Estonia Culture Music
Music
In order to understand Estonian musical culture, it is essential to recognise the role of singing in the formation of Estonian statehood. During the second half of the 19th century, village choirs were the main form of social communication, and later on these led to the development of societies that were essential to the independence of the Republic of Estonia. These roots in choral music can be seen in the Song Festival that has been held every five years for the past 130 years. In 2009, there were more than 26,000 participants performing to an audience of 80,000 people.
Arvo Pärt, Paavo and Neeme Järvi, Tõnu Kaljuste, Veljo Tormis, Erkki-Sven Tüür, Eri Klas, Olari Elts, Urmas Sisask… these Estonian names are known to musicians and music lovers in many parts of the world, either from listening to their music or from watching them conduct the best orchestras in musical Meccas. The musical cooperation between Estonia and Finland has founded a large orchestra called the Estonian-Finnish Symphony Orchestra which has produced several CDs and held many theme concerts.
Concerning pop music, some singers who enjoyed popularity throughout the Soviet Union are still popular. One of the most noteworthy of these is Tõnis Mägi who is still writing and singing in his original powerful style. The increased self-confidence of Estonian pop-music can be seen in the desire to sing in Estonian as much as in English. Apart from rock&roll, hiphop (with artists such as Toe Tag and Chalice) is also popular. Students often prefer the intellectual style of the music by Dagö, Singer-Vinger and Genialistid who are known for their sophisticated and witty texts and musical ideas.
The musical calendar in Estonia is vibrant and full of annual events. These include the Jazzkaar festival in spring which tends to transcend the boundaries of jazz music (crossing into ethnic music), the NYYD festival which presents 20th century experimental music and the summer Viljandi Folk Music Festival which has a good atmosphere and excellent performers.
