Conference and Choir Concert “Juhan Liiv 160”

Juhan Liiv is one of the most remarkable Estonian poets, whose creation ignites and speaks the readers over the ages. Contemporary discussion surrounds not only the mark Liiv left in Estonian literature and culture, but his unique, yet mostly undiscovered place in world literature. The jubilee event gave the stage to the top Estonian literary scholars and artists whose works have been inspired by Juhan Liiv in one way or another.

On the 30th of April 2024 marked the 160th birthday of Juhan Liiv, one of Estonia’s most significant poets. The anniversary was celebrated with the literary conference and Pärt Uusberg’s author concert for Juhan Liiv’s texts at the Alatskivi Manor.

Juhan Liiv is a unique and timeless author, but only recently his exceptionalism in world literature has started to gain attention. The conference opened Liiv’s work through a new, broader perspective. At the same time, his contribution to Estonian culture, which has retained its novelty, has not been forgotten. Liiv’s work continues to be inspiring, offering possibilities for new interpretations.

At the conference “Juhan Liiv at the center of Estonian culture and at the threshold of world literature”, the stage was taken by Jüri Talvet, Liina Lukas, Mart Velsker, Ene-Reet Soovik, Rahel Ariel Kaur, Saara Lotta Linno, Joonas Hellerma and Tanar Kirs.

Composer Pärt Uusberg’s author concert of Juhan Liiv’s texts began at 19.00. The chamber choir Head ööd, Vend, the chamber choir JÕUD and soloist Mikk Dede performed under the lead of Pärt Uusberg.

Juhan Liiv 160 was a part of the European Capital of Culture Tartu 2024 main programme.

The event opens up Estonian literary classics from a new perspective, creating connections between local and world cultural history.