Latvian conductor and music pedagogue Janis Zirnis has died at the age of 79. He was assistant to the chief conductor and second conductor of the Latvian Radio Symphony Orchestra (1980–1984), as well as chief choirmaster (1987–1989) and conductor (1989–2004) of the Latvian National Opera. He taught at the Jazeps Vitolas Academy of Music of Latvia since 1977.