Nearly 600 young wind musicians compete in Türi

Some 570 young musicians from 20 ensembles competed in Türi on Saturday at a youth orchestra contest named after Helmut Orusaar, ERR reported.

The first group to perform before the jury was the trumpet ensemble from Pärnu-Jaagupi Music School, led by Kaido Kivi. Gregory-Marcus Lensment, who has played trumpet for five years, said he hoped to become a good musician and represent Estonia. He said he might study or work abroad in the future.

Trumpeter Jasper Kübar said he was a little nervous about performing as a soloist with Paganamaa Brass. Playing music was important to him because it “fills life,” he said.

Meelika Välimäe, who conducts Paganamaa Brass and the wind orchestra of Kohila School of Arts, said it was not difficult to attract young players to the orchestra. Attendance at rehearsals was good, and the group had a fun atmosphere, she said.

The contest, named after trumpeter, conductor and music educator Helmut Orusaar, was held for the second time. Youth orchestras were assessed in four groups based on ensemble size and in three categories based on playing level.

Jury chair Riivo Jõgi, artistic director of the next general song festival, said the ensembles performed their usual rehearsal and concert repertoire, rather than music from the festival programme. He hoped the contest would encourage the young musicians and give them joy and energy for the future.