Eesti Gruuv

Performing on stage is music infused with the spirit of the wider world that seeped into Estonia despite the Iron Curtain and occupation, performed by an orchestra assembled specifically for this program alongside a rhythm section and backing vocalists, under the direction of conductor Riivo Jõgi.

In the 1970s and 1980s, compositions featuring elements of funk, soul, and jazz echoed throughout Estonian cafes, on the radio, and at parties. Alongside the repertoire of Apelsin, Els Himma, Marju Kuut, and Gunnar Graps, as well as songs by other local writers, the performance features tracks recorded almost in secret late at night in Estonian Radio’s Studio 1, alongside Western hits. Their Estonian arrangements and lyrics were born out of Motown, Atlantic, and Columbia Records tracks caught via Finnish radio waves.

Initiated in collaboration with Eesti Kontsert, the “Eesti Gruuv” (Estonian Groove) special project was inspired by the Groove of ESSR compilation album, which gives forbidden and forgotten music a second chance in the free world. In this way, the composers of that era, their descendants, and today’s audience can enjoy a piece of our musical treasure trove in a live and powerful performance.