Jānis Kade

1858–1923
Conductor, organist, composer, educator

A member of the most active group of Latvian musicians at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century.

Born on 26 August 1858 at the Pienavas homestead, Dzūkste Parish Jelgava District. Educated at the Irlava Teachers’ Seminary, was a teacher at the seminary (1882-1902) and the founder of the Irlava male choir. Participated in the IIIrd and IVth Song Festivals with this choir, gaining prizes. Furthered his pedagogical knowledge in Germany.

In 1888, was elected a member of the Rīga Latvian Society’s Music Committee. In 1902, appointed director at the city children’s shelter No 1 and played organ at the Lutheran Church of Jesus.

Participated in the organisation of the IIIrd Song Festival, was a chief conductor at the IVth All-Latvian Song Festival, and also participated in the Vth Song Festival choir-competition jury. His compositions were performed at the IIIrd, IVth and Vth Song Festivals.