The most-watched domestic music event of the year, Estonian Song Contest, is coming to Tartu on 20 January to celebrate the start of the Capital of Culture year. This time, there will be only one grand semi-final with 15 competing artists.
According to Marili Vihmann, Head of Marketing and Communications for European Capital of Culture Tartu 2024, it is important that major events traditionally held in Tallinn also take place in Tartu and Southern Estonia. “Estonian Song Contest is an excellent example of how Tartu 2024 attracts events from different parts of Estonia to celebrate together and honour the title year of the European Capital of Culture.”
Vihmann adds that the Estonian Song Contest and the Capital of Culture will join forces to introduce to the viewers Tartu-themed interludes filled with bold humour. However, she does not yet reveal the authors and content. “These creators are well-known throughout Estonia, and we believe that they will resonate with everyone,” says Vihmann, promising more details next week.
Karmel Killandi, Editor-in-Chief of ERR Entertainment Programs, is proud to return to the City of Good Thoughts: “Where else, if not in Tartu – the new European Capital of Culture – would our most popular song contest choose its representative for Eurovision. Naturally, we will also broadcast all other interesting events from Southern Estonia to homes across the country on our various channels throughout the year.”
Competing for a place in the finals are 5MIINUST x Puuluup, Anet Vaikmaa, Antsud, Cecilia, Ewert and The Two Dragons, INGA, Ingmar, Laura, Multikas and Ewert Sundja, OLLIE, Peter Põder, Silver Jusilo, Sofia Rubina, Traffic, and YONNA.
The evening will be hosted by Grete Kuld and Tõnis Niinemets.
Doors open at 5.30 p.m. The Estonian Song Contest will take place at the University of Tartu Sports Hall. An autograph session with the artists is scheduled from 6 – 6.30 p.m. ETV will start the live broadcast at 6.45 with a glamorous pink carpet reception. The live broadcast of the contest begins at 7.15.
The European Capital of Culture title year encompassing a quarter of Estonia will commence with the grand opening ceremony “All Becomes One!” in Tartu on 26 January at 7.00 p.m.