Interview with Simėnas Fabijonas "The Unstoppable Culture"

Violinist Silvija Vaitkevičiūtė graduated from the National M. K. Čiurlionis School of Art in 2004. Later, Silvija studied in the class of Professor Ingrida Armonaitė-Galinienė at the Lithuanian Academy of Music and Theatre. In 2008–2009, through the Erasmus study program, she studied at the Mozarteum University in Salzburg, Austria, where she refined her skills under Professors Helmut Zehetmair and Lavard Skou-Larsen in violin. From 2010 to 2012, she pursued and obtained a master’s degree at the Leipzig University of Music and Theatre F. Mendelssohn-Bartholdy in Germany, in Professor Friedemann Wezel’s violin class. Silvija has won prizes in international and national competitions and has participated in numerous violin performance master classes. In 2011–2012, she interned with the Leipzig orchestra Mitteldeutscher Rundfunk Sinfonieorchester Leipzig. She has performed as a soloist with the St. Christopher Chamber Orchestra. Currently, Silvija works as an orchestral artist and violin teacher. She actively performs as a soloist in chamber ensembles at various events, including the Christopher Festival, the World Voices music festival, the Kaunas Philharmonic, the Klaipėda Concert Hall, and the Birštonas Cultural Center, alongside pianists Dr. Paulė Gūdinaitė, Jone Punytė, Simona Zajančauskaitė, Milda Umbrusevičiūtė, soprano Dovilė Kazonaitė, and clarinetist Rimvydas Savickas.

Do you think that a violinist shapes the values of society, individuals, and audiences?

A violinist, as a performer and creator, is an artist, and therefore a performer undoubtedly contributes to shaping society's values. Art, in general, has one of the greatest impacts on personal growth, educational level, and fostering humanity. Thus, art is especially important for society. Art is a form of expression where the listener can fulfill their need for understanding, experiencing emotions, gaining impressions, and even finding rest. All this enriches a person as an individual. Additionally, it's essential for a performer to build a connection with the audience, to move them with their music, and leave memorable impressions. If a performer succeeds in this, they inevitably have a profound impact on shaping the values of society and individuals.

What does Lithuanian identity mean to you?

I am Lithuanian, so Lithuania has always been and still is my true home. Even while studying in Austria and Germany, I always felt connected to Lithuania and missed my homeland. Language, history, national traditions, and the sense of unity with other Lithuanians are essential to identity. My homeland is precious and irreplaceable, though, as a nation, we still have many things to resolve and grow further as a society. Being Lithuanian is an unchangeable part of who I am.

What piece or musical motif resonates in the depths of your soul at the moment?

Recently, I’ve been hearing in my mind J. Brahms's Violin Sonata No. 3, Op. 108, and Symphony No. 1, Op. 68. I have been living with the melodies and harmonies of these pieces for the past couple of weeks.

Which piece would you like to perform right now, and why?

There are so many wonderful pieces I would like to perform. The violin repertoire is vast. Currently, I am playing pieces I will perform at an upcoming concert at the summer music festival "Musical Fridays" at Gelgaudiškis Manor with pianist Egle Kižyte-Ramoniene. These include Spanish Dances for violin and piano, Op. 37 by Enrique Granados, and the concert rhapsody Tzigane for violin and piano by Maurice Ravel, among others.

Which artist inspires you and why?

In general, I am inspired by sincere, emotionally warm people who are loyal to their inner values and open to collaboration. So, I am inspired by artists who possess these personal qualities. I don't appreciate insincere, egocentric people. I wouldn't single out one particular person who inspires me the most because I am fascinated and inspired by many talented artists.

What does culture mean to you?

For me, culture is a broad concept encompassing many directions. Culture is what enriches people spiritually and makes them more “humane.”

What can you say about the city you live in? How would you like it to be?

Vilnius, where I live, has been my home since childhood. I was born and raised in this city, so I feel at home in Vilnius. This city is dear and cozy to me. I am happy to see that Vilnius is constantly renewing and evolving.

What is the funniest situation you remember from your violin performance studies?

During my violin performance studies, I had plenty of interactions with both professors and fellow students, so there were indeed many amusing moments. At the University of Music and Theatre F. Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, I had classes with a contemporary music professor with a great sense of humor, with whom we always had something to laugh about together.

What thoughts came to you when the war in Ukraine began?

I was deeply shaken when the war in Ukraine started. The news was completely unexpected for me. At first, it was hard to believe, and there were many negative emotions. It's hard to comprehend the hardships the people of Ukraine face when loved ones are lost, and homes are destroyed. I fully support the people of Ukraine and sincerely hope they succeed in defending themselves.

Do you follow artists’ statements on the "[Un]stoppable Culture" Facebook and Instagram pages? Does it motivate you?

Yes, I have noticed this initiative and wholeheartedly support this project. It's wonderful that cultural figures are supported and given the opportunity to share their thoughts. Thank you for this interview.