VABARIIGI PILLIMEES on tour: JUHAN UPPIN & MARTIN ARAK

Two musicians, Juhan Uppin and Martin Arak, both awarded with the title of Vabariigi Pillimees (best solo musician in Estonia), are touring in Estonia from 21st October to 19th November.

Juhan Uppin (Vabariigi Pillimees 2018) is usually accompanied by his Estonian diatonic accordion, but he has also mastered a special type of zither - päkarauakannel - and studied its history and different ways of playing. He is one of the most skilled players of traditional style and is also broadening the repertoire of traditional instruments and playing techniques. He has a PhD in traditional music.  

Martin Arak (Vabariigi Pillimees 2020), known as Kandle-Oss, is a simple man from Rõngu, who loves to play Estonian traditional zither rahvakannel the way our forefathers did. Martin represents the third generation of folk musicians in his family and charms the audience with his charisma, fast fingers and warm-heartedness. When he starts singing, then everyone within miles will want to join in!