Laulupeo rongkaik 2007
In 2007 it was the second time for the Toronto Estonian School Choir to travel to Estonia. The Youth Song Festival “Ilmapuu” was the biggest of its kind yet – uniting the voices of thousands of young people into one. This our “home” in Tallinn was the Pirita TOP Spa hotel, almost a walking distance away from the Festival grounds. The traditional tour was a little longer this time - and of course memorable as always. You can download and look at the “Ringsõit 2007″ itinerary.
Here is an amazing MAP of the trip, created by Jeff Forma
It was even more fun as the festival was meant for young people! An amazing experience was to see the choirs sing together with Tõnis Mägi, “Looja, hoia Maarjamaad…”
This year as well Mr. Edgar Marten took the time to share the excitement in his 11-part trip diary on the pages of ”Eesti Elu”:
Toronto Eesti Koolikoori Laulureis 2007 – 1. osa - After some hassles at the Toronto Airport the trip got into a nice start. In Tallinn, the evening was spent settling down in our place of accommodation for the Festival week – the Pirita TOP SPA Hotel.
Toronto Eesti Koolikoori Laulureis 2007 – 2. osa - The sightseeing starts with the KUMU – The Art Museum. Then the Dance Festival dress rehearsal recital – and a choir rehearsal afterwards.
Toronto Eesti Koolikoori Laulureis 2007 – 3. osa - A busy day with lots of choir practice and new friendships.
Toronto Eesti Koolikoori Laulureis 2007 – 4. osa - Finally the day of the Song Celebration. After the traditional festival procession the voices of over 23,000 filled the “Laulukaar” - and the hearts of all participants and spectators.
Toronto Eesti Koolikoori Laulureis 2007 – 5. osa - Exploring Tallinn – City Museum, Viru Centre, President’s Palace – and finally the fascinatingly medieval Old Town.
Toronto Eesti Koolikoori Laulureis 2007 – 6. osa - From the old farm-houses in the Rocca al Mare Open Air Museum to the “Fight for Freedom” museum – explaining how our grandparents ended up far from their homeland…
Toronto Eesti Koolikoori Laulureis 2007 – 7. osa - The open road awaits: the forests of Lahemaa National Park, the sleepy resort town Võsu, Sagadi Manorhouse, Rakvere Castle, Sinimäed, Narva-Jõesuu… Then Narva, the “end” of Europe, a dip in the Lake Peipsi and on to Tartu, Estonia’s university town.
Toronto Eesti Koolikoori Laulureis 2007 – 8. osa - The rain and the wind were not able to spoil this busy day… A voyage on the river boat along the Emajõgi, discovering Tartu and a festive evening in the “Atlantis”. The next day the road took us to Kiidjärve, from there along the Ahja river in kayaks to Taevaskoja, “the Hall of the Heavens”. After climbing the highest peak in Estonia (Suur Munamägi) the destination was Urvaste. The day got a nice ending with a wonderful concert in the Urvaste Church.
Toronto Eesti Koolikoori Laulureis 2007 – 9. osa - Hellenurme watermill, concert in the Nõo Church with the ESTudio choir, Adventure Park in Otepää… The next day on to Viljandi – and from there on to Pärnu.
Toronto Eesti Koolikoori Laulureis 2007 – 10. osa - Rain in Pärnu, just like last time! The plans for the beach were changed in favour of the Tervise Paradiis indoor water park. Next day brought along another voyage: to Muhumaa to see the Koguva Village and Pädaste Manor. And from there to the next island – Hiiumaa!
Toronto Eesti Koolikoori Laulureis 2007 – 11. osa - Island blueberries, lighthouse and stories of shipwrecks and pirates get the day started. After lunch back to the mainland and with an overnight in Haapsalu the bus returns to Tallinn. The last day in Tallinn and the whole trip receives a great ending at Tallink restaurant with the group and guests sharing their impressions and experiences. Many thanks to everyone who helped to make this dream trip a reality!