This year's best young folk musician is 17-year-old Reinhold Omel. The competition took place at the folk music center in Viljandi. 49 young people participated, who are learning folk music in music or hobby schools or from private teachers.
The competition featured 49 young folk musicians who performed 53 acts. The jury listened to two different Estonian folk music pieces. Reinhold Omel won the competition, which was held for the 17th time. He studies at the Heino Eller Music School and his teacher is Susanna Viktoria Mõtsmees. Reinhold says that the bagpipe is played little in Estonia. He wants to increase the recognition of this musical style.
The best performer of original compositions was Kaisa Helena Jalak. She plays the mandolin, and her teacher is also Susanna Viktoria Mõtsmees. Kaisa has been creating music for some time. She says she has fewer than 20 songs, but more are coming. She enjoys experimenting and does not follow others' styles.
The competition recognized 27 winners in different age and instrument categories. Jury chairman Ants Johanson was surprised at how many young people are interested in folk music. He emphasized that such wonderful moments are made possible by the cooperation of teachers and parents.