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IMANTS KALNIŅŠ may definitely already be named among the most prominent Latvian composers of all times. His style is instantly recognizable no matter which side of his surprisingly manifold creative genius you have experienced - be it a symphony, oratorio, opera, music for theatre and films or Rock’n’Roll. Melodies you never forget, melodies that make you lose yourself in meditation - all by yourself or side by side with others.
It is most unlikely that a Latvian could be found who wouldn’t be able to sing at least a single musical phrase written by IMANTS KALNIŅŠ. The most impressive proof of public love and appreciation is the annual Imantdienas concert that bring together thousands of people from all over the country.
Music written by IMANTS KALNIŅŠ has won international acclaim as well. His soundtrack for Pūt, vējiņi! (Blow Ye Wind) movie was awarded Grand Prix at the Moscow International Film Festival in 1976.
World famous orchestras have performed symphonic music by IMANTS KALNIŅŠ:
Symphony No 2 has been performed by the St.Petersburg Y.Mravinski Symphonic Orchestra,
Symphony No 5 - by the Boston Symphonic Orchestra,
Symphony No 4 - by the Detroit Symphonic Orchestra conducted by N. Yervi.
His 1^st album ever released has become one of the best-selling Latvian records of all times. The 1997 album Par lietām, kuras tā ar nekad nepāriet (Of Things That Never Really Pass) published by UPE Recording Company has repeated and surpassed this success - it has become a Latvian cult album. IMANTS KALNIŅŠ was also awarded the 1997 National Music Prize for the above mentioned compilation of songs and for his Symphony No 4, the REAL, original version of which was performed for the first time in Latvia by the Liepāja Symphonic Orchestra. The truth is that IMANTS KALNIŅŠ has long since become a live classic of Latvian music. We dare you to find somebody who thinks otherwise!