THE SOUND OF WINGS – TÕNU KÕRVITS

Tõnu Kõrvits, the Estonian composer known for his evocative compositions, takes flight once again in his latest opus, “The Sound of Wings” (2022). This profound work, the third installment in a trilogy for chorus and string orchestra, explores the enigmatic and daring life of aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart. Kõrvits, alongside the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, and conductor Risto Joost, delivers a captivating musical narrative that delves into themes of courage, life, death, and loss through the lens of Amelia Earhart’s extraordinary journey.

The album begins with the instrumental prelude “On the line…,” where the viola’s poignant melody acts as a recurring anchor throughout the composition. This introductory piece is reminiscent of the contemplative works of Vaughan Williams, setting a reflective mood that echoes the introspective nature of the subsequent movements. The nine-part structure unfolds with distinct sections, each exploring different facets of Earhart’s life and legacy.

“Running North and South…” follows, an instrumental interlude that bridges the narrative. The subsequent parts continue to unveil the story with titles like “The Touch of Your Hand,” “In the Currency of Courage,” and “Thus Speaks the Heart.” Kõrvits’s musical language beautifully captures the emotional layers of Earhart’s journey, ranging from intimate feelings to the price of courage and endeavor.

Part IV, “One Love,” is a standout moment, with alto Marianne Pärna’s solo voice seamlessly intertwining with the wordless chorus, creating a deeply moving aria that touches the heart. In “Lighthouse” (Part VI), the search for Howland Island’s guiding light is depicted through both the music and lyrics, conveying a sense of both anticipation and loneliness.

The celestial navigation of “The Star Stream” (Part VII) brings shimmering stars to life with a four-voice canon of soprano and alto soloists, a truly magical sonic moment. Part VIII, “Over Looking Glass Water,” delves into the element where Earhart and her navigator vanished, making it one of the most contemplative segments in the composition.

As the journey culminates in Part IX, Kõrvits masterfully weaves recurring motifs and phrases, including the titular “tiibade hääl” (the sound of wings), tying the work together thematically. The concluding moments build to an ecstatic climax, with the choir, orchestra, and solo soprano (Mariliis Tiiter) soaring to new heights while the meditative viola gently fades away.

Kõrvits’s skillful command of both instrumental and choral writing shines throughout “The Sound of Wings.” His ability to create a textured musical landscape, along with the interplay of recurring musical and verbal motifs, reinforces the composition’s structural integrity. The performance on this recording is impeccable, with Laur Eensalu’s viola playing a vital role, the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir delivering outstanding vocals, and the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra providing unwavering support under the direction of Risto Joost.

The album’s concluding piece, “Pühapäevasoov – Sunday Wish,” offers a heartfelt encore, a short song originally composed for female voices and later arranged for soprano, female voices, and strings. Mariliis Tiiter’s soprano performance adds a final touch of emotional resonance, drawing the album to a poignant close.

In “The Sound of Wings,” Tõnu Kõrvits pays tribute to Amelia Earhart’s courageous spirit, creating a multi-dimensional sonic experience that traverses the skies of emotion and imagination. This album is a testament to Kõrvits’s prowess as a composer and orchestrator, as well as the exceptional talents of the performers involved. “The Sound of Wings” stands as a captivating musical journey that commemorates the life and legacy of a pioneering aviator through the power of sound and emotion.