Ēriks Ešenvalds is a contemporary Latvian composer born on January 26, 1977, who has swiftly risen to international acclaim in the world of choral music. Known for his lush harmonies, evocative textures, and a compelling blend of the traditional with the innovatively modern, Ešenvalds has established himself as a significant voice in choral composition. He received his musical education at the Latvian Baptist Theological Seminary before proceeding to study composition at the Latvian Academy of Music with Selga Mence, from which he graduated in 2004.

Since embarking on his prolific career, Ēriks Ešenvalds has earned numerous awards, including the prestigious Latvian Grand Music Award several times for his contributions to the field. His music is frequently performed by choirs worldwide, and his works such as "O Salutaris Hostia," "Lux Aeterna," and "Stars" exhibit both a profound depth of emotional resonance and a masterful command of choral writing techniques. Ešenvalds' compositions often explore themes of nature, spirituality, and human experience, connecting listeners with the transcendental qualities of choral singing. He has also distinguished himself with multimedia works that incorporate visual and electronic elements, as exemplified in pieces like "Northern Lights" and "Whispers of Heavenly Death." As a sought-after composer, he has been commissioned by many distinguished ensembles and his work is a testament to the vibrant choral tradition of the Baltic region.

Genres

Baltic Classical

Choral

Related Artists

Arvo Pärt

Ola Gjeilo

Morten Lauridsen

Eric Whitacre

Hans Zimmer

Veljo Tormis

Jóhann Jóhannsson

Karl Jenkins

James MacMillan

John Rutter

Henryk Górecki

Caroline Shaw

Latest Release

Stars

Ēriks Ešenvalds•

Sara Teasdale•

Youth Choir "Kamer..."•

Jurģis Cābulis

Single - Released November 8, 2024