Dive into the captivating life story of Peeter Lilje, Estonia's renowned conductor, whose existence was a symphony in itself. "Peeter Lilje. Elu kui paljutõotav algus" is a comprehensive 500-page biography enriched with an abundance of photographs that invites you to experience the intense and music-filled journey of a passionate artist.
Peeter Lilje, who lived from 1950 to 1993, was a maestro whose baton guided the Estonian National Symphony Orchestra (ERSO) through more than 400 concerts and led to nearly 200 recordings of Estonian compositions for the Estonian Radio. His repertoire was vast, spanning over 40 vocal-symphonic works and 30 operas, with a particular affinity for the music of Brahms, Sibelius, Tchaikovsky, Mahler, and Shostakovich. Lilje's profound connection to music resonated deeply, reaching the core of absolute music and touching countless hearts, as noted by Paul-Eerik Rummo.
The book's foreword, penned by Tiina Mattisen, reflects on the challenging societal times in Estonia (and the broader Soviet Union) during Lilje's active years as a conductor from 1979 to 1993. It was a period marked by a steep decline that the young musician had to navigate with determination to serve the needs of music, musicians, and music lovers. While the historical context is lightly touched upon, the narrative is not solely about Peeter Lilje; it also encapsulates the story of his contemporaries and peers, the generation of new winds, and offers an insightful look into a tumultuous decade for the nation's flagship orchestra.
Authored by Tiina Mattisen, Maia Lilje, and Ene Pilliroog, with contributions from Maarja Kasema and Tiina Mattisen, this biography is not just a tribute to a remarkable individual but also a reflection of an era and a community that shaped the cultural landscape of Estonia. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the life of a man who was not just a musician but music itself, as aptly described by Mikk Mikiver: "Sensitive, vulnerable, delicate. And fierce when music was replaced with mere notes. That was Peeter Lilje. But Peeter, the neighbor I knew, simply Peeter, was not just a musician; he was music."
Embark on a journey through the pages of "Peeter Lilje. Elu kui paljutõotav algus" and let the maestro's story inspire you as it has inspired generations of music lovers and musicians alike.
