Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Estonian folk traditions with Veljo Tormis' captivating album, "Casting a Spell... Estonian Calendar Songs." This exquisite collection, released on September 22, 2023, under Warner Classics, is a testament to Tormis' mastery of choral minimalism and his deep connection to his cultural heritage.
The album is a journey through the Estonian calendar year, featuring songs that accompany various seasonal rituals and celebrations. From the hauntingly beautiful "Martinmas Songs" that mark the onset of winter to the lively "Saint John's Day Songs" that welcome the summer solstice, each track is a window into Estonia's rich folkloric tapestry. Tormis' compositions, with their intricate rhythms and haunting melodies, bring to life the ancient traditions and beliefs of the Estonian people.
The album's 30 tracks are divided into six distinct sections, each dedicated to a specific time of the year. The "Swing Songs" and "3 Estonian Game Songs" add a playful element to the collection, showcasing the communal and interactive nature of Estonian folk music.
With a duration of 51 minutes, "Casting a Spell..." is a concise yet comprehensive exploration of Estonian musical traditions. Veljo Tormis, a renowned figure in the world of choral music, has crafted an album that is both a historical document and a vibrant celebration of Estonian culture. Whether you're a fan of choral music, a lover of folk traditions, or simply someone seeking to explore new musical horizons, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
Tracks
Tormis: Martinmas Songs: No. 1, Martinmas Beggars at the DoorVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Martinmas Songs: No. 2, GreetingVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Martinmas Songs: No. 3, Words of blessingVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Martinmas Songs: No. 4, DanceVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Martinmas Songs: No. 5, Casting a SpellVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Martinmas Songs: No. 6, Begging for GiftsVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Martinmas Songs: No. 7, ThankingVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Martinmas Songs: No. 8, WishesVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Martinmas Songs: No. 9, EndingVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Saint Catherine's Day Songs: No. 1, EntranceVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Saint Catherine's Day Songs: No. 2, Dance. Saying HelloVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Saint Catherine's Day Songs: No. 3, Begging for GiftsVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Saint Catherine's Day Songs: No. 4, Paying Thanks, Wishes and DepartureVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Shrovetide Songs: No. 1, Vistel-vastelVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Shrovetide Songs: No. 2, Spell Upon FlaxVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Shrovetide Songs: No. 3, Sledging SongVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Swing Songs: No. 1, The Narrow SwingVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Swing Songs: No. 2, The Sea Under the SwingVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Swing Songs: No. 3, A Pretty Girl on the SwingVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Swing Songs: No. 4, The Swing Asks for GiftsVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Swing Songs: No. 5, A Timid Girl on the SwingVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Swing Songs: No. 6, The Apple TreeVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Saint John's Day Songs: No. 1, Call to the Midsummer Bonfire IVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Saint John's Day Songs: No. 2, Call to the Midsummer Bonfire IIVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Saint John's Day Songs: No. 3, Cannot be Caught by the Shot of a GunVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Saint John's Day Songs: No. 4, Why We Look Forward to Saint John's ArrivalVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Saint John's Day Songs: No. 5, Saint John's SteedVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Saint John's Day Songs: No. 6, Fire IncantationVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: Saint John's Day Songs: No. 7, Saint John's SongVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: 3 Estonian Game Songs: No. 1, Hand Mill GameVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: 3 Estonian Game Songs: No. 2, Bandaging the Finger GameVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Tormis: 3 Estonian Game Songs: No. 3, Boat GameVeljo Tormis, Tõnu Kaljuste, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
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