Orchestral Tools announces the release of Tallinn a new collection that features the distinctive sound of the highly acclaimed Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir and the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra plus 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 eort 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 is the sound of the Grammy Award–winning Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, with samples incorporating male and female singers across four vocal parts. With a focus on quiet vocal textures and long tones, the Tallinn 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 esteemed 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 oer multiple long and short notes, plus flageolet, tremolo, and extra-long sustains. Pure tones—without vibrato—generate a modern and distinctly Estonian sound.
Tallinn also includes both the primary organ and the chancel organ of Niguliste. Incorporating select registers and bass samples, the Tallinn organs match the sonic atmosphere of the choir and chamber orchestra.
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 same choir largely in the same church.
Availability
Tallinn is available for pre-order exclusively from the Orchestral Tools online store for a special price of €249 from April 21 until May 4, 2021. The collection will be available for download from May 5 for a special intro price of €299. The intro oer ends on May 19, and the regular price for the collection is €399.