What are some of Rihards Zalupe’s favorite Latvian instrumental artists?

archyde Exclusive: A Conversation with Gamma award Winner Rihards zalupe on Music adn Emotion

Latvian composer Rihards Zalupe recently took home a Gamma Award for his instrumental compositions—a testament to his captivating soundscapes. We sat down with Rihards to discuss his creative process, his work on the game ‘Flow,’ and how personal experiences shape his music.

from ‘Flow’ to Feelings: An Interview with Rihards Zalupe

archyde’s Leanne Kalniete: Rihards,congratulations on yoru Gamma Award! How does it feel to be recognized among Latvia’s top musical talents?

Rihards Zalupe: Thank you,Leanne! It’s a tremendous honor,especially considering the wealth of incredible musical talent in Latvia. The Gamma Awards are a fantastic showcase of our diverse music scene, and I’m truly humbled to be a part of it.

Leanne Kalniete: Your instrumental work stands out, particularly your compositions for the game ‘flow.’ Can you tell us more about your approach to creating music for video games?

Rihards Zalupe: With ‘Flow,’ the goal was to create an immersive and emotionally resonant experience. I focused on crafting melodies that mirrored the game’s narrative and character interactions. The music needed to enhance the emotional impact, especially surrounding the animals in the game.

Leanne kalniete: You mentioned that personal experiences influence your music. We understand you’ve experienced a recent loss. How has that impacted your creative process?

Rihards Zalupe: Losing my dog two years ago was profoundly arduous. That experience opened up new avenues for emotional exploration in my compositions. Grief, love, and memory – these are all complex emotions that I now find myself trying to express through my music. It’s a way of processing and honoring those feelings.

the Gamma Jury: A Validation of Latvian Music

Leanne Kalniete: The Gamma Awards are judged by a diverse panel of musicians,industry professionals,and music enthusiasts. How critically important is this kind of recognition from your peers?

Rihards Zalupe: The “Gamma Jury,” as they’re called, are absolutely vital!. Knowing my work resonated with such a broad range of experts and “Melomaniaci” – including those from Lithuania and Estonia – is incredibly validating. It encourages me to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Instrumental Music

Leanne Kalniete: The Gamma Awards aim to foster creativity and innovation within the Latvian music industry. What are your hopes for the future of instrumental music in Latvia?

Rihards Zalupe: I hope to see even more opportunities and platforms for instrumental music to thrive. Latvians are passionate about music (“Mūzikas mīļotāji” in Latvian), and there’s a growing gratitude for the nuances and artistry of instrumental compositions. My hope is that the Gamma Awards and similar initiatives continue to empower talented individuals to come forward.

Leanne Kalniete: Rihards, what message would you like to share with aspiring musicians?

Rihards Zalupe: Stay true to your vision, embrace experimentation, and never underestimate the power of your unique voice.Music is a language that transcends borders and speaks to the soul. Keep creating, keep sharing, and keep inspiring.

Leanne Kalniete: Rihards, thank you for your time and insights. Congratulations again on your well-deserved Gamma Award!

Rihards Zalupe: Thank you, Leanne. It was a pleasure.

What are your favorite Latvian instrumental artists? Share them in the comments below!