Founded in 1971, the Estonian National Opera Boys' Choir was adopted by the Estonian National Opera in 1997. The Choir functions as a choral studio with three different levels, so that about 140 young singers study vocal music there. The Choir has received acclaim (and a number of Gold Medals in competitions) in many European countries, Canada, the US, Australia and Japan. This 35th Anniversary (of the group's founding) live concert has 11 cuts, several that feature Estonian composers, such as Simon Brix' wonderful 17 -minute long "Magnificat," Rene Eespere's "Two Jubilations" and "The Time of Awakening," Juri Ruut Kangur's "In Paradisum," Ester Magi's powerful, a cappella "Beloved Homeland" and "Meditation of the Viru Poet," Velgo Tormis' "Step Up," and Kadri Hunt's "We Must Hold Each Other Dear." Also included, and lovely, are Handel's "Lascia Ch'io Pianga" and Bob Chilcott's 15-minute "Jubilate." Many of these cuts are accompanied. A beautiful collection from this talented ensemble! |
