Veljo Tormis (7 August 1930 – 21 January 2017) was an esteemed Estonian composer who carved a profound niche in the choral music domain, becoming one of the foremost figures in his nation's cultural landscape. With a passion for preserving his country's ancient song traditions, Tormis's work is deeply rooted in the folklore and ancient chants of the Baltic and Finno-Ugric peoples, drawing from their languages and rhythms to create resonant, evocative compositions. His style is characterized by the use of repetitive motifs and a powerful narrative thrust that often conveys an acute sense of connection with the natural world and the cycles of life.

Throughout his career, Tormis composed a vast body of work that brought his appreciation for traditional music to new audiences. His pieces such as "Curse Upon Iron," which underlines the perils of militarism, reflect his belief in the social role and moral force of music. Tormis's fascination with the calendar songs of the Estonian people blossomed into the influential work "Casting a Spell... Estonian Calendar Songs," showcasing his dedication to the preservation of cultural identity through music. His poignant "Forgotten Peoples" series is another testament to his commitment to revitalize the ancient songs of minority Finno-Ugric communities. Although Veljo Tormis passed away in 2017, his music remains a beacon of Estonian national pride and a staple within the global choral canon, asserting the universal significance of cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of traditional song.

Genres

Baltic Classical

Estonian Rock

Latest Release

Baltic Landscapes: Pärt, Tormis, Kreek, Ešenvalds, Miškinis

Arvo Pärt•

Veljo Tormis•

Cyrillus Kreek•

Ēriks Ešenvalds

Album - 65 Tracks - Released October 20, 2023