Latvian Folk Band “Vilkači” Visits UW 

Submitted by Kayley Luhrs on
Vilkaci with oak planted by the Honorary Consul of Latvia
Performing in SCAND 100
Performing in SCAND class

On October 10th and 11th, “Vilkači” (‘Werewolves'), one of the most well-known Latvian folk bands, visited Seattle with the concert program “Ak, Latvija, kur tavi dēli?” (‘Oh, Latvia, where are your sons?’). The group also gave brief lessons about Baltic tribes, ancient Latvian life, beliefs, military traditions, and singing culture. This was the first event of their North American tour organized by the cultural association TILTS in cooperation with local Latvian organizations.

The concert took place at the Seattle Latvian Center. Band members in ancient Baltic tribal costumes sung ancient war songs and some Midsummer songs, including songs both from Latvian folklore and 20th-century soldier songs. 

Afterwards, the group visited the University of Washington and performed for students taking the Latvian Language, Baltic Cultures, and Introduction to Scandinavia courses. Students especially appreciated the opportunity to see culture in practice.

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