MUSIC
SPIRITS
for flute, viola and harp
The piece was inspired by Veļu laiks, an element of Latvian mythology which is a period of time in late fall when souls of departed loved ones come back to earth to visit their former homes.
CAN OF WORMS
for soprano and piano
This art song is a contemplation on how dealing with mental illness can feel like “opening a can of worms”. The relentless energy, coming from the
allusions of Rameau’s “The Hen” remind about the harsh journey towards acceptance of
one’s condition.
AS A LILLY AMONG THORNS
for SSAATTBB choir
Text from Solomon's "Song of Songs" :
As the lily among thorns, so is my love among the daughters.
As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved among the sons. I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste.
He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love.
Stay me with flagons, comfort me with apples: for I am sick of love.
TRANSPARENCIES
for string orchestra
This work is greatly inspired by the paintings of Francis Picabia (1879-1953), most specifically, his “Villica safe”(1929), a part of his transparencies series. This piece explores several elements of "Villica safe" ; the clashing blues and yellows, eerie silhouettes, contours, menacing gazes and everything else that ultimatelt gives way to the canvas’ yellow exuberance.
LAIKA DZIESMA/ CANTICLE OF TIME
for SSAATTBB choir and occarinas
This piece employs Latvian folk song text that portrays experiences of grief and loss of one's mother through the eyes of a young orphan girl.
IMESSAGE
for soprano and piano
Spam emails/texts and calls are a beloved source of text in LÄ«va's work. This recitativo features one of many lengthy bread orders LÄ«va received between 2019 and 2021.