The Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir under the direction of Tõnu Kaljuste has commenced a concert tour in North America, performing a diverse selection of works from notable composers.
The Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, led by conductor Tõnu Kaljuste, has started an extensive concert tour across North America from February 8 to 17. Throughout this period, the choir will perform six concerts in the United States and Canada, showcasing a rich repertoire that includes pieces by renowned composers such as Arvo Pärt, Veljo Tormis, Luciano Berio, Evelin Seppar, and Philip Glass. A highlight of the tour is the premiere of a new work by Estonian composer Riho Esko Maimets in Toronto.
The first concert took place on February 8 at the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, where the choir received a standing ovation from a full house at the end of the performance. On the same day, Kaljuste also conducted a masterclass with the local youth choir, The Madison Singers, focusing on Arvo Pärt's piece "The Deer's Cry." This interaction not only underscores the artistic exchange between the Estonian musicians and local talent but also highlights the educational aspect of their tour.
Following the opening concert, the choir is set to perform at various significant venues, including the Cathedral Basilica in St. Louis, the Sauder Concert Hall at Goshen College, Hill Auditorium in Ann Arbor, Yorkminster Park Baptist Church in Toronto, and the Maison Symphonique concert hall in Montreal. This tour represents a significant cultural outreach initiative by the Estonian musicians, aiming to foster greater awareness and appreciation of their artistic heritage while engaging with diverse audiences across North America.
