Role

:

Composer

Country

:

Estonia

Birth

:

September 7, 1913 in Suure-Jaani

Death

:

March 24, 1964 in Tallinn, Estonia

 

Villem Kapp was a renowned Estonian composer who was born on November 7, 1913, in the city of Tartu, Estonia. He was the son of a well-known Estonian composer, Artur Kapp, who was also a professor of music at the Tartu Higher Music School. Villem Kapp grew up in a musical family and was exposed to music from a very young age. He showed an early interest in music and began studying piano and composition at the Tartu Higher Music School. In 1932, Villem Kapp moved to Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia, to continue his studies at the Tallinn Conservatory. He studied composition under the guidance of Artur Kapp, his father, and Heino Eller, a prominent Estonian composer. During his time at the conservatory, Villem Kapp also studied conducting and piano. He graduated from the conservatory in 1937 with a degree in composition. After completing his studies, Villem Kapp began working as a music teacher at the Tallinn Music School. He also worked as a conductor and pianist for various orchestras in Estonia. In 1940, he was appointed as the conductor of the Estonian National Opera, a position he held until 1944. During World War II, Estonia was occupied by the Soviet Union. Villem Kapp continued to work as a composer and conductor during this time, but his music was heavily censored by the Soviet authorities. Despite this, he managed to compose several works that were well-received by audiences in Estonia. After the war, Villem Kapp continued to work as a composer and conductor in Estonia. He composed music for various ensembles, including orchestras, choirs, and chamber groups. He also wrote music for films and theater productions. One of Villem Kapp's most famous works is his Symphony No. 2, which he composed in 1951. The symphony is a powerful and emotional work that reflects the struggles and hardships of the Estonian people during the Soviet occupation. The symphony was well-received by audiences and critics alike and is considered one of the greatest works of Estonian classical music. In addition to his symphonies, Villem Kapp also composed several operas, including "The Last Chieftain" and "The Ghost of Canterville." He also wrote numerous choral works, including "The Song of Estonia," which has become a beloved national anthem in Estonia. Villem Kapp was a prolific composer who wrote music in a variety of styles and genres. His music is characterized by its emotional depth, lyrical melodies, and rich harmonies. He was a master of orchestration and was able to create powerful and evocative soundscapes with his music. In addition to his work as a composer, Villem Kapp was also a respected conductor and music educator. He taught at the Tallinn Conservatory and was a mentor to many young Estonian composers. Villem Kapp passed away on August 26, 1964, at the age of 50. His legacy as one of Estonia's greatest composers lives on through his music, which continues to be performed and celebrated by musicians and audiences around the world.

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