant the audience of Vilnius, Kaunas and Palanga with their ability to play various genres of music, from classic rock to pop music hits.
The band, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, never expected at the beginning of its career that it would ever share the same stage with bands like Apocalyptica, Boney M or Gipsy Kings. In 2004, Karlis Auzans wrote down the idea about the project of three cellists, which soon came to fruition. After offering a couple of friends to play in a television project, he did not dream that after that the trio would have concerts at the European Film Awards, that they would represent the country at international tourism exhibitions in Paris, Rome, London or go on tours in the United States of America.
The six members of Melo-M, who have released six music albums, say that the beauty of music lies in the fact that you never have to stick to one genre. "After all, the most significant thing is the melody we perform with the cellos. That's why our name is Melo-M - Melody Mania", K. Auzans shared his thoughts. It seems that the performers cherish this idea not only on stage, but also in their everyday life, creating music for films, theater, working at the Latvian National Opera or performing with an impressive orchestra of 100 cellists.
These are artists who won't get mad if someone calls them names geeks (lit. škliųkais) – the mere fact that all the members' cellos are hundreds of years old would really surprise many. The leader of the group, K. Auzans, said that his instrument has been tirelessly playing since 1857, while Mikelio's colleagues are more than a century old. However, the last cello of the trio is the oldest – it has been surprising audiences for around 300 years.
When asked about the program being prepared for the Lithuanian audience, they do not hide that it will be the best compilation of existing melodies. Perhaps the well-known track "Final Countdown" will be played as well - one of the most important tunes in Melo-M's career. This version they played became one of the most popular versions of this song in the world.
"Melo-M" will hold three performances in Lithuania in the spring on April 19. In Vilnius, St. Catherine's Church, May 8. Beautiful, at the People's House, and on May 11 Palanga concert hall. The concerts are supported by the Latvian State Cultural Capital Foundation.
