Estonian Voices "Kallimale" • Jazzkaar 2024
The Estonian a cappella sextet Estonian Voices doesn’t need introduction to local music lovers. The repertoire of Estonia’s brightest vocal ensemble of the last decade covers jazz, folk and classical music. Having toured in many parts of the world and received numerous awards, Estonian Voices will present their fresh studio album at this year’s Jazzkaar festival. “The album features songs from the heart. Minimalistic sound, singer-songwriter type melodies and the characteristic harmony of the Estonian Voices together form a bright-sounding musical canvas. Ten different short stories have been turned into ten songs, performed by the six singers with their inherent delicacy, quality of sound and sense of harmony. This album will surely be a pleasant treat to every listener,” believes Kadri Voorand, the author of the songs.
The ensemble won the hearts of the audience already at their first performance at the Christmas Jazz festival in 2010. Following a successful opening concert, performances followed throughout Estonia, as well as in Germany, Russia, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania and China. They have collaborated with Estonian Dream Big Band, jazz singer Datevik Hovanesian and former M-Pact leader Britt Quentin, and performed alongside vocal ensembles New York Voices and Take 6, as well as with Bobby McFerrin & Gimme5. In 2018, Estonian Voices performed at the opening concert of the London A Capella Festival.
Britt Quentin has dubbed Estonian Voices “one of the most unique sounding vocal ensembles in Europe”. London composer and journalist Robert Hugill seconds that: “They create a very particular sound, the individuality of their arrangements is striking and much to be commended!”
Line-up:
Mirjam Dede – soprano
Maria Väli – soprano
Kadri Voorand – alto
Mikk Dede – tenor
Rasmus Erismaa – baritone
Aare Külama – bass
