Pressiteade 11.08.2025

EANC is proud to support bring Estonian music to communities around the U.S.

Though several weeks have passed since Arsis concluded its concert tour across the United States, the ensemble continues to receive heartfelt messages of thanks and glowing feedback—especially for their standout performance at the prestigious Pinnacle Festival.

Over the course of two weeks, Arsis gave eight concerts in various states, receiving warm welcomes and full concert halls at every stop. However, their participation in Pinnacle 2025—an international handbell music festival held in Wichita, Kansas—was particularly significant.

As the only European ensemble invited to perform, Arsis was selected through a competitive process and made a powerful impression within the American handbell music community. Renowned composer and arranger Douglas Benton praised the concert as “astonishingly beautiful and deeply moving,” adding:

“The entire performance was simply breathtaking. The musicians were impressively professional and performed as a perfectly unified ensemble. I have long considered Arsis one of the world’s top five handbell groups—and this concert reaffirmed that belief.”

Linda Onorevole, Executive Director of Handbell Musicians of America (HMA) and organizer of the festival, called the ensemble’s performance one of the event’s highlights:

“Arsis’s concert at the HMA’s Pinnacle 2025 Festival in July was a true high point for our attendees. The group’s musical excellence and thoughtfully curated program brought a profound and inspiring dimension to the festival. It was an honor to host Arsis, and we look forward to future collaborations.”

The concert program showcased the ensemble’s remarkable virtuosity and cohesive sound, featuring works by Arvo Pärt, Heino Eller, and Estonian folk songs arranged by Tõnu Kõrvits—offering audiences a rich and compelling glimpse into the depth of Estonian musical heritage.

“It was a truly special opportunity to introduce Estonian handbell artistry to American audiences—especially at a festival of such caliber,” said conductor Aivar Mäe. “Our ensemble included alumni of the Arsis Handbell School, whose technical skill and musical sensitivity allowed us to perform a demanding repertoire with refined professionalism.”

Tour producer Tiina Boucher emphasized that the impact of the tour went beyond music alone:

“This tour served as a cultural bridge between Estonia and the United States. The new connections forged during our travels lay the groundwork for future projects. The support from the Estonian American National Council is a testament to the importance of preserving and sharing our culture beyond our borders.”

Leelo Linask, Executive Director of the Estonian American National Council (ERKÜ), also underlined the tour’s significance:

“The Arsis tour offered a wonderful opportunity to introduce Estonian performers to American audiences and strengthen cultural ties between Estonians at home and abroad—particularly in regions that don’t often host large international tours. Arsis represented Estonia with dignity and professionalism.”

Following the success of the tour, the ensemble has already received numerous invitations to perform in states they were unable to visit this time—further proof that Estonian handbell music and its broader musical culture are warmly welcomed and highly regarded across the Atlantic.

The tour was generously supported by the Estonian American National Council, Estonian Cultural Endowment, Tallink Grupp AS, and Giga Ehitus OÜ.

With a rich history spanning 32 years, Arsis has performed in countries around the globe—including China, Canada, Israel, Lebanon, South Africa, the United States, and across Europe. Several of its concert ensembles have grown out of the Arsis Handbell School, based in Tallinn and Tartu.

For more information:
Tiina Boucher
Manager, Arsis Handbell Ensemble
📧 info@arsis.ee
📞 +372 52 84 682