Join us for this momentus occasion! This event features a 60-minute solo concert by renowned pianist Kristjan Randalu and is open to the public. Armas will be in attendance and cake, of course, will be served.

6:30 PM DOORS

7:00 PM CONCERT

Reception will follow.

*parking is free, but a parking pass must be obtained inside the church

**Tickets can only be purchased at the door in cash, exact change is required ($40/$30)

Armas Maiste

Maiste, Armas or Art (b Armas). Pianist, born Tallinn, Estonia, 9 Mar 1929, naturalized Canadian 1965; B MUS (McGill) 1972. After early study at the State Academy of Music in Estonia and six years at the State Academy in Stockholm (where he developed his interest in jazz), Maiste moved to Montreal in 1950. There, until 1983, his career included nightclub engagements as a soloist and as an accompanist to Sammy Davis, Jr, Joyce Hahn (to whom he was married during the mid-1950s), Carmen Miranda, and others, as well as concert, radio, and TV performances in classical, contemporary music, jazz, and variety programs. He served 1958-83 as the orchestral pianist with the MSO and continued to appear until 1986 on the orchestra's recordings.

Maiste appeared at the 1971 Montreux Jazz Festival, at the 1973 EBU-sponsored festival in Oslo, and, as a member of the RCI-sponsored 'All-Star Jazz Sextet,' at the 1979 Bracknell, North Sea, and Montreux jazz festivals. He taught 1974-83 at McGill University and then took a position at Humber College in Toronto in 1984. He has also taught at the RCMT. His pupils have included the jazz pianists Luc Beaugrand, James Gelfand, Steve Holt, and Dave Restivo. Clearly a musician of remarkable versatility, Maiste has demonstrated his stylistic proficiency and technical assurance on the LPs Bach and the Blues and Pianostyles. For the latter he played in the manner of jazz pianists as diverse as James P. Johnson, Bud Powell, Erroll Garner, and Bill Evans.

Kristjan Randalu

Kristjan Randalu belongs to the most sought-after piano players of his generation, carrying the torch in both the improvised world of jazz and the traditional realm of classical music – Herbie Hancock has called him “a dazzling piano player”. Between creating his own original blend of contemporary jazz as a leader and collaborating with several generations of respected musicians, from the likes of fellow ECM recording artist Trygve Seim to saxophonist David Liebman, Randalu has brought his music to some of the world’s most renowned jazz festivals and concert halls. At the same time, he is viewed as an esteemed interpreter of a broad spectrum of contemporary and classical music, performing alongside internationally acclaimed orchestras and conductors.

Born in Estonia’s capital Tallinn to pianist parents in 1978, Randalu and his family soon moved to Germany where he began studying piano in Karlsruhe and Cologne before graduating from the Stuttgart Music University. His studies would later bring him to the Royal Academy of Music in London as well as the Manhattan School of Music, attaining an additional master’s degree and exposing him to respected teachers such as John Taylor, Django Bates and Kenny Barron, among many others.

Hear renowned Estonian pianist Kristjan Randalu perform “Dichterliebe” (Robert Schumann (1810-1856) / Kristjan Randalu (1978) “Dichterliebe” op. 48 (1840) / (2020)).

70 minute solo piano concert, no intermission.

Doors 1:15PM

The Dichterliebe song cycle, Op. 48 (1840), might be Robert Schumann’s most celebrated cycle of Lieder and, following Franz Schubert’s earlier cycles Die Schöne Müllerin (1823) and Winterreise (1828), constitutes part of the central core of the genre in musical literature. Based on German poet Heinrich Heine’s Lyrisches Intermezzo, a 65-poems spanning collection first published in 1823, Dichterliebe in a way even represents the epitome of romantic poetry set to music. Both, Heine and Schumann, were progressive spirits who bent genres and rewrote the rules of their crafts. Therefore, it only seems right that Estonia-born pianist Kristjan Randalu, a forward-thinking mind in today’s contemporary music world, would do his part in bending genres by tackling this song cycle and updating its structure and vocabulary with the language of the 21st Century.

Throughout his lifetime, Schumann had occasionally been a frustrated pianist, surrounded by peers who didn’t believe in his future as a truly successful piano player. Not to mention the competition of his talented pianist wife Clara Schumann, who’d play a significant role in making her husband’s piano work famous. Consequently, and arguably in an effort to prove himself, Schumann’s pianistic ambitions pervade Dichterliebe in the form of intricate left-hand accompaniment, rapid sequencings over all octaves and a general tendency towards demonstrating technical virtuosity, without omitting the occasional thematic nod to his idols, Franz Schubert and Ludwig van Beethoven – two other masters of the German Lied form. In his recasting of Dichterliebe, Kristjan Randalu picks up on this virtuoso aspect of Schumann’s piano scores and recognizes their stand-alone potential by leaving out the lyrics. Instead, his brisk movements across the keys imply the vocal lines and lyrical ideas that originally formed Schumann’s compositions and expand on the songs’ architectural foundations.

“The abstract element of music without words has always fascinated me and these songs have accompanied me for years”, explains Randalu, adding: “My vision to re- interpret the cycle was through the musical language at which I have arrived today. The new versions were mostly initiated by specific melodic, harmonic and rhythmic elements, providing the starting point for entirely new explorations.”

Like jazz piano heavy-weight Keith Jarrett, to whose illustrious improvisational treatment of classical forms Randalu’s conceptions here occasionally bear resemblance, the Estonian pianist’s earliest training on piano was classical and he’s kept his relationship to classical music close throughout his career – performing with celebrated conductors like Dennis Russell Davies and esteemed ensembles such as the London Symphony Orchestra in some of the world’s most acclaimed concert halls. But his first contact with Schumann’s Dichterliebe was already established in the ‘90s, when he was still a student, actively playing in a Lied-duo with a baritone and Dichterliebe being an important part of their repertoire.

“In our lessons and rehearsals, we focused on every little detail – how the music amplifies nuances in the lyrics or how the composer adds multiple layers to the meaning of the text with harmonic and melodic movements. The aesthetic of classical singing has a long tradition, developed over centuries. To me the essence of it is rather contrasting to the possibilities of expression in jazz, where things are more immediate, individual, not necessarily polished to meet a certain standard but instead reflect our surroundings here and now.”

There’s no doubt the here and now is mirrored in Randalu’s reinterpretations. In his substantial reworkings of the Dichterliebe cycle, the pianist washes over the keys in emotive displays of masterful craftsmanship. Founded in a broad understanding for classical piano tradition, Randalu’s variations provide a strictly contemporary vision that elaborates on Schumann’s romantic notions with impressionist design, vast improvisational liberties and the spontaneity and harmonic breadth of jazz. The number of thematic threads and the profound spectrum of melodic nuance Randalu is able to extract from this cornerstone of Romantic piano music is remarkable, making this project a unique endeavor with one foot in the shape-shifting present and the other firmly rooted in the tradition.

Hear renowned Estonian pianist Kristjan Randalu perform “Dichterliebe” (Robert Schumann (1810-1856) / Kristjan Randalu (1978) “Dichterliebe” op. 48 (1840) / (2020)).

Doors 6:30PM

70 minute solo piano concert, no intermission.

Cash bar.

The Dichterliebe song cycle, Op. 48 (1840), might be Robert Schumann’s most celebrated cycle of Lieder and, following Franz Schubert’s earlier cycles Die Schöne Müllerin (1823) and Winterreise (1828), constitutes part of the central core of the genre in musical literature. Based on German poet Heinrich Heine’s Lyrisches Intermezzo, a 65-poems spanning collection first published in 1823, Dichterliebe in a way even represents the epitome of romantic poetry set to music. Both, Heine and Schumann, were progressive spirits who bent genres and rewrote the rules of their crafts. Therefore, it only seems right that Estonia-born pianist Kristjan Randalu, a forward-thinking mind in today’s contemporary music world, would do his part in bending genres by tackling this song cycle and updating its structure and vocabulary with the language of the 21st Century.

Throughout his lifetime, Schumann had occasionally been a frustrated pianist, surrounded by peers who didn’t believe in his future as a truly successful piano player. Not to mention the competition of his talented pianist wife Clara Schumann, who’d play a significant role in making her husband’s piano work famous. Consequently, and arguably in an effort to prove himself, Schumann’s pianistic ambitions pervade Dichterliebe in the form of intricate left-hand accompaniment, rapid sequencings over all octaves and a general tendency towards demonstrating technical virtuosity, without omitting the occasional thematic nod to his idols, Franz Schubert and Ludwig van Beethoven – two other masters of the German Lied form. In his recasting of Dichterliebe, Kristjan Randalu picks up on this virtuoso aspect of Schumann’s piano scores and recognizes their stand-alone potential by leaving out the lyrics. Instead, his brisk movements across the keys imply the vocal lines and lyrical ideas that originally formed Schumann’s compositions and expand on the songs’ architectural foundations.

“The abstract element of music without words has always fascinated me and these songs have accompanied me for years”, explains Randalu, adding: “My vision to re- interpret the cycle was through the musical language at which I have arrived today. The new versions were mostly initiated by specific melodic, harmonic and rhythmic elements, providing the starting point for entirely new explorations.”

Like jazz piano heavy-weight Keith Jarrett, to whose illustrious improvisational treatment of classical forms Randalu’s conceptions here occasionally bear resemblance, the Estonian pianist’s earliest training on piano was classical and he’s kept his relationship to classical music close throughout his career – performing with celebrated conductors like Dennis Russell Davies and esteemed ensembles such as the London Symphony Orchestra in some of the world’s most acclaimed concert halls. But his first contact with Schumann’s Dichterliebe was already established in the ‘90s, when he was still a student, actively playing in a Lied-duo with a baritone and Dichterliebe being an important part of their repertoire.

“In our lessons and rehearsals, we focused on every little detail – how the music amplifies nuances in the lyrics or how the composer adds multiple layers to the meaning of the text with harmonic and melodic movements. The aesthetic of classical singing has a long tradition, developed over centuries. To me the essence of it is rather contrasting to the possibilities of expression in jazz, where things are more immediate, individual, not necessarily polished to meet a certain standard but instead reflect our surroundings here and now.”

There’s no doubt the here and now is mirrored in Randalu’s reinterpretations. In his substantial reworkings of the Dichterliebe cycle, the pianist washes over the keys in emotive displays of masterful craftsmanship. Founded in a broad understanding for classical piano tradition, Randalu’s variations provide a strictly contemporary vision that elaborates on Schumann’s romantic notions with impressionist design, vast improvisational liberties and the spontaneity and harmonic breadth of jazz. The number of thematic threads and the profound spectrum of melodic nuance Randalu is able to extract from this cornerstone of Romantic piano music is remarkable, making this project a unique endeavor with one foot in the shape-shifting present and the other firmly rooted in the tradition.

Join in for an evening of soulful and mellow melodies!

What can you expect to hear at the concert? Kasar himself describes it as a “best-of” of his repertoire over the years; a delightful, musical hodgepodge. It’ll be an in-depth, intimate exploration of his collection of catchy melodies and lyrics.

Who is Jarek Kasar?

Jarek Kasar, also known as Chalice, is from Tartu. He began his music career as a rapper and has evolved into a multi-faceted, unique and captivating performer over the years. His musical journey has taken him into genre-crossing, new sonic territory; from experimental, eclectic compositions which draw on musical traditions from around the world, such as African traditional music, all the way to contemporary electronic rock.

His song “Minu inimesed” (My People), which premiered at the Estonian Independence Day ceremony in 2006, was declared by Postimees newspaper as the secondary ceremonial speech in addition to the president’s speech. This deeply touching piece was sung by thousands at the 2007 10th Youth Song Festival.

Listen to Jarek Kasar on Spotify.

Meet Estonia’s ascending pop star ALIKA! The evening will kick off with a Q&A with the artists, where she will dish out all the Eurovision gossip, tell us what motivates her as a creator and what life is like in the fast lane. This will be followed by an intimate unplugged-style concert, where you’ll experience a different side of ALIKA’s pop anthems.

ALIKA is a rising pop artist and powerhouse vocalist from Estonia. She is the winner of the 8th Estonian Idol and she represented Estonia at Eurovision 2023. Her power ballad "Bridges", which was co-written by internationally acclaimed producer Wouter Hardy (known for co-writing Duncan Lawrence’s “Arcade”), brought Estonia 8th place in the competition, with her vocals and strong live performance earning her international praise. Alika received 5 awards at the Estonian Music Awards 2024: Artist, Female Artist, Debut Album, Album and Song of the Year.

ALIKA has been performing since she was a child and has successfully competed in various singing competitions throughout her career, such as The Baltic Voice, New Wave Junior, Kaunas Talent, and Berlin Perle.

She is currently signed to Universal Music and has released numerous singles, like Bon Appetit, C'est la Vie, You, Too Much and Õde ütles, which have charted on local radio stations. Most recently, she released her debut album titled ALIKA which features 13 songs in English, Estonian, Russian and Ukrainian spanning genres from rock to pop to ballads.

An evening of folk tunes with diatonic accordionist Kert Krüsban, named "Best solo musician in Estonia of 2022"

Back in 2005, Kert found his passion for playing diatonic accordion and learned his first tips from Lahemaa Rahwamuusikud, which is a folk group from his home country. He finished his studies in “Traditional Music” and majored in Estonian diatonic accordion at Heino Eller Tartu Music College in 2019. Three years later, Kert was given the title of “Vabariigi pillimees” (“Best solo musician in Estonia”) by the President of Estonia. So what can you expect when you come to his performances in Toronto? You’ll hear his original songs, Estonian folk tunes, and maybe even a bit of Canadian folk thrown into the mix.

The event is hosted in Estonian.

Tickets $20/$15 for students

BLOK presents LEMON BUCKET + SVJATA VATRA + POLKY + DJ MCHI in collaboration with ESTONIAN MUSIC WEEK

February 11th marks BLOK Music Festival’s triumphant return with a all-star line-up of east-euro bands celebrating freedom and culture under peaceful skies at Toronto's legendary Opera House.

Special guest of the night: Estonian-Ukrainian alt-folk band SVJATA VATRA, flying directly from Tallinn for the show. They're been leading Baltic support of Ukraine both culturally and financially since the beginning of the war, but have been exploring the intersection of Estonian and Ukrainian traditions for over a decade since frontman Ruslan Trochynskyj left famous Ukrainian band Haydamaky to live in Estonia.

Also with us, guerrilla-folk party-punks Lemon Bucket Orkestra, still high off their recent performance with Eugene Hutz of Gogol Bordello and ready to return to their home venue of the Opera House.

Polky will add their neo-village approach to Polish and Ukrainian folk music to the mix. You might have caught them recently playing in the Eaton Centre for thousands of unsuspecting Christmas shoppers, but you're gonna want to hear them on the Opera House's brand new system.

And DJ McHi will fill in the gaps with a fresh set of Ukrainian dub remixes featuring Dakha Brakha, Balaklava Blues, GO_A, and Kalush Orchestra.

Buy Tickets

$30 early bird (until January 23)

$40 presale

$50 door

Presented by BLOK collaboration with Estonian Music Week and Canadian Heritage.

Needing a pick me up on these grey, dreary days?

Come shake off the winter blues with us at this energy-packed, folk-punk filled night of great music and good times! Tear up the floor with those fresh, new moves you picked up and prepare yourselves for a blast of Cossack Viking folk rock by Ukrainian-Estonian powerhouse Svjata Vatra. Grab your friends and check it out, you won’t want to miss it… catch you there!

PWYC (Pay-What-You-Can), at the door

Svjata Vatra

Ukrainian-Estonian Svjata Vatra (“Holy Fire”) plays folk music based on traditional songs, nostalgic children’s games and Baltic melodies, with a fresh punk attitude.

Svjata Vatra has been exploring the intersection of Estonian and Ukrainian traditions for over a decade since the frontman Ruslan Trochynskyj left the famous Ukrainian band Haydamaky to live in Estonia. The band has been leading Baltic support of Ukraine both culturally and financially since the beginning of the war.

Let us know you’re planning to attend and RSVP on Facebook.

Presented by VEMU/Estonian Museum Canada, EMW and Cotton Factory.

Itching to get those feet moving? Needing a pick me up on these dark winter nights? Join in a night of great music and dancing with tantalizing and "hypnotic" trance dance folk music group Hypnosis Negative! The duo explores the roots of dance in their modern original interpretations of international and traditional repetitive dance music with inherent trance-like “hypnotic” listening and movement qualities. The night starts with a traditional folk dance workshop for those that are wanting to brush up on their moves, followed by a performance by the duo where you can show off those new skills featuring local folk dance group Kungla helping get those feet moving. Time to put your best foot forward… see you there!

Hypnosis Negative

Hypnosis Negative, the sensation of being turned inside out from dancing, chasing your own feet across a creaking wooden floor, music that started before you can remember and shows no sign of stopping. A new collaboration between Estonian flutist Katariina Tirmaste and Canadian violinist Robert Alan Mackie, Hypnosis Negative interprets a punchy repertoire of traditional music inspired by a dance that has spilled over its supposed end time and descended deep into the night.

Their debut album “Three Corners” features 10 tracks of traditional tunes, primarily from Estonia and the southeast United States, reimagined for modern partner dancing. Tirmaste and Mackie have experienced firsthand the psychedelic experience available to musicians and dancers alike when a single tune is played for an extended time – the music on “Three Corners” dreams of condensing this experience into concise arrangements the colour of poppies and the texture of sparkling water. “Three Corners” guest features Spanish percussionist Juan de la Fuente Alcón crafting aggressive, earthy grooves and head-spinning textures.

DOORS: 6:30 PM // SHOW: 7 PM

Cash bar, coffee and refreshments

Presented by: VEMU/Estonian Museum Canada, Estonian Music Week

$25 general admission

Top Funk bands Shuffle Demons (Toronto) and Lexsoul Dancemachine (Estonia) celebrate Toronto Estonian Community Landmark, Tartu College’s 50th Anniversary!

Tartu College (Toronto), student residence and community hub of Estonians in Canada, turned 50 in 2020 and it’s finally time to celebrate! There’s no better way to mark the occasion than with an all-out dance party, so we called in the experts: Estonia’s eminent funksters Lexsoul Dancemachine and Toronto’s legendary party-starters the Shuffle Demons. While this is the first ever visit for Lexsoul Dancemachine to Canada, the Shuffle Demons performed their hit Spadina Bus in Estonia in 1991, days before the country was granted its independence. Lexsoul Dancemachine also share a love of public transport, performing atop a moving bus for 3.5 hours in Tallinn. Both bands have a reputation for captivating stage shows all the way down to their matching splashy attire. Estonian singer-songwriter, music historian and champion Vaiko Eplik will not only host the evening but will be performing a crash course of Estonian music history both in Canada and at home. Tartu College is home to a student residence, a community newspaper, a museum, multiple academic organisations and rich cultural programming. Whether you’re a Tartu College regular, or never heard of it, as long as you like to move your feet - you’re invited!

Lexsoul Dancemachine (Estonia)

Raw street funk on one side, sweet soul on the flipside - Lexsoul Dancemachine is known for tearing venues apart with their merciless stage presence and captivating energy. Active since 2013, the aim of the machine is to hypnotize feel-good music lovers with thumping bass lines, syncopated rhythms, repetitive grooves and soulful vocals. It’s the kind of music you can break dance to, although in between those hard-hitting sounds you’ll find some more tender grooves.

The raw funk beast shines first and foremost in a sweaty live setting. They’ve yet to leave a crowd unfazed as evident from the first UK tour in February 2017 when the Dancemachine made people stomp their feet in London, Bristol, Manchester and Leeds. Among the dates was a sold-out evening at the iconic Band on the Wall venue during the Craig Charles Funk and Soul Club evening. 

The Shuffle Demons (Toronto)

The Shuffle Demons are a high-energy Canadian band that blends virtuosic jazz and funk playing with eye-catching costumes and over the top stage antics to produce an incredible show. 

The Shuffle Demons first broke onto the Canadian music scene with an electrifying musical fusion that drew in equal measure from Sun Ra, Charles Mingus, Run DMC and the Beastie Boys. The band was one of the first indie acts to break out on MuchMusic. This band was genre bending, highly visually entertaining, funny, and best of all, could really PLAY. All their eye catching, crowd pleasing stunts were backed up by incredibly solid musicianship and real ground-breaking playing. 

Vaiko Eplik (Estonia)

Vaiko Eplik is an independent Estonian pop-composer, producer, singer and multi-instrumentalist. A diverse variety of influences includes artists and composers from Beach Boys to Stevie Wonder and J.S. Bach to Frank Zappa.

Over the course of  his two decade musical career, Vaiko Eplik – a songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer, music champion and living legend of the current generation of Estonian pop music – has played in groups such as Claire’s Birthday, Ruffus, Koer and Mammut, Eliit, released 21 albums, produced music for many other artists and written a couple of thousand songs.

Presented by: Estonian Museum Canada/VEMU, Tartu College and Estonian Music Week

Major funding: The Estonian Foundation of Canada

Lead sponsor: Northern Birch Credit Union.

All aboard the *new* Spadina bus: funk bands Lexsoul Dancemachine (Estonia) and the Shuffle Demons (Toronto) are teaming up to give free concerts around Toronto from the top of a SightSeeing double decker bus. The *not so secret* locations throughout Toronto will be revealed via our social media and website, no tickets necessary just bring your dancing shoes. 

A lucky group of people will get to ride on the bus with the bands and get a VIP experience. Hosts Jaymz Bee and Branko are sure to keep the party rolling and each stop will feature a little taste of Estonia.

Contest winners will be contacted via email.

When Lexsoul Dancemachine decided to come to Canada they wanted to share the stage with Canada’s funnest and funkiest bands. The legendary Shuffle Demons turned out to be the perfect fit. Both bands have a reputation for captivating stage shows all the way down to their matching splashy attire. The parallels continue, the Shuffle Demons even have a connection to Estonia (the band performed there in 1991 just days before the country gained its independence), and both bands are famous for their love of buses. Torontonians will be familiar with Shuffle Demons hit Spadina Bus, but might not know Lexsoul Dancemachine made national news for performing atop a moving bus for 3.5 hours in Tallinn. 

The bands decided to create an all new “bus route” with a series of free pop-up concerts on Sep 21. The free concerts are in support of Lexsoul Dancemachine’s Canadian tour, featuring a double bill with the Shuffle Demons at Axis Club Theatre (Toronto) on Sep 23.

Here's the bus schedule:

7-7:30PM - 3 Madison Ave. (beside Tartu College Student Residence)

8-8:30PM - 268 Augusta Ave. (in front of Supermarket)

8:45-9:15PM - 458 Queen St. W. (next to DROM Taberna)

These pop-up concerts are presented by Tartu College, Estonian Museum Canada / VEMU, Estonian Music Week, and funded by the Government of Canada and sponsored by Koger Valuations Inc. and Northern Birch Credit Union.

Contest Rules:

No purchase necessary. Must be a resident of Ontario. Transportation to and from pickup/drop-off locations not provided. Must be at least 19 years of age. One entry per person will be counted.

Quickly gaining ground on the world stage as both a composer and musician, young violist and multi-instrumentalist Kristjan Kannukene showcases his virtuosic musical and compositional talents through a unique, vivacious performance at the cozy and inviting Tranzac Club.  

Kristjan Kannukene

Kristjan Kannukene (1996) has explored various musical landscapes within his performative career. Thus far, he has received wide recognition for his vocal talents. In collaboration with piano virtuoso Rein Rannap, he released an album titled “KEELATUD! Ruja varased laulud, Eesti esimene rokkalbum 43 aastat hiljem” (PROHIBITED! Ruja’s Early Repertoire, Estonia’s First Rock Album 43 Years Later), and a film documenting the process of making the record was produced as well. Spurred on by his love of rock, Kristjan later released his own debut album titled “333.” Soon thereafter,  his first major performance “ORG#MAD” took place at the artistic festival “Klaaspärlimäng” (Glasspearlgame), featuring a repertoire for viola and chamber orchestra. Blending rock and classical music together, he performed Bach’s violin concerto in A-minor on the electric guitar along with the bachFest orchestra. While he was studying in London, he collaborated with modern dancers through improvisation. Within the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre’s 100th anniversary year, he composed the music for the joint performative collaboration between the academy’s School of Theatre and NUKU Theatre called “Tuulte pöörises” (Whirlwind). Kannukene has performed several of his own compositions at London’s Wigmore Hall and at the Fuentidueña chapel of New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art. Recently he took part in various master classes for the viola in Italy and Switzerland, among them famed Japanese violist Nobuko Imai’s workshop. Just this summer, Kristjan released his first improvisational album in collaboration with Iranian-based cellist Roxanna Albayati titled "Daste Ma دست ما.” 

Kannukene recently finished and received his master’s degree for classical viola studies at the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre and will continue this fall towards a master’s in modern improvisation. In 2018-2019, he furthered his studies at London’s Trinity Laban conservatory. Among other achievements, the young musician won first place within the stringed instrument category at the international classical music competition “Kaunas Sonorum 2017” and the Estonian Ministry of Education and Research presented him in 2018 with the title of Student of the Year. Kristjan belongs to the fraternity Fraternitas Liviensis. 

PWYC (recommended $10), walk-in seating

Estonian Music Week is a project by Estonian Museum Canada / VEMU.

Presenting Partners: Kotkajärve Metsaülikool (Forest University) , Tranzac Club

Collegium Musicale performs their “Sounds of Freedom” concert, a collection of pieces by Estonian contemporary composers (including Arvo Pärt, Veljo Tormis, Pärt Uusberg and Erkki-Sven Tüür) written after independence in 1991.

Collegium Musicale

Renowned Estonian choir Collegium Musicale captivates audiences with their high-calibre performances and powerful sound. The group’s repertoire extends from renaissance to contemporary music, including oratorios and operas. A very special place in their repertoire belongs to Estonian contemporary composers including Arvo Pärt, Veljo Tormis and Erkki-Sven Tüür. Collegium Musicale’s mission is to offer a dynamic range of musical emotions and be ambassadors of Estonian music throughout the world. During its 11 year history, the choir has enjoyed many international collaborations, frequent concert tours and performances at the top tier festivals. The choir is in high demand, giving approximately 40 concerts a year. Collegium Musicale has been recognized with numerous awards including Choir of the Year in Estonia, a distinction the group has received three times. Conductor Endrik Üksvärav is well known in his own right, debuting as a conductor of the Estonian Song Festival in 2019, conducting a choir of some 20,000 singers and to an audience of over 60,000.

Conductor Endrik Üksvärav (b. 1980) has received degrees from the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre in conducting (BA and MA) and has studied the trumpet and French horn. In 2012 he began his studies in early music singing at the Royal Conservatory of the Hague (the Netherlands). He participated as the tenor soloist in Arvo Pärt and Robert Wilson’s “Adam’s Lament”. In addition to Estonia, Üksvärav is also active as conductor and singer in various countries in Europe, foremost in the Netherlands. In 2018, the King of the Netherlands decorated Endrik Üksvärav with a medal of the Order of Orange Nassau “for special merits for society”. 2019 July marked Endrik Üksvärav’s debut as a conductor of the Estonian Song Festival, conducting a choir of some 20,000 singers and to an audience of over 60,000.

Major Funding for this project is provided by the Estonian Foundation of Canada.

Special funding for this concert provided by the Estonian Embassy in Ottawa.

Estonian Music Week is a project by Estonian Museum Canada / VEMU.

Support: Estonian Integration Foundation, Estonian Ministry of Culture

In collaboration with the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra and the Cotton Factory, EMW presents a unique performance by Collegium Musicale and members of the HPO inside the historic Cotton Factory.

This concert highlights two generations of Estonian composers pushing the boundaries of choral repertoire. The first generation, Arvo Pärt (1935 – ), was the most performed living composer in the world from 2011 to 2018. Like a funnel, the 2002-composed Salve Regina work swirls inward becoming ever-more “concentrated and grave until it reaches the deepest point.” (Pärt, 2012) Rising star Estonian-Canadian pianist Erik Kreem joins for a performance of Erkki-Sven Tüür’s (1959 -) Reekviem (1994). Tüür whose roots are in progressive rock is considered among the most original and influential of his generation. The Reekviem choral mass “raises a Gregorian chant out of mediaeval ooze and sets it loose in postmodern orbit with frightening beauty.” Tüür’s 2022 acapella composition For Ukraine is written as an homage to the people of the war-torn country.

The concert is accompanied by the Odesa Photo Days festival’s exhibit Ukrainian Frontline Photography, bringing about troubling parallels between the Baltic history under Soviet occupation and the devastating potential of current Russian ambition. Hamilton’s historic Cotton Factory promises to provide a striking backdrop for these emotionally heavy works and the photo exhibition.

Collegium Musicale

Renowned Estonian choir Collegium Musicale captivates audiences with their high-calibre performances and powerful sound. The group’s repertoire extends from renaissance to contemporary music, including oratorios and operas. A very special place in their repertoire belongs to Estonian contemporary composers including Arvo Pärt, Veljo Tormis and Erkki-Sven Tüür. Collegium Musicale’s mission is to offer a dynamic range of musical emotions and be ambassadors of Estonian music throughout the world. During its 11 year history, the choir has enjoyed many international collaborations, frequent concert tours and performances at the top tier festivals. The choir is in high demand, giving approximately 40 concerts a year. Collegium Musicale has been recognized with numerous awards including Choir of the Year in Estonia, a distinction the group has received three times. Conductor Endrik Üksvärav is well known in his own right, debuting as a conductor of the Estonian Song Festival in 2019, conducting a choir of some 20,000 singers and to an audience of over 60,000.

Conductor Endrik Üksvärav (b. 1980) has received degrees from the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre in conducting (BA and MA) and has studied the trumpet and French horn. In 2012 he began his studies in early music singing at the Royal Conservatory of the Hague (the Netherlands). He participated as the tenor soloist in Arvo Pärt and Robert Wilson’s “Adam’s Lament”. In addition to Estonia, Üksvärav is also active as conductor and singer in various countries in Europe, foremost in the Netherlands. In 2018, the King of the Netherlands decorated Endrik Üksvärav with a medal of the Order of Orange Nassau “for special merits for society”. 2019 July marked Endrik Üksvärav’s debut as a conductor of the Estonian Song Festival, conducting a choir of some 20,000 singers and to an audience of over 60,000.

Major Funding for this project is provided by the Estonian Foundation of Canada.

Estonian Music Week is a project by Estonian Museum Canada / VEMU.

Support: Estonian Integration Foundation, Estonian Embassy in Ottawa, Estonian Ministry of Culture

Partners: Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra, The Cotton Factory

Renowned Estonian choir Collegium Musicale sings Veljo Tormis’ Forgotten Peoples, a contemporary work based on nearly lost ancient folk song

About this event

SING! and Estonian Music Week (EMW) are teaming up to present top Estonian choir Collegium Musicale. For this concert Collegium Musicale will perform selections from Tormis’ Forgotten Peoples, a monumental choral work which brings to life nearly lost Balto-Finnic traditional songs. Collegium Musicale travelled to perform the work in its cultural birthplaces, which is also the subject of a recently released documentary. Let Collegium Musicale take you on this incredible journey with an emotionally charged performance.

Veljo Tormis

Veljo Tormis (1930-2017) is one of Estonia's most famous composers, renowned above all for his choral music. "I do not use folk song, it is folk song that uses me," said the composer of his approach. Forgotten Peoples is a six suite song cycle that forges a unique and original modern classical composition with song heritage of nearly lost indegenous Balto-Finnic cultures. The work bears echoes of the tonality of Bartok and Stravinsky, with the minimalist compositional structure of Arvo Pärt. The work is complex and unique with elements ranging from animal sounds to polyphony, and chant.

Collegium Musicale

Renowned Estonian choir Collegium Musicale captivates audiences with their high-calibre performances and powerful sound. The group’s repertoire extends from renaissance to contemporary music, including oratorios and operas. A very special place in their repertoire belongs to Estonian contemporary composers including Arvo Pärt, Veljo Tormis and Erkki-Sven Tüür. Collegium Musicale’s mission is to offer a dynamic range of musical emotions and be ambassadors of Estonian music throughout the world. During its 11 year history, the choir has enjoyed many international collaborations, frequent concert tours and performances at the top tier festivals. The choir is in high demand, giving approximately 40 concerts a year. Collegium Musicale has been recognized with numerous awards including Choir of the Year in Estonia, a distinction the group has received three times. Conductor Endrik Üksvärav is well known in his own right, debuting as a conductor of the Estonian Song Festival in 2019, conducting a choir of some 20,000 singers and to an audience of over 60,000.

Conductor Endrik Üksvärav (b. 1980) has received degrees from the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre in conducting (BA and MA) and has studied the trumpet and French horn. In 2012 he began his studies in early music singing at the Royal Conservatory of the Hague (the Netherlands). He participated as the tenor soloist in Arvo Pärt and Robert Wilson’s “Adam’s Lament”. In addition to Estonia, Üksvärav is also active as conductor and singer in various countries in Europe, foremost in the Netherlands. In 2018, the King of the Netherlands decorated Endrik Üksvärav with a medal of the Order of Orange Nassau “for special merits for society”. 2019 July marked Endrik Üksvärav’s debut as a conductor of the Estonian Song Festival, conducting a choir of some 20,000 singers and to an audience of over 60,000.

SING! The Toronto Vocal Arts Festival

SING! is Canada’s premier a cappella festival (singing without instruments). Held every year in May, SING! presents 10 days of outstanding concerts featuring the human voice. Started in 2011 on a shoestring budget with 7 enthusiasts, SING! Is now the largest a cappella festival in Canada. Each year, SING! brings together thousands of professional singers (Canadian and international), students, teachers, divas and in-the-shower belters.

COVID-19 Precautions

We will continue to follow public health guidelines and reserve the right to review and update policies as the situation changes, including vaccination status and masking requirements. If you have a particular concern, please reach out to us and we will do our best to accommodate. We will continue to require vaccinations for performers, backstage crew, theatre staff and volunteers for SING!-produced events.*

This concert is presented by Sing! The Toronto International Vocal Arts Festival and Estonian Music Week.

Major Funding for this project is provided by the Estonian Foundation of Canada.

Estonian Music Week is a project by Estonian Museum Canada / VEMU.

Support: Estonian Integration Foundation, Estonian Embassy in Ottawa, Estonian Ministry of Culture

Grammy-nominated jazz pianist and ECM recording artist Kristjan Randalu returns to Toronto joined by Juno-winning saxophonist Mike Murley.

About this event

Please see below for COVID-19 policy and venue information.

Estonian pianist Kristjan Randalu performs music from Absence – a striking album of his own rigorous-yet-lyrical music. As an improviser of prodigious technique, once described by Herbie Hancock “a dazzling piano player”, Randalu’s affinities are with the jazz musicians, but the forms and dynamics of his pieces also reflect a discerning sense of structure. Absence was recorded in France and produced by Manfred Eicher.

KRISTJAN RANDALU

Kristjan Randalu belongs to the most sought-after piano players of his generation, carrying the torch in both the improvised world of jazz and the traditional realm of classical music – Herbie Hancock, the piano master himself, considering him “a dazzling piano player”. Between creating his own original blend of contemporary jazz as a leader and collaborating with several generations of respected musicians, from the likes of fellow ECM recording artist Trygve Seim to saxophonist David Liebman, Randalu has brought his music to some of the world’s most renowned jazz festivals and concert halls. At the same time, he is viewed as an esteemed interpreter of a broad spectrum of contemporary and classical music, performing alongside internationally acclaimed ensembles of the stature of the London Symphony Orchestra and the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra on the one hand and esteemed conductors like Kristjan Järvi and Dennis Russell Davies on the other. His over 40 album-strong discography has won him several awards, including “Jazz Artist of the Year” and “Jazz Composer of the year” in Estonia.

MIKE MURLEY

An engaging, lyrical saxophonist, Mike Murley is one of Canada’s most celebrated and well-respected jazz artists. Currently active as a leader in various formations from duo to septet, Murley also maintains a busy schedule as both a sideman and an Associate Professor at the University of Toronto Jazz Program. He has played on fourteen Juno Award-winning recordings since 1990, seven as a leader or co-leader, seven as a sideman. His most recent Junos include The North (2018), Metalwood’s Twenty (2017) and his trio’s Test of Time (2013).

Since moving to Toronto from his native Nova Scotia in 1981 Murley has enjoyed a career that has spanned a wide stylistic spectrum. Recordings with legendary Canadian artists such as Ed Bickert, Guido Basso, and Rob McConnell showcase the saxophonist’s talents in the mainstream standard repertoire. On the more contemporary side, Murley has collaborated frequently with the younger generation of improviser/composers including pianist David Braid and guitarist David Occhipinti. He is also well known for his work with the three-time Juno Award winning electric jazz group Metalwood. In addition he has recorded and performed with numerous other Canadian and international artists including John Abercrombie, David Liebman, Paul Bley, John Schofield and Kenny Wheeler.

COVID-19 POLICY

For your safety and the safety of your fellow concert-goers we will continue to require proof of vaccination to be shown and masks to be worn upon entry. Please let us know should you require exemption by contacting emw@vemu.ca.

VENUE INFORMATION

Toronto Heliconian Club (35 Hazelton Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M5R 2E3)

By TTC: Take the Cumberland exit at the Bay subway station. Cross the pedestrian crosswalk on Cumberland Street. Walk north along the pedestrian walkway to Yorkville Avenue. Cross Yorkville Avenue and continue on Hazelton Avenue, where you will see The Heliconian Hall on your right-hand side just after Scollard Street.

Parking: The Bloor-Yorkville BIA keeps an up-to-date map with prices of pay parking lot options in Yorkville. It can be viewed here: bloor-yorkville.com/directions/

There is also Green P parking available on most of the streets in the neighborhood, and free parking on Hazelton, though it is often at capacity and is limited to one hour before 6 pm. There are temporary loading zones in front of and adjacent to Heliconian Hall, but they are actively patrolled by bylaw officers, and unless you are visibly in the process of loading, the chances of getting a ticket are high in these zones.

Do you have little ones in your family? On Saturday October 23rd at 12:00 PM , come down to Tartu College (310 Bloor St W) for a fun afternoon of kids' music and a story reading from author and musician Vincent Teetsov and his friend and drummer extraordinaire, Stefan Loebus.

Vincent will be your guide through the colourful world of Pumpkin and Stretch, into a mysterious cave and a forest abounding with silly, jazzy, and cultural creatures.

You can also *watch online* through the Estonian Music Week Facebook page!

In-person tickets will be available on Friday, October 8!

Join us for the final instalment of ‘Memories of Home’ with classical pianist and composer Erik Kreem!

Streaming on Facebook Live and Youtube. RSVP or subscribe today!

Erik Kreem is an emerging Toronto-based Estonian-Canadian composer and performer eager to share his dynamic artistic voice. His music has been described as “fresh” and “inventive,” whose “elements emerge with surprise” (Estonian Life), while reflecting the work of his predecessors of the past two centuries. Initially establishing his musical perspective as a solo pianist and broadening his artistic horizons as a cellist, vocalist, and accompanist, Erik has rapidly expanded his compositional oeuvre beyond the piano to encompass chamber, vocal, and large ensemble works.

We start the night with a conversation about Kreem's musical beginnings, his home life growing up and formative musical experiences. Followed by a concert where Erik Kreem presents Heino Eller's work, "six pieces of his Childhood Suite, which in my mind brings out the feeling of a dream; like a child flying out from their bedroom window, powered by magic and wonder. Finally, Kreem will share some improvisations to bring the evening to a close.'' (Vincent Teetsov, Estonian Life.)

The Memories of Home Online Concert Series embraces the duality of having roots in one country while starting afresh in another. In a global society characterized by immigration, many Canadians are familiar with memories that compete for the title of “home”. Such memories might be fleeting images or feelings deep down inside – vague or distinct – conjuring up an attachment to place.

In the current climate of reflection, such memories are more precious than ever. We asked artists to show us what memories of home mean to them. Together, we embark on a multi-disciplinary journey exploring the recollections of place through music, dance and film.

Huge thank you to our series partner Northern Birch Credit Union and concert partner Heinsoo Insurance for their kind support!

Join us for April’s instalment of ‘Memories of Home’ with Classical and Flamenco guitarist Roman Smirnov!

Streaming on Facebook Live and Youtube. RSVP or subscribe today!

Born in Estonia, Smirnov's musical studies took him to Russia, Israel and Germany before crossing the Atlantic to Canada. Smirnov's musical influences span the globe. He has studied with the greats (Tiit Peterson, A. Fauchi and Joseph Urshlmi) and played everything from Russian metal to jazz. With dazzling technique and virtuostic flare he brings creative approaches to Baroque, Hebrew and Chinese music. A seemingly infinitely versatile musician, you'll find Roman playing solo, in duos and ensembles, as well as accompanying singers.

The Memories of Home Online Concert Series embraces the duality of having roots in one country while starting afresh in another. In a global society characterized by immigration, many Canadians are familiar with memories that compete for the title of “home”. Such memories might be fleeting images or feelings deep down inside – vague or distinct – conjuring up an attachment to place.

In the current climate of reflection, such memories are more precious than ever. We asked artists to show us what memories of home mean to them. Together, we embark on a multi-disciplinary journey exploring the recollections of place through music, dance and film.

Huge thank you to our series partner Northern Birch Credit Union for their kind support!

https://www.northernbirchcu.com/

Northern Birch Credit Union Presents:

Memories of Home

Online Concert Series

Tiina Kiik with Tuulikki Bartosik

Special guest Julia Aplin

For showtime reminder:

RSVP: https://www.facebook.com/events/1722840144553585

or subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/user/VEMUESC

The Memories of Home Online Concert Series embraces the duality of having roots in one country while starting afresh in another. In a global society characterized by immigration, many Canadians are familiar with memories that compete for the title of “home”. Such memories might be fleeting images or feelings deep down inside – vague or distinct – conjuring up an attachment to place.

In the current climate of reflection, such memories are more precious than ever. We asked artists to show us what memories of home mean to them. Together, we embark on a multi-disciplinary journey exploring the recollections of place through music, dance and film. The series commences on January 29, 2021 and runs until May.

The Memories of Home Online Concert Series begins with two female performers central to expanding the sonic capabilities and breaking through genre barriers of the accordion. Toronto-based musician and educator Tiina Kiik reimagines contemporary classical compositions for the accordion bringing unexpected textures to the instruments.

Estonian accordionist and composer Tuulikki Bartosik is slated to record a special performance for the concert. The series of Bartosik’s original compositions is a meditation on her rural homeland of Rõuge, Estonia, and her travels around the world as a performing artist. Fast becoming one of the world’s leading contemporary accordionists, Bartosik draws inspiration for her music from ancient Scandinavian and Ugric tradition. Bartosik will be streaming from the ancient St Catherine's Monastery which is one of Tallinn's oldest buildings, founded by Dominican monks back in 1246. The monastery once had its own brewery and hospital, but was destroyed in 1524. The church, which actually sits inside the monastery is currently used for concerts and theatre performances. 

Streamed at https://www.facebook.com/EstonianMusicWeek and https://www.youtube.com/user/VEMUESC

Huge thank you to our series partner Northern Birch Credit Union for their kind support!

https://www.northernbirchcu.com/

Join us in the celebration of 50 years of Tartu College on Facebook live with Erik Laar!

Erik Laar is an experimental multi genre producer, turntablist, vocalist, and instrumentalist. Erik's special blend of electronics brings together' organic analog with a digital filter. Big bad beats with a soft side. Born and raised in Toronto with Estonian roots, his career has often taken him to perform in UK and California. Since 2004, Laar is the owner, director, and instructor at Off Centre DJ School.

Listen to some of Erik Laar's work on https://soundcloud.com/eriklaar

In September we started a series of live-stream concerts to celebrate a landmark in the Estonian diaspora history here in Toronto with Kaili Kinnon. Tartu College has been a hub for Estonian academic and cultural life for 50 years. As a home for the Estonian academic organizations, Museum of Estonians Abroad, Estonian Life newspaper, the archives, library - we are acknowledging the people who built Tartu and have kept it successfully running for half a century.

Estonians are a singing nation so naturally we find music the best way to celebrate. We hope you can all join us from the comfort of your homes!

Throughout the fall, our online concert series will take you on a musical journey to different parts of Tartu College building that has many stories to tell.

***Postponed

The Nordic Voices Concert Series is bringing Kristjan Randalu to Hamilton on March 28!

Join us at The Cotton Factory (270 Sherman Ave. East, Hamilton) and enjoy the breathtaking compositions and technical wizardry that Randalu brings to every performance. Kristjan will be joined by three Canadian jazz greats: Neil Swainson, Terry Clarke, and Reg Schwager.

Kristjan Randalu is one of the most compelling pianists of his generation, sought after as soloist, collaborator AND composer, his music described by Jazz Times as an "unnameable exotic land".

His numerous recordings as both soloist and collaborator include a Grammy nomination in 2006 and Jazz Album of the Year at the 2012 Estonian Music Awards. His awards include the 2007 Jazz Award of Baden-Wuerttemberg, the 2011 Elion Jazz Award, the 2014 Music Award of the Cultural Endowment of Estonia and Jazz Composer of the Year 2018 in Estonia.

***Postponed