FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir Arrives in the United States for Two Carnegie Hall Concerts Honoring Composer Arvo Pärt’s 90th Year

New York, NY — [October 23, 2024] — The Estonian American National Council (EANC) proudly welcomes the arrival of the world-renowned Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir (EPCC) to the United States for two highly-anticipated concerts at Carnegie Hall. The two-day celebration of Estonian composer Arvo Pärt will bring together the Grammy award winning EPCC under the direction of Maestro Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Festival Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Paavo Järvi, world renowned violinist Midori, violinist Hans Christian Aavik, pianist Nico Muhly, the Trinity Choir, and the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra.  These performances will unite audiences from across the United States and beyond in tribute to one of the most influential living composers in the realm of sacred and minimalist music.

The choir’s concerts, taking place on October 23 and 24, feature some of Pärt’s most beloved works — highlighting the profound spirituality and emotional resonance that define his compositions. The Carnegie Hall program also includes collaborations with distinguished instrumentalists and guest soloists, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience the universal reach of Pärt’s music on one of the world’s most celebrated stages.

The Estonian American National Council is honored to serve as a supporting partner for this historic tour, as it was during the choir’s acclaimed North American tour in 2024. This partnership reflects EANC’s enduring mission to promote Estonian culture and heritage throughout the United States.

“We are deeply honored to help bring the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir to the stage of Carnegie Hall in celebration of Arvo Pärt on his 90th birthday.,” said EANC President Mai-Liis Bartling. “Their artistic mastery embodies the depth and beauty of Estonia’s choral tradition — a gift we are proud to share with American audiences and the Estonian American community. This collaboration underscores EANC’s mission to strengthen cultural ties and to celebrate the creative spirit that unites Estonia and America.”

Esper Linnamägi, Managing Diretor of Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, added: “For the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, returning to the United States with an all-Arvo Pärt program is a moment of both pride and gratitude. We are thankful to the Estonian American National Council for making this collaboration possible. To perform Estonian music on the stage of Carnegie Hall for two consecutive nights highlights the growing curiosity and appreciation for our choral tradition and for the artists who bring it to life.”

Founded in 1981, the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir has earned worldwide acclaim for its interpretations of both Estonian and international composers. The ensemble has performed in major concert halls and festivals across Europe, Asia, and North America, captivating audiences with its pure sound and emotional intensity.  It won two Grammy Awards for Best Choral Performance: one in 2007 for Arvo Pärt’s Da Pacem and another in 2014 for Adam’s Lament.  It has received a total of 15 Grammy nominations across various categories. The choir’s U.S. visit marks one of the highlights of this year’s global celebrations of Arvo Pärt’s 90th birthday.

Concert Information:
 Carnegie Hall, New York City

About the Estonian American National Council (EANC):
Established in 1952, the Estonian American National Council represents the interests of Estonians living in the United States, helps foster and support cultural, educational, and civic initiatives in the Etsonian American community, helps strengthen transatlantic ties between Estonia and the U.S., and advocates for the interests of Estonian Americans and a secure, democratic Estonia. We are thankful to our donors for ther support that helps make our mission possible.

Learn more at www.estosite.org

Media Contact:
Leelo Linask
Executive Director
Estonian American National Council

erku@estosite.org