From July 30 to August 1, 2026, the Leigo Lake Music Festival will take place in the serene forests and lakes of Leigo, combining choral and contemporary music with large scale theatrical productions and international author projects. A highlight of this year’s festival is the world premiere of the concert production "The Curse of Iron," which will occur on July 31. This performance is a collaborative work for soloists and choirs, fusing Veljo Tormis's shamanistic soundscapes with the mythological texts of the Kalevala, reinterpreted through a modern lens.

The ambitious project, created by composer Marianna Liik and director Margus Kasterpalu, will bring together around 150 singers from six countries, offering a collective voice that speaks to the ethical responsibilities in a world dominated by technology and power. Choirs participating in the event will come from Northern and Baltic countries as well as Ukraine, showcasing a diverse musical collaboration that transcends borders.

As Marianna Liik stated, "Veljo Tormis's ‘The Curse of Iron’ provides me with a starting point due to its primal energy, rhythmic strength, and lyrical power. Through electronics, we expand the sonic world of the choirs and soloists, creating spatial experiences that will resonate with audiences." This festival not only celebrates musical talent but also emphasizes the importance of shared narratives and cultural unity in the face of contemporary challenges.