This album was recorded in February 2012 at Uppsala University Hall in Sweden, aiming to reproduce the natural sound of a concert venue.
Composer's Artistic Vision
More than half of Veljo Tormis's a cappella choral compositions are based directly on regilaulud, ancient traditional Estonian songs.
Composer Biography
Veljo Tormis, born in 1930 in Estonia, has composed over 500 choral songs, a chamber opera, a ballet-cantata, and 35 film scores.
Compositional Technique
Veljo Tormis's unique style involves incorporating scales and intervals from traditional tunes into his melodies and building harmonies from this material.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Veljo Tormis is sometimes called a modern shaman due to his use of repetitive regi songs, recitations of spells, and steadfast devotion to Estonian identity.
Performer Biography
Orphei Drängar (OD), the choir on this album, was formed in Uppsala in 1853 and consists of almost eighty male singers.
Performer Biography
His Majesty King Carl Gustaf XVI is the permanent patron of Orphei Drängar, the choir featured on this recording.
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