Born in 1932. Lithuania. Graduate of Vilnius Conservatory. Music Professor, Musical Academy. Author of numerous books on Lithuanian composer Mikalojus Konstantinas Čiurlionis. Elected to Initiative Group of Lithuanian Reform Movement Sąjūdis striving to liberate Lithuania from Soviet occupation, June 3, 1988. Deputy in the USSR People’s Deputies Congress (1989-1990). Following first democratic election to Supreme Council of Lithuania, February 24, 1990, elected March 11, 1990 to lead the Council as its President and serve as Head of State. Presided over the session of Parliament which that day proclaimed restoration of independent Republic of Lithuania. Elected member of Seimas (parliament), 1992. Chairman of Seimas (1996-2000). Chairman of the Homeland Union (1993-2004). MEP since 2004.