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We Are Story Tellers
Estonian Voices in Ottawa: A Spellbinding A Cappella Performance at the NAC
Estonian Voices in Ottawa brings the award-winning a cappella sextet from Estonia, captivated a sold-out crowd at the Fourth Stage of the National Arts Centre. Blending folk, jazz, classical, and pop influences, the group delivered a vibrant and immersive performance that transported the audience into a world of sound and story.
The Performance
As the lights dimmed and the room fell into a calm hush, Estonian Voices in Ottawa stepped onto the stage and immediately captivated the crowd. In a stunning opener, the six vocalists mimicked the sounds of woodland birds, weaving together harmonies that painted the serene ambiance of a misty forest. The atmosphere shifted instantly. It felt as though the audience had been transported to a peaceful natural world created entirely through sound.
Their hour-long performance unfolded like a journey through emotion and creativity. Rich vocal textures and inventive arrangements kept the energy flowing from start to finish. The audience was drawn in even more during the playful tune titled Mmmlalallaa, where participation was encouraged. This moment of shared fun created a lively and intimate bond between performers and listeners. Kadri Voorand introduced each group member in a melodic and lighthearted sing-song fashion while the others supported her with gentle harmonies, displaying the group’s remarkable unity.
A Perfect Mix of Humor and Heartfelt Moments
Throughout the night, Estonian Voices in Ottawa explored meaningful themes through their music. One song carried the reminder that if you want to achieve something, you need to start today. Another piece tapped into the deep human longing to be truly seen and understood, and the crowd responded with quiet appreciation. These lyrical messages added emotional depth to the already vibrant performance.
The group also used humor to great effect, keeping the mood bright and joyful. They joked about how Estonians are a rare species, with only 1.4 million people worldwide, making every performance a little more special. Their native language, they teased, works like a secret code that lets them say funny things in public without being understood by most. Laughter filled the room during these moments. Later, they performed a song originally written by their friends from the band Curly Strings. With a playful grin, they shared how Curly Strings once admitted that Estonian Voices may have performed it even better. It was a delightful example of friendship and talent.
Applause erupted between every song. The group’s flawless timing, heartfelt delivery, and warm presence made the night unforgettable. Estonian Voices in Ottawa proved they are not just incredibly skilled but also deeply relatable. With every performance, they continue to grow their global fanbase and shine as one of the most captivating vocal ensembles on the international stage.
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