Estonian National Opera Chamber Music Concerts

Beautiful experience of chamber music

ESTONIAN NATIONAL OPERA CHAMBER CONCERTS

Chamber music tradition, born in the courts and salons, gives the audience an opportunity to listen to music in a more intimate environment and creates a special bond between the listeners and musicians. 119th season introduces a series of chamber concerts of beautiful music both from international and Estonian composers.

Curator of the chamber concerts series is Andreas Lend.

SUNSET SERENADE
October 9, 2025, at the Chamber Hall of the Estonian National Opera

This concert’s program takes us on a journey through tender longing, lost love, and the sounds of nighttime city streets. Each piece creates a unique atmosphere where the romance and melancholy of sunset intertwine, casting a spell where music becomes a gentle warmth and light fading into the evening sky. The program includes Erki-Sven Tüür’s String Quartet No. 2 “Lost Prayers”, Ottorino Respighi’s “Il tramonto” (The Sunset), Giacomo Puccini’s “Crisantemi” (Chrysanthemums), and Luigi Boccherini’s String Quintet “La musica notturna delle strade di Madrid” (The Night Music of the Streets of Madrid) in C major, Op. 30 No. 60, G. 324. Performed by Kadri Kõrvek (soprano), Maria Goršenina (violin), Adrian Bravo Lopez (violin), Karin Sarv (viola), Kristjan Saar (cello), Ekke Rainer Arndt (cello).

TO THE DEPTHS OF THE SOUL: SCHUMANN AND BRAHMS
November 27, 2025, at the Chamber Hall of the Estonian National Opera

“To the Depths of the Soul: Schumann and Brahms” is a musical journey through the creative worlds of two great masters. The concert begins with Schumann’s masterfully tender Adagio and Allegro in A-flat major, Op. 70, transitioning from serene melancholy to vibrant, joyful motion. Three lieder from the romantic cycle “Frauenliebe und -leben”, Op. 42, depict a woman’s life through love and devotion – from first encounter to the end of life. Brahms then guides us into a delicately passionate emotional landscape with his Clarinet Trio in A minor, Op. 114. The concert concludes with Brahms’s nostalgic and tranquil “Gestillte Sehnsucht”, Op. 91 No. 1, bringing a sense of inner peace. Performed by Aule Urb (mezzo-soprano), Edmunds Altmanis (clarinet), Andreas Lend (cello), Jaan Ots (piano).

ESTONIAN SURGE
February 19, 2026, at the Chamber Hall of the Estonian National Opera

This concert presents works by Estonian composers reflecting our national identity, history, the soul of our homeland, and vivid landscapes of nature. Tenor Heldur Harry Põlda will perform alongside the powerful and expressive sound of six cellists from the Estonian National Opera orchestra. The music is dedicated to Estonia’s freedom and culture, offering listeners a sonic experience that evokes reflection on national endurance and eternity.
The concert is held on the eve of Estonia’s Independence Day, providing a warm and meaningful beginning to this important celebration.

JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH: “GOLDBERG VARIATIONS” IN THREE GUISES
March 19, 2026, at the Chamber Hall of the Estonian National Opera

Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Goldberg Variations”, BWV 988, stand among the great masterpieces of classical music. This performance presents a unique format, allowing the audience to experience Bach’s genius through three distinct soundscapes, creating a colourful and captivating musical journey. Each variation is delivered with fresh and vibrant interpretation, providing a new experience with each ensemble.

Performers:
Auli Teppo (piano)

Woodwind trio:
Ingely Laiv-Järvi (oboe)
Kristi Volmer (English horn)
Francesco Pio Russo (bassoon)

String trio:
Arvo Leibur (violin)
Madis Järvi (viola)
Andreas Lend (cello)

DARK TONES AND ENCHANTMENTS: TALES AND LEGENDS OF WALPURGIS NIGHT
April 30, 2026, at the Chamber Hall of the Estonian National Opera

This concert leads listeners into a mystical world where enchanting melodies and mysterious tales come alive. A darker-than-usual repertoire and legends awaken through music. Throughout the evening, we enter the realm of spirits, where death, love, and witchcraft intertwine. Musicians and a storyteller create a nocturnal atmosphere, guiding the audience into the secretive universe of Walpurgis Night. Performed by Kristel Pärtna (soprano), Juuli Lill (mezzo-soprano), Priit Volmer (bass), Jaanika Rand-Sirp (piano), Piret Kutser (storyteller).