Estonian Television Girls’ Choir recently performed at the Camden Roundhouse in London, where they shared the bill with Grammy winning musician Imogen Heap and singer-songwriter Ana Silvera. Present among the audience was one of the most iconic producers in the world, the father of ambient music Brian Eno, who kindly found some time to answer few questions for us.
Brian Eno, what impression did the concert leave you?
Estonian Girls’ Choir made me shiver, their performance of Veljo Tormis’ compositions was just stunning, I want to visit Estonia as soon as tomorrow!
Have you previously heard any Estonian Music?
Of course I know Arvo Pärt, but I haven’t listened any choral music from Estonia before. The way your girls’ choir sang and at the same time dancing along in a folklore tradition, was just so beautiful and wonderful. Oh my god!
Did you somehow feel any connection with your own music when you observed the concert?
Well, I have my own a cappella group that meets once a week, but it’s still in the development stage. But yes, I’m currently fascinated by choral music and the medium it represents.
What is your view of the cultural meaning of the Estonian Girls’ Choir performing here in London, and sharing the stage with British singer-songwriters Imogen Heap and Ana Silvera?
I think that the Estonian government would be wise to send these girls to perform all over the world, since most of their listeners would soon want to visit Estonia, at least I think so. I think that this is worth more than conventional ads! If you hear something so beautiful, it is working and people will want to visit your country. They feel that there is a truly vibrant and deep culture in Estonia!
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Brian Eno is a British musician, composer, record producer and visual artist best known for his contributions to ambient music and work in rock, pop and electronica. A self-described “non-musician”, Eno has helped introduce unconventional conceptual and recording approaches to contemporary music. He has been described as one of popular music’s most influential and innovative figures. Over the years, Eno collaborated with David Bowie, U2, Coldplay and many other artists.
