Julijus Girdenis and Vytautas Straižys Jazz Quartet

On October 15, the Downtown Piano Lab stage will host guitarist Julijus Girdenis, one of the most phenomenal performers of Lithuania’s young jazz generation. It is not only his age that impresses, but also his musical maturity, technical freedom, and profound understanding of the language of jazz. Julijus plays as if he had spent decades on stage: boldly, sensitively, confidently, and with a distinctive musical character. He is an artist worth hearing now—at the very beginning of a great musical story. We have no doubt: this musician is destined to become a true legend.

Joining Julijus on stage will be the Vytautas Straižys Jazz Quartet. Pianist, arranger, and Downtown Piano Lab founder Vytautas Straižys is distinguished by his exceptional musical sensitivity and his ability to craft arrangements right there on stage. Providing a solid foundation and a vibrant pulse for the quartet’s sound is double bassist Aliaksey Kryshtal, who brings international concert experience, while the versatile young-generation musician Jonas Filmanavičius takes his place at the drums.

Four performers. One stage. A living musical language where listening, spontaneity, and the genuine thrill of jazz take center stage. Performers:

Julijus Girdenis – guitar
Vytautas Straižys – piano
Aliaksey Kryshtal – double bass
Jonas Filmanavičius – drums

The Dainykla project is partially funded by Vilnius City Municipality.