Tõrva, Estonia – The town of Tõrva is set to become a summer music hotspot when the Tõrva 100 Opera Days festival opens its doors on Friday, 3 July 2026 and concludes on Saturday, 4 July 2026. The event marks the 100th anniversary of the town and will bring together a world‑class roster of soloists, Estonia’s premier orchestras and choirs, and an unlikely mix of opera, film music, and jazz.
A Two‑Night Musical Journey
July 3 – Gershwin Gala
The first evening will launch with George Gershwin’s iconic orchestral work, Rhapsody in Blue, before launching into a full‑scale performance of Porgy and Bess. The opera made its Estonian debut in Tõrva in 1998, becoming the country’s largest open‑air production. Its return here after 28 years is a historic highlight of the centenary celebrations.
| Performer | Role | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Pumeza Matshikiza | Soprano | South Africa |
| Luthando Qave | Baritone | South Africa |
| Dmitry Pavlov | Piano | Finland |
| Collegium Musicale Chamber Choir | Ensemble | Estonia |
| Huik Mixed Choir | Ensemble | Estonia |
| Pärnu City Orchestra | Orchestra | Estonia |
| Conductor: Henri Christofer Aavik |
July 4 – Bond Film Music Gala
The second evening pivots to the world of James Bond, presenting a spectacular gala of the franchise’s theme songs and signature motifs. Estonian and international soloists—including Estonian mezzo‑soprano Monika‑Evelin Liiv and Australian tenor Samuel Sakker—will bring the film scores to life with the power of the Pärnu City Orchestra.
| Performer | Role | Origin |
|---|---|---|
| Pumeza Matshikiza | Soprano | South Africa |
| Monika‑Evelin Liiv | Mezzo‑soprano | Estonia |
| Samuel Sakker | Tenor | Australia |
| Tanja Mihhailova | Soloist | Estonia |
| Koit Toome | Soloist | Estonia |
| Aminata Savadogo | Soloist | Latvia |
| Conductor: Henri Christofer Aavik |
Weatherproof Innovation
All concerts will be staged in Estonia’s largest temporary indoor concert hall, erected on the Central Square (Valga Street 5). Designed specifically for the festival, the venue offers superior acoustics and protects audiences from the unpredictable July weather—ensuring an uninterrupted, high‑quality musical experience.
After Hours: Jazz & Nightlife
The festivities continue well into the night. Both evenings conclude with a jazz‑infused after‑party at Tõrva Central Square. The internationally acclaimed Philly Joe’s Jazz Club—normally based in Tallinn’s Freedom Square, will relocate to Tõrva, creating a unique, late‑night ambiance. DJ Reigo Ahven will curate a playlist of top‑tier tracks, keeping the summer night alive until the early hours.
Tickets for Tõrva Opera Festival are availabe on sviby
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