We know Estonia
3.4.2025 | Culture

One of the best classical works of the 21st century will be heard in Estonia for the first time

Text Susanna Poikela
Photos Anneli Ivaste

One of the best classical works of the 21st century will be heard in Estonia for the first time

 

The Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra and soloists, led by conductor Tõnu Kaljuste, will perform James MacMillan‘s Stabat Mater, which tells the story of Good Friday, in Tallinn and Tartu. The first concert will be held on 17 April at the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre Concert Hall in Tallinn, and the second on 18 April at St. Paul’s Church in Tartu.

The work is considered one of the world’s best classics of the 21st century. Seven years ago, the Vatican selected it for the first live concert in the Sistine Chapel. Tens of thousands of people around the world followed the historic event via computers and televisions.

“There is a lot of music in the world that tells the story of Good Friday. Stabat Mater now continues where James MacMillan’s previous work, The Seven Last Words on the Cross, left off. It is particularly touching how the musical journey continues from Jesus’ last breaths to Mary’s pain and compassion, which are expressed in this work with great nuance and power,” describes conductor Tõnu Kaljuste.

The Guardian ranked MacMillan’s Stabat Mater at number 23 on its list of musical masterpieces of the century. “The music is compelling, the message clear, direct, enchanting, and fiery,” The Guardian writes about the work, calling it both ancient and contemporary at the same time.

The soloists in Stabat Mater concerts in Estonia include sopranos Marie Roos, Yena Choi, altos Cätly Talvik, tenors Danila Frantou, Raul Mikson, Toomas Tohert, Danny Zhizhong Xie, and bass Kim Sargsyan.

Tickets for concerts can be purchased from Piletilevi here

 

 

 

To learn more about this and similar topics
Classical Music Concerts Contemporary classical music Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre events Events in Estonia St. Paul's Church in Tartu Stabat Mater

27.7.2025 | Culture

Finnish Hits, Croquet, and a Cosmic Cowboyz Concert—SSS-Radio’s Summer Event at Hiiu Pub

Finnish Hits, Croquet, and a Cosmic Cowboyz Concert—SSS-Radio’s Summer Event at Hiiu Pub

SSS-Radio’s traditional feel-good event will once again bring Finns and Estonians together on 6 September in Tallinn. The venue … Read more

26.7.2025 | Estonia

If Children Ruled the World…Or at Least Võru

If Children Ruled the World…Or at Least Võru

On the final weekend of July in Võru, the capital city of Southern Estonia, children take over the town. … Read more

25.7.2025 | Culture

Queens of the Stone Age in Tallinn

Queens of the Stone Age in Tallinn

When a band is almost impossible to classify according to genres, then you know it’s a good band. Are … Read more

25.7.2025 | Culture

Johann Sebastian Bach Celebrated at St Nicholas Church and Museum

Johann Sebastian Bach Celebrated at St Nicholas Church and Museum

This year marks the 275th anniversary of Johann Sebastian Bach’s death. In his honour, a series of concerts will … Read more

24.7.2025 | Culture

Vanemuine Summer Concert

Vanemuine Summer Concert

For 15 years running, the Vanemuine Theatre in Tartu has held an outdoor concert featuring their symphonic orchestra. This … Read more

24.7.2025 | Culture

South Korean Opera at Saaremaa Opera Days

South Korean Opera at Saaremaa Opera Days

The 18th Saaremaa Opera Days, held in the courtyard of Kuressaare Castle, will begin on Tuesday, 22 July. This … Read more

23.7.2025 | Culture

“Which Festival?” Õllesummer

“Which Festival?” Õllesummer

Our next installment in the “Which Festival?” series is Õllesummer, or Beer Summer, a festival dating all the way … Read more

22.7.2025 | Culture

Tartu Buzz—Old Town Festival

Tartu Buzz—Old Town Festival

One of Tartu’s most coveted events begins later this week as the Old Town will come to life on … Read more