Gifted with a truly memorable voice, Giedrė is an artist perfectly at home across genres, stylishly presenting jazz, electronic, and pop music alike. With the widely known groups Empti and Pieno lazeriai, she has won numerous awards. Today, the artist has returned to the style where her musical journey first began—light electronic music.
On New Year’s Eve, the singer, accompanied by pianist Andrejus Polevikovas, will perform in Paliesius Manor’s Pasaga concert hall—could there be a more perfect place to welcome 2026, the Year of the Horse? The theme of this year’s New Year’s celebration at the Manor is “Crystal New Year.” Giedrė herself promises that her duo with the pianist “will be like crystal for the ears and the soul.”
As we await the celebration, we share a conversation with the singer.
More about the concert: 12.31 | Crystal New Year at Paliesius: GIEDRĖ
– How did you fall in love with music? Did you want to be a singer since childhood?
As far back as I can remember, I always knew I would be a singer. Later came music school and my studies. From my teenage years, I sang in rock bands, later in Empti and Pieno lazeriai, while jazz has always held an important place on my musical path.
– How do new songs come to you? Could you tell us a bit about your creative process?
As cliché as it might sound—I simply sing about what I see. I think I string lyrics together rather well; if my inner etiquette allowed me to just find a rhyme and release it to the listeners, it would be so much easier. However, I am my own harshest critic when it comes to my work. It is incredibly important to me that my music is original, unborrowed, incomparable—and, on top of that, enjoyable to listen to. Finding that balance is quite difficult. But I wouldn’t want it any other way, nor do I know how to do it differently.
– And what kind of music do you most like to listen to yourself?
I listen to new music for work purposes. I really like the singer Raye. And, of course, the music that brings me a sense of nostalgia: Alanis Morissette, Skunk Anansie, Dinah Washington, Aretha Franklin, Jamiroquai.
– You will be performing at Paliesius Manor this New Year’s Eve with pianist Andrejus Polevikovas. Could you tell us about your collaboration?
We met while studying at the Juozas Tallat-Kelpša Conservatory. At the time, I was singing in the group Empti, and later, after a decade or so had passed, Andrejus invited me to sing together in the bossa nova project “Blue in Bossa”, and then in “Džiazo miniatiūros”. Ever since, our duo has been inseparable. We truly feel each other, both on stage and in life. I think it is a luxury for any musician to have such friends on stage.
– What songs have you chosen to perform at Paliesius Manor?
I will be performing my original songs from recent years. Andrejus and I have had very successful concert tours for a couple of years in a row. I believe that on New Year’s Eve at Paliesius Manor, together with Andrejus and the audience, we will create a wonderfully cozy and festive atmosphere.
– What does the New Year mean to you personally? Perhaps you have some special traditions? Or maybe—New Year’s resolutions?
Say what you will, but there is still something undeniably magical about this holiday. Whether we are at home or with friends—that countdown of the final seconds still happens, and a little shiver always runs through you. I want it to stay that way.
As for resolutions—I set them, and they continuously come true for me all year round.
– Perhaps you have a message to share with the audience awaiting you at Paliesius Manor this New Year’s Eve?
Simply come, enjoy, and celebrate!