Cyrillus Kreek (July 3, 1889 – March 26, 1962) was an Estonian composer and collector of folk music whose work played a fundamental role in the nation's cultural heritage. Born in the rural village of Saanika, Estonia, Kreek developed a deep-seated interest in the rich tapestry of his country’s folk tunes. He studied at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, wherein he was heavily influenced by the nationalist movement within classical music, aligning his aspirations with those of his contemporaries who sought to preserve national identities through music.

Kreek's contributions to Estonian music are pivotal, as he meticulously compiled, arranged, and harmonized over 1300 folk songs, which he recorded using phonography. His compositions often fused these collected melodies with classical forms, thereby intertwining traditional Estonian music with Western art music. This innovative approach created a unique soundscape that resonated with Estonian identity and helped establish a musical language characteristic of the region. Some of his most revered works include "Requiem" and pieces like "The Sun Shall Not Smite Thee" which showcase his choral writing skill, preserving the haunting beauty of Estonian choral tradition. Kreek's legacy endures through recent releases and performances, including the project "The Suspended Harp of Babel," which speaks to the continued relevance and influence of his music in contemporary settings; it ensures that Kreek's spiritual and pastoral sound world continues to fascinate and move new generations of listeners.

Genres

Baltic Classical

Latest Release

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

Arvo Pärt•

Veljo Tormis•

Cyrillus Kreek•

Ēriks Ešenvalds

Album - 65 Tracks - Released October 20, 2023