Lepo Sumera

Lepo Sumera ( born May 8, 1950 in Tallinn, † June 2, 2000 ) was an Estonian composer and politician. From 1988 to 1992 he served as Estonian Minister of Culture.

Training

Lepo Sumera employed since childhood with the music. From 1957 to 1964 he studied accordion at the Tallinn School of Music before joining 1964-1968 on the Tallinn Music High School. He studied at the Estonian Music Academy in Tallinn. Especially his teacher Veljo Tormis (* 1930) and from 1968 Heino Eller ( 1887-1970 ) have influenced him. After Ellers death he continued his studies with Heino Jürisalu (1930-1991), which he completed in 1973. From 1979 to 1982 he attended the Moscow Conservatory under Roman Ledenyov part in a postgraduate program. From 1978 until his death he taught composition at the Estonian Academy of Music.

Work

Sumera was a pioneer of electro-acoustic music and computer music. He also has six symphonies and numerous works for chamber music composed. He became internationally known through his film scores, which show a special empathy for mood pictures. In Estonia, also known for his choral compositions. Particular importance is the Seenekantaat - a cantata Mushroom (1978 /83), the text of which is composed of the Latin fungus name.

Most important compositions

• In memoriam (1972 )
• Symphony No. 1 (1981 )
• Pikseloits (1983)
• Symphony No. 2 (1984 )
• Symphony No. 3 (1988 )
• Concerto for Piano and Orchestra ( 1989)
• Symphony No. 4, Serena borealis (1992 )
• Hobuste ballet (1992 )
• Musica tenera (1992 )
• Symphony No. 5 (1995 )
• Symphony No. 6 (2000)

Private life

Lepo Sumera was married to the pianist Kersti Einasto. Together the couple had two daughters and a son.