In this concert, the Estonian Television Girls’ Choir, together with Aarne Saluveer, brings to life the music of Veljo Tormis, celebrating the traditions of our ancestors associated with various occasions in the Estonian folk calendar and the ancient Estonian runic song tradition.

This daytime concert is perfect for schoolchildren, as well as grandparents who are encouraged to bring along the youngest members of their families. There is no strict boundary between performers and audience – the choir sings, dances, and moves throughout the concert hall. The audience will even have the chance to learn a song on the spot and sing along. Aarne Saluveer has a powerful musical companion – a shamanic drum. Cätlin Mägi will demonstrate how to make music with the Estonian bagpipes and jaw harp.

Audience members are welcome to come dressed in traditional St. Martin’s Day or St. Catherine’s Day costumes. There will also be opportunities to take photos in the foyer and join a group photo with everyone attending the concert.

“I do not use folk songs; folk songs use me.” — Veljo Tormis

St. Martin’s Day Songs bring autumn traditions to the stage, with lively costumes, festive revelry, and ritual chants invoking a bountiful harvest. St. Catherine’s Day Songs, by contrast, have a gentler sound, offering blessings for the household’s livestock and prosperity. Swing Songs evoke the rhythmic motion of a large traditional wooden village swing through music and the choir’s coordinated movements, transporting us back to the embrace of nature in spring and summer.