Topic - Estonia
Estonia has rich culture. Music and dances have
always played an important role in people's life. The most original part of
Estonian folklore is the runic folksong. It was based on the alteration of long and
short syllables. In different folksongs either men or women sang and the songs
were often accompanied by a musical instrument. Today folksongs are often used
by modern composers. A major change in Estonian culture occurred during the
period of the National Awakening. Choirs and brassbands were founded in every
corner of Estonia, it culminated with the 1 st Song Festival in 1869. Since then the
Song Festivals have taken place every 4-5 years and have certainly helped
Estonians maintain their national identity. Tallinn is the seat of the Estonian
National Opera. The Chamber Choir of the Estonian Philharmonic Society is also
greatly appreciated thanks to the charisma and hard work of its long-time ex-
conductor Tõnu Kaljuste and Paul Hillier
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