Lithuanian leaders express condolences over death of renowned choral conductor Romualdas Gražinis

Lithuania’s president, prime minister and parliamentary speaker have extended condolences following the death of Romualdas Gražinis, a celebrated choral conductor and educator, state news agency ELTA reported on Saturday.

President Gitanas Nausėda described Gražinis as a “distinctive figure who made outstanding contributions to Lithuania’s choral culture and sacred music.” The conductor had led and strengthened the country’s choral community for decades, represented Lithuania in international competitions, and mentored generations of singers and conductors, Nausėda said in a statement. He offered condolences to Gražinis’ family, colleagues, and the broader music community.

Prime Minister Ingrida Ruginienė noted that Gražinis’ lifelong creative and pedagogical work had elevated choral culture in Lithuania, making its beauty accessible to wide audiences and students. “I extend my deepest condolences to his loved ones, colleagues, and all those touched by the loss of this eminent figure and his talent,” she said.

Seimas Speaker Juozas Olekas highlighted Gražinis’ lasting impact on Lithuania’s musical heritage, his role in nurturing young musicians, and his dedication to fostering community through music. “We have lost an eminent creator and educator whose life was inseparable from music, fellowship, and the values he passionately passed on to his students and society,” Olekas wrote. “His work and the choral tradition he cultivated will continue to resonate in our culture, and his devotion to music will remain an inspiration for future generations.”

Gražinis, 64, was the father of internationally acclaimed Lithuanian composer Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla. His death was announced on Sunday by his widow, pianist Sigutė Gražinienė, on social media. A graduate of the M.K. Čiurlionis School of Art, Gražinis founded the chamber choir Aidija in 1989 and remained its artistic director. His honours included the Medal of the Order for Merits to Lithuania (2012), the Government Prize for Culture and Art (2013), and the Ministry of Culture’s honorary badge “Carry Your Light and Believe” (2022). In 2025, he received the Ministry of Education’s highest distinction for his exceptional pedagogical achievements and dedication to choral culture.