Foto: Kaupo Kikkas
Orchestral Tools (virtual instruments for making music productions) presents new collection Tallinn which features the distinctive sound of the EPCC alongside with the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra and two organs, all recorded in the rich acoustic space of Estonia’s iconic Niguliste (St. Nicholas Church). With a pure, wintry sound that reflects a Nordic aesthetic, the library is well suited for everything from early music to contemporary minimalist and avant-garde compositions.
“We’re extremely excited about this collection,” says Hendrik Schwarzer, Orchestral Tools CEO and founder. “We were fortunate to have the opportunity to record these incredible singers and players in their beautiful hometown, in a space that they know well. We’ve made every effort to capture not only the unique sound but also the feeling the sound evokes. And I think we’ve succeeded — it’s been an incredible experience, and we’re looking forward to hearing the music that people create with Tallinn.”
The Tallinn choir presents the sound of the EPCC with samples incorporating male and female singers across four vocal parts. With a focus on quiet vocal textures and long tones, the choir can produce dark, moody passages as well as serene, calming moments. Recorded syllables based on the Estonian language add a local, Baltic flavor unlike any other vocal library.
The Tallinn strings present the violins, violas, celli, and basses of the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra. With a minimalist, icy surface and a warm core, these strings are perfect for both ethereal, meditative parts and dark, thrilling cues. In addition to basic articulations, the strings offer multiple long and short notes, plus flageolet, tremolo, and extra-long sustains. Pure tones—without vibrato—generate a modern and distinctly Estonian sound.
By recording these specific voices and instruments in the rich acoustic space of Niguliste, the collection has captured a particularly Estonian sound aesthetic. It’s a sound that has become synonymous with renowned Estonian composer Arvo Pärt, whose Grammy Award-winning Da Pacem was recorded by the EPCC largely in the same church.
Look more: https://www.orchestraltools.com/store/collections/tallinn
Interviews with Michael Pärt and Hendrik Schwarzer: https://youtu.be/1Do07B922Ms
Interview with Tõnu Kaljuste: https://youtu.be/lHHy2dewiM8
Interviews with the singers of the EPCC: https://youtu.be/LQRw68_GEtQ