In 1985/1986, after the initiative of Roberts Zuika, co-operation among several Latvian men’s choirs started in Midwest America. Nowadays, every spring they give a concert as a joint choir, which includes Chicago men’s choir (conductor Mara Varpa), Kalamazoo men’s choir (conductors Roberts Zuika and Monika Daukste – Strautniece), Milwaukee men’s choir (conductor Ernests Brusubardis III), Cleveland men’s ensemble TEVZEME (conductor Andris Udris).
American Latvian joint men’s choir has participated in the Latvia Song Festivals of 1990, 1993 and 1998.
In 1990, Roberts Zuika invited Toronto (Canada) men’s choir VIESTURS (conductor Vizma Maksina), Boston City double quartet TEVIJA (conductor J. Ansbergs), as well as separate singers from other places of USA and Canada to join their choir, which was then given a name - American Latvian joint men’s choir KALEJS.
On everyday basis, choirs work independently and give concerts in their own towns, whereas in the song festivals of Canada and USA, they come together and perform as a joint choir.
Lately, activities of American Latvian joint men’s choir have slowed down. Toronto men’s choir VIESTURS and Milwaukee men’s choir have stopped to exist, whereas Chicago men’s choir and Kalamazoo men’s choir are giving concerts in Midwest America.
In the Song Festival Riga 800, American Latvian joint men’s choir will be represented by Chicago men’s choir and two representatives of Kalamazoo men’s choir.