Vello Jurtom drove Modern Fox to perform at the Eiffel Tower

Musician Vello Jurtom recalls driving 12 members of the band Modern Fox from Estonia to Paris by bus for a performance at a restaurant in the Eiffel Tower. He shared the story on ERR’s television programme Prillitoos.

Jurtom said the group had caught the attention of a French businessman while performing at an upscale restaurant in Finland. The businessman invited them to play at his company’s anniversary party. With 12 musicians to transport, flying was too expensive, so Jurtom booked an Ikarus bus for the journey.

Jurtom began working as a guitarist for the Philharmonic’s variety orchestra after returning from military service in autumn 1968. He later played in Olav Ehala’s band, which accompanied young soloists including Jaak Joala, Oleg Melnik, Boris Lehtlaan and Ivo Linna. He also worked with Palderjan and Tarmo Pihlap, and organised concerts for Joala, Palderjan and Apelsin.

Jurtom said he had been passionate about alpine skiing throughout his life and later took up surfing. He ran a surf club in Pirita for nine years and went on boat and windsurfing trips. He believes his sense of humour has also helped him stay energetic: “I’ve never taken anything seriously, least of all myself.”

Now retired for 17 years, Jurtom said he still enjoys playing music and is happy to continue.