Medins Valse for Double Bass and Piano

Janis Medins (1890-1973), one of the more famous Latvian composers of his generation, was born in Riga. In 1920 he was appointed conductor of the Lettish National Opera at Riga and Professor of Instrumentation at the Riga Conservatory. His works include symphonic poems, symphonies, and operas. His Concerto in B Minor for Cello and Orchestra has been recorded by Ingus Naruns, the Latvian- American cellist and the London Philharmonic.

This Valse was composed by Jacob Medins, Janis' brother. Jacob Medins was the oldest of three brothers - all of whom were active Latvian musicians. Jacob Medins was a pupil of Professor Jazeps Vitols, whose neo-classic romantic style influenced a generation of Latvian composers.