“Resonating Silence” A Capella Concert
Text Stewart Johnson Photo Visit Estonia / Rejoice Ensemble
“Helisev vaikus”, which means “Resonating Silence”, is a one-evening musical event in Tallinn that offers an immersive experience centred entirely on the human voice. Taking place on 8 May in the Hopneri Maja, or Hopner House, in the Old Town, the performance is designed as a quiet, focused alternative to the noise and pace of everyday urban life.
The programme is performed by the vocal ensemble Rejoice, which specialises in a cappella choral music. The concert features works that bridge ancient and modern traditions, combining early Eastern Christian sacred music with contemporary compositions. The repertoire includes pieces by notable composers such as Arvo Pärt, Cyrillus Kreek, and Igor Stravinsky, illustrating the evolution of sacred choral sound across centuries.
A defining feature of the concert is its purely vocal nature. There are no instruments or electronic enhancements, only unaccompanied voices. This stripped-back approach places emphasis on tone, harmony, and the acoustic qualities of the venue, allowing listeners to experience music in its most direct and intimate form. The organisers highlight the unique atmosphere created by this combination of human voice and space, encouraging deep listening and reflection.
The event is also notable because it presents the ensemble’s competition programme before it is performed internationally. Following the Tallinn concert, the group is set to travel to a choral competition in Poland, making this performance a rare opportunity for local audiences to hear the programme in advance.
More information about the ensemble is available here, and tickets are available here.
To learn more about this and similar topicsa capella music Arvo Pärt Choir Choral Music Events in Tallinn Hopneri Maja Rejoice
