In 2026, we will celebrate the 85th anniversary of Tartu writer Jaan Kaplinski’s birth with a concert by the Estonian National Male Choir in the dignified St. John’s Church. The concert program, created using Jaan Kaplinski’s texts, will be presented in Tartu for the first time and will offer listeners a rich experience of the beloved author’s work performed by Estonia’s top choir.

Evelin Seppar (*1986)
„Seesama meri“ (2019 / arrangement for male choir 2025)

Robert Jürjendal (*1966)
„Valgus ei saagi vanaks“ for electric guitar and male choir (2025),
soloist Priidu Aardam

Evelin Seppar
„Tout est loin“ / „Kõik on kaugel“ (2025),
soloist Mikk Dede

Veljo Tormis (1930–2017)
„Maarjamaa ballaad“ (1969)
„Kord me tuleme tagasi“ („Meie varjud“) (1960/1991)

Robert Jürjendal (electric guitar)
Kadri Traksmann (organ)
Estonian National Male Choir
Conductor Mikk Üleoja

Young performers from the Jakobi Mäe Theatre Studio will present interludes based on Jaan Kaplinski’s work at the concert.
Supported by the Estonian Cultural Endowment and the City of Tartu.