Latvia Post is releasing a new postage stamp in honor of the opera Baņuta staged by composer Alfrēds Kalniņs (1879–1951), as this year marks the 100th anniversary of its premiere at the Latvian National Opera. The item features a photo from the first act of the opera Baņuta (1920) stored in the archives of the Latvian National Opera and Ballet. The issue has been designed by the artist Lilija Dinere.
The date May 29, 1920, is significant in Latvian music history. On this day was the premiere of the first Latvian opera Baņuta. The composer of this opera is Alfrēds Kalniņš (1879–1951). Like many other nations and national music history since the 19th century, Kalniņš opera Baņuta is also based on the imaginary ancient events of the past, which also includes some elements of national mythology and reflects several trends in the style of late Romanticism. Nowadays, Baņuta is considered a symbol of Latvian classical music.
See also other stamps on music.
