Helena Tulve

WORKS FOR THE STAGE

Operas

  • Wölfe
    2022
    soloists, mixed choir, children's choir, symphony orchestra
    Libretto: Nina Gühlstorff
    Fp: June 24, 2022, Mecklenburg State Theatre, Schwerin, Germany. Cast: Morgane Heyse, Itziar Lesaka, Martin Gerke, Nicholas Isherwood, Marius Pallesen, Cornelia Zink and Markus Sung-Keun Park, Mecklenburg State Theatre's Children's Choir, Opera Chorus and Orchestra, conductor  Eckehard Stier, stage director Nina Gühlstorff
    Commissioned by: Mecklenburg State Theatre with the support of the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation
  • It Is Getting So Dark
    Chamber-opera
    2004
    65'
    female choir, flute, horn, percussion, viola, double bass, harp
    Text: Sei Shoaenagon “Pillow Book”
    Fp: Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Ann Õun (flute), Vigo Uusmäe (French horn), Madis Metsamart (percussion), Heili Eespere (viola), Mati Lukk (double bass), Eda Peäske (harp), cond. Paul Hillier, director Anu Lamp; June 16, 2004, Tallinn City Theatre
    Commissioned by: Paul Hillier

Musical and/or drama and/or dance works for stage

  • Visiones
    mystery
    2022
    90'
    vocal ensemble and soloists, mixed choir, kannel, 2 nyckelharpas, theorb, dulcian, double bass, organ, 2 French horns, baroque vocal- and instrumental ensemble
    Text: after fragments of sacred representation found in Santa Maria della Fava and the gospel of Mary Magdalene
    Fp: Vox Clamantis (conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve), Cappella Marciana (conductor Marco Gemmani), baroque ensemble of the Benedetto Marcello Conservatory of Venice, Anna-Liisa Eller (kannel), Marco Ambrosini and Angela Ambrosini (nyckelharpa), Alvise Zanella (theorb), Michele Fattori (dulcian), Alvise Mason (organ), stage director Marius Peterson; Septembre 21, 2022, St Mark's Basilica, Venice, the 66th International Festival of Contemporary Music of Venice Biennale
    Commissioned by: Venice Biennale with the support of the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation
  • Music for dance performnce "Tempo"
    Co-author Tatjana Kozlova-Johannes
    2017
    60'
    fixed media, sound objects
    Fp: August 19, 2017, Noblessner Harbour, produced by Väike Objekt A, Sõltumatu Tantsu Lava and Vaba Lava

WORKS FOR ORCHESTRA

Works for symphony orchestra

  • 2013
    15'
    symphony orchestra: 2222, 2200, 2, strings
    Fp: Glasperlenspiel Sinfonietta, conductor Andres Mustonen; July 18, 2013, Tartu St. John's Church, Glasperlenspiel Festival
    Commissioned by: Glasperlenspiel Festival
    Distributor: EMIC HT 014
  • Anastatica
    I Me kõrb on lõputu
    II Kaevud

    2011
    12'
    symphony orchestra: 2222, 2200, 1, strings
    Fp: Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, conductor Olari Elts; October 22, 2011, Estonia Concert Hall, Tallinn, festival NYYD. Uppsala Chamber Orchestra, conductor Olari Elts; January 26, 2012, Uppsala
    Commissioned by: Festival NYYD and Uppsala Chamber Orchestra
    Distributor: EMIC HT 016
  • Extinction des choses vues
    2007
    13'
    symphony orchestra: 3333, 4331, 1+4, piano, harp, strings
    Fp: Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, conductor Olari Elts; October 21, 2007, Estonia Concert Hall, festival "Nyyd"
    Commissioned by: Festival NYYD
    CD "Helena Tulve. Arboles lloran por lluvia", ECM (2014); Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, conductor Olari Elts
    Publisher: Edition Peters
  • 1999
    16'
    symphony orchestra: didgeridoo, 3333, 4330, 5, piano, harp, strings (16/14/12/10/8)
    Fp: Estonian National Opera’s Symphony Orchestra, Tommi Mansikka-Aho (didgeridoo), cond. Paul Mägi; November 23, 1999, Tallinn, Estonia Concert Hall, NYYD Festival
    Commissioned by: State Concert Institute Eesti Kontsert
    CD „Sula”, Estonian Radio (2005); Estonian National Symphony Orchestra, conductor Toomas Vavilov
    Manuscript

Works for chamber orchestra

  • Taeva ja maa vahel [Between Heaven and Earth]
    Part of the joint composition "Hiroshima - Nagasaki" by Malle Maltis, Liisa Hirsch, Tatjana Kozlova-Johannes, Helena Tulve, Toivo Tulev and Eugene Birman
    1. Taevas
    2. Eikusagil
    3. Langemine

    2015
    9'
    chamber orchestra: percussion, strings
    Fp: Glasperlenspiel Sinfonietta, conductor Andrus Kallastu; July 10, 2017, Tartu St. John's Church, Glasrperlenspiel Festival

Works for string orchestra

  • Hingamisveele [To the BreathingWater]
    2011
    15'
    string orchestra
    Fp: Munich Chamber Orchestra, conductor Alexander Liebreich; October 5, 2011, Ravensburg, October 6, 2011, München Prinzregententheater
    FpEst: Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, conductor Olari Elts; October 9, 2020, Estonia Concert Hall, Tallinn
    Commissioned by: musica femina münchen
    Publisher: Edition Peters

WORKS FOR SOLO INSTRUMENT(S) AND ORCHESTRA

Works for flute and orchestra

  • Hõbevalge [Silverwhite]
    Version of the piece with same name written in 2008
    2013
    17'
    flute, string orchestra
    Fp: Monika Mattiesen (flute), Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, conductor Mikk Murdvee; June 7, 2013, Tartu St. John's Church, Estonian Composers' Festival

Works for violin and orchestra

  • Hõbevalge [Silverwhite]
    2007/2008
    13'
    violin, string orchestra
    Fp: Jaakko Kuusisto (violin), Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, conductor Eri Klas; April 12, 2008, Lahti Sibeliustalo, Finland
    FpEst: Jaakko Kuusisto (violin), conductor Eri Klas; April 15, 2008, Tallinn Methodist Church
    Commissioned by: Republic of Estonia
    Publisher: Edition Peters

Works for cello and orchestra

  • 2018
    17'
    cello, string orchestra
    Fp: Leho Karin (cello), Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, conductor Risto Joost; October 4, 2018, Tallinn House of Blackheads
    Commissioned by: Tallinn Chamber Orchestra
    CD „New Estonian Orchestral Music“, Estonian Music Information Centre (2021); Leho Karin (cello), Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, conductor Risto Joost

Works for piano and orchestra

  • Südamaa [Heartland]
    2012/2014
    17'
    piano, symphony orchestra: 2222, 2221, 3, harp, strings
    Fp: Mihkel Poll (piano), Eesti National Symphony Orchestra, conductor Olari Elts; April 11, 2014, Estonia Concert Hall, Estonian Music Days Festival
    Commissioned by: Estonian National Symphony Orchestra

Works for two or more soloists and orchestra

  • L'ombre derrière toi
    2011
    16'
    3 gambas (soprano, tenor, bass), strings or string orchestra
    Fp: Tallinn Chamber Orchestra, soloists Tõnu Jõesaar, Leho Karin and Peeter Klaas, conductor Juha Kangas; January 21, 2012, Tallinn House of Brotherhood of Black Heads
    Commissioned by: Tallinn Chamber Orchestra
    CD „Estonian Premieres“, Alpha Classics (2022); Estonian Festival Orchestra, conductor Paavo Järvi
    Manuscript

WORKS FOR ENSEMBLE

Duos

  • Awe
    2023
    15'
    violin, piano
    Fp: Sarah Saviet (violin), Joe Houston (piano); October 28, 2023, Great Guild Hall, Tallinn, contemporary music festival "Afekt"
    Commissioned by: Festival "Afekt"
  • Farewell, farewell
    Obligatory piece at the Young Artist Competition 2022
    2021
    7'
    flute, piano
    Fp: Semi-finalists of the National Flute Association's Young Artist Competition; August 12, 2022, Chicago Hilton, USA
    Commissioned by: The National Flute Association (USA)
  • higher than the soul can hope and mind can hide [kõrgemale kui hing võib loota või meel varjata]
    Dedicated to Triin Ruubel and Juta Õunapuu-Mocanita
    2015
    13'
    2 violins
    Fp: Triin Ruubel, Juta Õunapuu-Mocanita (violins); April 12, 2015, 1st studio of Estonian Public Broadcasting, Estonian Music Days Festival
    Commissioned by: Estonian Music Days Festival
  • Pulss, mõõn ja voolamine [Pulse, Ebb and Flow]
    2012
    10'
    bass flute, piano
    Fp: Camilla Hoitenga (bass flute), Taavi Kerikmäe (piano); October 23, 2012, Estonia Concert Hall, Tallinn
    Commissioned by: State Concert Institute Eesti Kontsert
    Distributor: EMIC HT 009
  • Nagu jõgi mere poole [As a River Towards the Sea]
    Obligatory piece at the Contest for Estonian wind players and percussionists 2012
    2011
    7'
    saxophone, piano
    Fp: March 23, 2012, Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, the Republican Wind and Percussion Players’ Competition 2012
    Distributor: EMIC HT 001
    Manuscript
  • To Night-Travellers, the Light
    2009
    cello, piano
    Fp: Silver Ainomäe (cello), Marrit Gerretz-Traksmann (piano); April 22, 2009, Tallinn Town Hall, Estonian Music Days Festival 2009
    Commissioned by: Estonian Music Days Festival 2009
    Manuscript
  • Lendajad [Soarers]
    2005
    12'
    2 players: piccolo flute, flute, alto flute; piccolo flute, flute, bass flute
    Fp: Ensemble Cyberstudio: Monika Mattiesen, Neeme Punder; May 12, 2005, Theatre No99, Tallinn
    Commissioned by: Ensemble Cyberstudio
    CD „Monika Mattiesen. Manuscript”, Estonian Radio (2006); Monika Mattiesen (flutes), Neeme Punder (flutes)
    Manuscript
  • … il neige
    2004
    9'
    harpsichord, Estonian kannel
    Fp: Ene Nael (harpsichord), Kristi Mühling (Estonian kannel); April 5, 2004, Tallinn, IV International Harpsichord Days
    Commissioned by: International Harpsichord Days
    CD “Sula”, Estonian Radio (2005); Ene Nael (harpsichord), Kristi Mühling (kannel)
  • effleurements, éclatements…
    2003
    8'
    guitar, percussion
    Fp: Reinbert Evers (guitar), Stephan Froleyks (percussion); March 13, 2004, Köln, Deutschlandfunk, Sendesaal, Forum neuer Musik Köln 2004
    Commissioned by: DeutschlandRadio
  • Passage secret
    1999
    7'
    2 clarinets
    Fp: Tarmo Pajusaar, Meelis Vind; October 15, 2001, Estonian Academy of Music, NYYD Festival
    Commissioned by: NYYD Ensemble
    Manuscript
  • 1993
    7'
    violin, clarinet
    Fp: Maano Männi (violin), Tarmo Pajusaar (clarinet); March 22, 1994, Tallinn, Estonian Music Days Festival
    CD „Sula”, Estonian Radio (2005); Harry Traksmann (violin), Toomas Vavilov (clarinet)
    Distributor: EMIC HT 015
    Manuscript

Trios

  • Becoming Light – Music for Kaija
    2023
    13'
    tenor saxophone, accordion, double bass
    Fp: Trio Feedback: Ricard Capellino (tenor saxophone), Esteban Algora (accordion), Dario Calderone (double bass); September 17, 2023, Palau des Arts, Valencia, Spain, Festival Ensems
    Commissioned by: Trio Feedback with the support of the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation
  • 2020
    15'
    violin, cello, piano
    Fp: Harry Traksmann (violin), Leho Karin (cello), Marrit Gerretz-Traksmann (piano); September 20, 2020, Chamber Hall of Estonian National Opera, Estonian Music Days
    Commissioned by: Estonian Music Days
  • The Night Sea Journey
    2017
    16'
    saxophone, percussion, piano
    Fp: Trio Accanto (Marcus Weiss (saxophone), Christian Dierstein (percussion), Nicolas Hodges (piano); November 1, 2017, Museum of Estonian Architecture, International Contemporary Music Festival Afekt
    Commissioned by: Festival Afekt
  • 2015
    harp, harpsichord, kannel
    Fp: Ensemble Una Corda; October 29, 2015, Kadriorg Art Museum
    Commissioned by: Una Corda
  • Rimlands
    I secret garden – blanc
    II secret garden – noir
    III pathless land

    2012
    20'
    clarinet, cello, piano
    Fp: Paul Meyer (clarinet), Alban Gerhardt (cello), Thomas Larcher (piano); May 12, 2012, Casòn Hirschprunn, Italy, May 14, 2012, Swarovski Kristallwelten, Austria
    FpEst: Toomas Vavilov (clarinet), Leho Karin (cello), Diana Liiv (piano); November 26, 2013, Tallin Teachers' House
    Commissioned by: Swarovski tourism services gmbH, Alois Lageder / VIN-o-TON
    CD "Alive", Ansambel U: (2015); Ansambel U: (only 3rd part)
    Publisher: Edition Peters
  • Ma kuulsin sind laulmas [I Heard You Singing]
    2010
    15'
    3 percussionists
    Text: Tõnu Õnnepalu
    Fp: Percussion Ensemble PaukenfEst; May 21, 2010, Viljandi St. Paul Church; May 29, 2010, Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre Chamber Hall, festival PaukenfEst 10
    Commissioned by: Percussion Ensemble PaukenfEst
    Manuscript
  • Silmajad [Beholders]
    Version of the piece with the same title written in 2006
    2006/2009
    kannel, harp, harpsichord
    Fp: Ensemble Una Corda: Kristi Mühling (kannel), Liis Jürgens (harp), Ene Nael (harpischord); February 14, 2009, Kadriorg Palace, in the series of "Academic Chamber Music"
    CD "Una Corda", Una Corda (2011); Ensemble Una Corda: Liis Viira (harp), Kristi Mühling (kannel), Ene Nael (harpsichord) (arranged by Una Corda)
    CD „Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre 90“, ERR, EMTA (2009); Ene Nael (harpsichord), Kristi Mühling (kannel), Liis Jürgens (harp)
  • Silmajad [Beholders]
    2006
    7'
    3 kannels
    Fp: Kristi Mühling, Maarja Maasing, Liisi Laanemets; February 17, 2006, KUMU Art Museum
    Commissioned by: KUMU Art Museum
  • Version of the piece with the same title written in 2002
    2002/2004
    11'
    clarinet, cello, piano, 3 glasses
    Fp: New Baltic Trio: Andres Paas (piano), Marcis Kulis (clarinet), Vytautas Sondeckis (violoncello); August 9, 2004, 10th Kuressaare Chamber Music Days
  • 2002
    11'
    violin, cello, piano, 3 wine glasses
    Fp: New Tallinn Trio; May 7, 2002, Tallinn, Blackhead Brotherhood's House
    Commissioned by: State Concert Institute Eesti Kontsert
    CD „Sula”, Estonian Radio (2005); Harry Traksmann (violin), Leho Karin (cello), Marrit Gerretz-Traksmann (piano)
    Publisher: Edition Peters
    Manuscript

Quartets

  • There Are Tears at the Heart of Things
    2018
    15'
    alto flute, bass clarinet, harp, percussion
    Fp: Ensemble Adapter; February 17, 2018, Akademie der Künste Berlin
    Commissioned by: International Contemporary Music Festival Afekt
  • 2016
    13'30''
    harpsichord, violin, viola, cello
    Fp: Ensemble Nordic Affect; April 13, 2016, Kanuti Guild Hall, Tallinn, Estonian Music Days
    Commissioned by: Festival Estonian Music Days
  • les nuages parfois
    2009
    10'
    recorder quartet
    Fp: ensemble diferencias; May 28, 2010, Kulturraum H95 Basel; May 29, 2010, Kulturhaus Helferei Zürich; June 5, 2010, Dorfkirche Veltheim, Winterthur
    FpEst: ensemble diferencias; July 16, 2011, seaplane anghars of Estonian Maritime Museum, within Tallinn 2011 - European Capital of Culture
    Commissioned by: ensemble diferencias
  • 2006
    14'
    4 players: flute/piccolo/bass flute, clarinet/bass clarinet, violin, cello
    Fp: Seattle Chamber Players; October 29, 2006, Illsley Ball Nordstrom Recital Hall at Benaroya Hall, Seattle, USA
    FpEst: Ensemble Phoenix Basel, conductor Jürg Henneberger; October 18, 2007, Estonia Concert Hall, festival NYYD
    Commissioned by: Seattle Chamber Players
    Distributor: EMIC HT 005
  • 1997
    12'
    saxophone quartet
    Fp: Stockholm Saxophone Quartet; November 26, 1997, Tallinn, Estonia Concert Hall, NYYD Festival
    Commissioned by: State Concert Institute Eesti Kontsert
    CD "10 Years After", Estonian Authors' Society (2003); Stockholm Saxophone Quartet
    CD "Lijnen", ECM (2008); Stockholm Saxophone Quartet
    Publisher: Edition Peters
    Manuscript
  • Phainomenon
    1989/1990
    6'
    4 players: piano, celesta, synthesizer, marimba, tamtam, tape
    Fp: Mart Siimer (piano), Mait Meibaum (celesta), Kristo Rajasaare and Kaspar Eisel (percussion), cond. Andrus Kallastu; May 30, 1991, Tallinn

String quartets

  • nec ros, nec pluvia…
    2004
    10'
    string quartet
    Fp: Silesian String Quartet; April 13, Tartu, Vanemuise Concert Hall, Estonian Music Days Festival
    CD "Lijnen", ECM (2008); Silesian String Quartet
    Publisher: Edition Peters
    Manuscript

Quintets

  • 2012
    15'
    bassoon, string quartet
    Fp: Martin Kuuskmann (bassoon), Mari-Liis Päkk (violin), Triin Ruubel (violin), Mihhail Zemtsov (viola), Jason Calloway (cello); July 28, 2012, Pärnu Concert House, Järvi Summer Festival
    Commissioned by: Järvi Summer Festival
    CD „New Estonian Chamber Music“, Estonian Music Information Centre (2017); Martin Kuuskmann (bassoon), Mari-Liis Päkk (violin), Triin Ruubel (violin), Mihhail Zemtsov (viola), Jason Calloway (cello)
  • Version of the piece "stream" written in 2006
    2006/2011
    flute, clarinet, violin, cello, piano
    Fp: Ensemble Uusinta; March 24, 2011, Hall of Estonian Academy of Sciences, Estonian Music Days Festival
    Distributor: EMIC HT 013
  • Version of the piece "stream" written in 2006
    2006/2010
    flute, clarinet, violin, cello, percussion
    Fp: Ensemble U:; October 24, 2010, Arts Printing House, Vilnius, Lithuania, Festival GAIDA 2010
    Distributor: EMIC HT 012
  • Lethe
    1991
    6'
    flute, oboe, clarinet, cello, piano
    Fp: Tiina Pähklamägi (flute), Tõnis Traksmann (oboe), Tarmo Pajusaar (clarinet), Kaido Kelder (violoncello), Annika Kabel (piano); May 30, 1991, Tallinn
    Manuscript

Sextets

  • Emergence II. Sans fond ni rivage
    2020/2022
    16'
    alto flute, bass clarinet, violin, cello, percussion, piano, electronics
    Fp: Musiques Nouvelles; November 23, 2022, Bozar, Brussels, Belgium, festival "Ars Musica"
    FpEst: Ensemble U:; September 19, 2023, 1st studio of the Estonian Public Broadcasting
  • stream 3
    Version of the piece "stream" written in 2006
    2006/2021
    14'
    clarinet, trumpet, percussion (1 player), piano, violin, cello
    Fp: Ensemble Musikfabrik, conductor Clement Power; October 23, 2021, Noblessner Foundry, Tallinn, Internationl Contemporary Music Festival AFEKT
  • Emergence II. Sans fond ni rivage
    2020
    16'
    6 performers: alto flute, bass clarinet, violin, cello, percussion, piano + Justine Emard's installation/electronics
    Fp: Ensemble TM+, conductor Laurent Cuniot; December 2, 2021, La Seine Musicale, Boulogne-Billancourt, France
    Commissioned by: Ensemble TM+ / French Republic
  • Maa süda [Heart of the Earth]
    2017
    19'
    piano and ensemble: flute, clarinet, violin, cello, percussion
    Fp: Ensemble U:; April 8, 2017, Estonian Music Days
    Commissioned by: Festival Estonian Music Days
  • Languse ööl [At the Night of Decline]
    Version of the piece "in a nakht fun yeridah" written in 2006
    2006/2015
    16'
    flute, clarinet, violin, cello, percussion, piano
    Fp: Ensemble U:; December 10, 2015, MACRO, Rome, Festival Nuova Consonanza
  • Le reflet du reflet [Hommage à Pierre Boulez]
    2015
    flute/piccolo, clarinet in B, violin, cello, percussion, piano
    Fp: Ensemble U:; November 12, 2015, Kultuurikatel, Tallinn, French Culture Festival Accord
    Commissioned by: Ensemble U:
  • Version of the piece "stream" written in 2006
    Dedicated to Ensemble U:
    2006/2009
    14'
    flute, clarinet, violin, cello, percussion, piano
    Fp: Ensemble U:; April 16, 2009, Estonian National Opera Winter Garden, Estonian Music Days Festival 2009
    CD "U: new estonian music", MTÜ Ansambel U (2009); Ensemble U: Tarmo Johannes (flute), Meelis Vind (clarinet), Vambola Krigul (percussion), Taavi Kerikmäe (piano), Merje Roomere (violin), Levi-Danel Mägila (cello), Rein Oja (narrator)
    Distributor: EMIC HT 006

Septets

  • Every Spark Is Numbered I. Two Seas
    2015
    santūr, flute, oboe, clarinet, violin, viola, cello
    Fp: Pooyan Ataei (santūr), Tallinn New Music Ensemble, conductor Arash Yazdani; September 26, 2015, Chamber Hall of the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, Fresh Music Festival Autumnfest
    Commissioned by: Tallinn New Music Ensemble
  • 2001
    8'
    flute, oboe, clarinet, baritone saxophone, percussion, violin, double bass
    Fp: NYYD Ensemble, conductor Olari Elts; April 10, 2001, Tallinn, Rotermann's Salt Storage, Estonian Music Days Festival
    Commissioned by: Estonian Music Days Festival
    CD "Estonian Contemporary Classics. Estonian Composers II", Estonian Radio (2002); NYYD Ensemble, conductor Olari Elts
    Manuscript

Works for large ensemble (8+)

  • Where the Two Seas Meet?
    2010
    12'
    flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, trumpet, horn, trombone, mandoline, guitar, piano, percussion, 2 violins, viola, cello, double bass
    Fp: Ensemble INSOMNIO, conductor Ulrich Pöhl; April 2, 2010, Korzo Theatre, the Hague, the Netherlands
    Commissioned by: Deutschlandradio and ISCM
    Publisher: Edition Peters
  • 2005
    10'
    flute/piccolo flute, oboe, clarinet, mandolin, guitar, harp, piano, percussion, violin, viola, cello, double bass
    Fp: Nieuw Ensemble, conductor Ed Spanjaard; March 8, 2006, Utrecht, Netherlands
    FpEst: Uxus Ensemble, conductor Kaspar Mänd; April 19, 2018, Estonia Concert Hall, Tallinn, Estonian Music Days Festival
    Commissioned by: Nieuw Ensemble
    Manuscript
  • abysses
    2003
    10'
    solo flute, flute, oboe, bassoon, trombone, percussion, viola, cello
    Fp: Carin Levine (flute), Ensemble Courage, cond. Titus Engel; December 5, 2003, Leipzig, Matrix Herbstfestival
    FpEst: Monika Mattiesen (flute), NYYD Ensemble, conductor Olari Elts; October 14, 2005, Estonia Concert Hall, Tallinn, NYYD Festival
    Commissioned by: Ensemble Courage
    CD "Lijnen", ECM (2008); Emmanuelle Ophèle-Gaubert (flute), Mihkel Peäske (flute), NYYD Ensemble, conductor Olari Elts
    Publisher: Edition Peters
  • Cendres
    2001
    8'
    flute, clarinet in B, percussion (2 players), 2 pianos, violin, cello, double bass
    Fp: NYYD Ensemble, conductor Olari Elts; September 26, 2001, Warsaw Autumn Festival
    FpEst: NYYD Ensemble, conductor Olari Elts; October 13, 2001, Tallinn, Estonia Concert Hall, NYYD Festival
    Commissioned by: NYYD Ensemble
    CD "Lijnen", ECM (2008); NYYD Ensemble, conductor Olari Elts
    CD "Zeit-Ton 16.10.2003: Con misterio : Unbewusstes und Underground in neuen Werken aus Estland", ORF (2003). NYYD Ensemble, conductor Olari Elts
    Manuscript
  • à travers
    1998
    10'
    flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon, horn, trombone, percussion, 2 violins, viola, cello, double bass
    Fp: NYYD Ensemble, conductor Olari Elts; March 14, 1998, Assembly Hall of University of Tartu, Tartu New Music Festivities
    Commissioned by: NYYD Ensemble
    CD "Now", Elwood Muusik (2001); NYYD Ensemble, conductor Olari Elts
    CD "Lijnen", ECM (2008); NYYD Ensemble, conductor Olari Elts
    Publisher: Edition Peters
    Manuscript
  • Sinine [Blue]
    1998
    12'
    flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon, horn, trumpet, trombone, percussion, piano, 2 violins, viola, cello, double bass
    Fp: NYYD Ensemble, conductor Olari Elts; November 15, 1998, Tallinn, St. Nicholas's Church
    Commissioned by: NYYD Ensemble
    Manuscript

WORKS FOR SOLO INSTRUMENT

Works for flute

  • Feathers Falling
    2024
    flute
    Fp: Monika Mattiesen (flute); March 2, 2024, Arvo Pärt Centre

Works for oboe

  • Valvaja [Guard]
    2002
    8'
    oboe
    Fp: Kalev Kuljus (oboe); April 27, 2002, Viljandi
    Commissioned by: NYYD Ensemble
    CD „Klassikaraadio Comes to Visit!“, ERR (2015); Ingely Laiv (oboe)

Works for bassoon

  • Meandering
    2018
    8'
    bassoon
    Fp: Obligatory piece at the Estonian National Competition for Wind Instruments, December 11, 2018, Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, Organ Hall
    Commissioned by: Estonian Flute Association

Works for trumpet

  • 2022
    9'
    trumpet
    Fp: Joseph Skypala (trumpet); May 3, 2022 Royal Academy of Music, Angela Burgess Recital Hall, London
    Commissioned by: Royal Academy of Music 200 Solo Pieces Project
    Distributor: EMIC HT 018

Works for cello

  • Without love atoms would stop spinning
    2020
    12'
    cello
    Fp: Arlen Hlusko (cello); June 14, 2020, Bang on a Can Marathon (online concert)
    FpEst: Jaani Helander (cello); June 6, 2021, Tallinn House of Blackheads, Tallinn String Festival
    Commissioned by: Bang on a Can
    Distributor: EMIC HT 011

Works for double bass

  • Pimesi [Blindly]
    2018
    20'
    double bass
    Fp: Dario Calderone (double bass); April 15, 2018, Kanuti Guild Hall, Estonian Music Days Festival
    Commissioned by: Estonian Music Days Festival

Works for piano

  • Laula mulle õitsvast puust [Sing to Me about the Blooming Tree]
    2013
    7'
    piano
    Fp: Kalle Randalu (piano); December 17, 2013, Estonia Concert Hall, Tallinn
    Commissioned by: State Concert Institute Eesti Kontsert
    Distributor: EMIC HT 003
  • Three Songs [Kolm laulu]
    Obligatory piece at VII Estonian Pianists' Competition
    1. Night Song
    2. It Was a River in the Mountains, I Think
    3. It Is Evening, Light (Dedicated to Nora and Arvo Pärt)

    2008
    8'
    piano
    Fp: April 26, 2008, Chamber Hall of the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, VII Estonian Pianists' Competition
    Commissioned by: VII Estonian Pianists' Competition
    CD "20th century piano", Ondine (2009); Mihkel Poll (piano)
    Distributor: EMIC HT 002
    Manuscript
  • 2000
    10'
    piano
    Fp: Toomas Vana (piano); October 31, 2000, Tallinn, International Pianists´ Festival “Klaver” ("Piano")
    Commissioned by: State Concert Institute Eesti Kontsert
    Publisher: Estonian Music Foundation
    Distributor: EMIC HT 010
    Manuscript

Works for organ

  • Lacrimae rerum
    2022
    10'
    organ
    Fp: Ourania Gassiou (organ); August 13, 2022, Kassel Martinskirche, festival Brandneu, Germany
    Commissioned by: Kulturplattform St. Martin Kassel e. V. with the support of the Ernst von Siemens Music Foundation
  • Emergence III. Et les courants y sont plus forts
    2020
    9'
    organ
    Commissioned by: Philharmonie de Paris

Works for other instrument

  • Silmaja [Beholder]
    2006
    7'
    kannel
    Fp: Kristi Mühling (kannel); September 22, 2006, Toronto
    FpEst: Kristi Mühling (kannel); March 27, 2007, ArtDepoo gallery, Tallinn
    CD "Strings Attached. The Voice of Kannel", Harmonia mundi (2021); Anna-Liisa Eller (kannel)
    CD "Contemporary chamber and solo music for kannel", Kristi Mühling (2009). Ensemble Resonabilis: Kristi Mühling (kannel), Iris Oja (voice), Tarmo Johannes (flute), Aare Tammesalu (cello)
  • 1999
    7'
    harpsichord
    Fp: Jukka Tiensuu, 9.04.1999; Tallinn, II Harpsichord Days
    Commissioned by: Harpsichord Days
    CD „Sula”, Estonian Radio (2005); Irina Zahharenkova (harpsichord)
    Manuscript

VOCAL AND CHORAL MUSIC

  • Ole tervitatud, Maarja! [Hail Mary]
    2015
    1'
    1-voice song
    Text: traditional prayer (in Estonian)

Works for voice(s) and orchestra

  • Lament
    In memoriam Marju Lepajõe
    2019
    19'
    bass, sinfonietta
    Text: Hedi Rosma, quotes from the epic „Mahābhārata“, fragments of texts by Rūmī and Georg Mancelius
    Fp: Andreas Fischer (bass), Afekt Sinfonietta, conductor Andreas Fischer; October 28, 2019, Noblessner Foundry, Tallinn, International Contemporary Music Festival Afekt

Works for voice(s) and piano

  • Stella matutina
    2012
    18'
    voice, prepared piano
    Text: in Latin
    Fp: Performance from the recording: Kadri Hunt (voice), Helena Tulve (piano); September 6, 2012, Jevgeni Zolotko's exhibition "Things" at Tartu Art House: First performance: Kadri Hunt (voice), Helena Tulve (piano); May 16, 2013, St. Augustine's Church, Penarth, Wales, Vale of Glamorgan Festival
  • Sõnajalad [Ferns]
    1994
    11'
    mezzo-soprano (or baritone)/claves, piano
    Text: Karl Ristikivi
    Fp: Jean Pascal Ollivry (baritone), Catherine Boppe (piano); June 18, 1994, Abbaye de Fontfroide, France
    Commissioned by: Jean Pascal Ollivry, Catherine Boppe
    Manuscript

Works for voice(s) and other instrument(s)

  • The Narrow Road to the Deep North
    2019
    60'
    4 voices, recorder, percussion
    Text: Matsuo Bashō (in English)
    Fp: Partial premiere: Theatre of Voices, Michala Petri (recorder), Ying-Hsueh Chen (percussion), conductor Paul Hillier; September 27, 2019, Kings Place, London, UK
  • Voices I. As if dreaming
    2019
    Counter tenor, xiao, zheng, piano
    Text: Li Qingzhao (in English)
  • Ole tervitatud, Maarja! [Hail Mary]
    2015
    5'
    soprano, oboe
    Text: traditional prayer (in Estonian)
  • Sinna otsime teed tagasi [We Are Searching the Way Back There]
    2014
    23'
    mezzo-soprano, flute (alto flute nad bass flute), string quartet
    Text: Ernst Enno
    Fp: Kadri Tegelmann (mezzo-soprano), Camilla Hoitenga (flutes), Insomnia-Quartet; August, 24, 2014, Palamuse Church
    Commissioned by: MTÜ Look for the 780th anniversary of the first mention of Palamuse parish
  • Sool [Salt]
    2011
    15'
    soprano, percussion (2 players)
    Text: Maarja Kangro, Helena Tulve, Tarvo Hanno Varres
    Fp: Tui Hirv (soprano), Ensemble PaukenfEst; July 15, 2011, seaplane anghars of Estonian Maritime Museum
    Commissioned by: Tallinn 2011 - European Capital of Cultural
  • Mondnacht
    2010
    voice (soprano), kannel
    Text: J. von Eichendorff
    Fp: Eve Kopli (soprano), Kristi Mühling (kannel); May 9, 2010, Tallinn Kanuti Guild Hall, concert "Night Songs - Hommage à Robert Schumann"; June 13, 2010, Robert-Schumann-Saal, Schumannfest Düsseldorf
    Commissioned by: Schumannfest Düsseldorf
  • North Wind, South Wind
    2010
    14'
    voice, flute, Estonian kannel, cello
    Text: Song of Songs and Mawlânâ Jalâluddîn Rûmî (in English)
    Fp: Tui Hirv (soprano), ensemble Resonabilis (Tarmo Johannes - flute, Kristi Mühling - Estonian kannel, Aare Tammesalu - cello), September 1, 2010, Theatrum Hall, Tallinn, Walestonia 2010; September 5, 2010, St. Donats Arts Centre, St. Donats, Wales, Vale of Glamorgan Festival
    Commissioned by: ensemble Resonabilis
    CD "North Wind, South Wind", ERP (2012); Ensemble Resonabilis
  • L'Équinoxe de l'âme
    2008
    12'
    soprano, baroque harp, string quartet
    Text: Shahab al-Din Sohrawardî, translated by Henry Corbin (in French)
    Fp: Arianna Savall (soprano, harp), string quartet of NYYD Ensemble (Harry Traksmann, Juta Õunapuu, Torsten Tiebout, Leho Karin); October 7, 2008, Monaco, Opéra de Monte-Carlo
    FpEst: Eve Kopli (soprano, harp), string quartet of NYYD Ensemble; December 28, 2008, St. John's Church, Tallinn
    Commissioned by: Fondation Prince Pierre and SOGEDA
    CD "Helena Tulve. Arboles lloran por lluvia", ECM (2014); Arianna Savall (soprano, harp), NYYD Quartet (Harry Traksmann, Olga Voronova, Torsten Tiebout, Leho Karin)
  • Arboles lloran por lluvia
    2006
    10'
    soprano, counter tenor, male ensemble, nyckelharpa, sandpaper blocks
    Text: (in Ladino)
    Fp: Arianna Savall (soprano), Taniel Kirikal (counter tenor), Charles Barbier (countertenor), Janno Pokk (nyckelharpa), Vox Clamantis, conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve; November 24, 2006, St. Paul's Church, Basel, Festival Culturescapes
    FpEst: Arianna Savall (soprano), Taniel Kirikal (counter tenor), Janno Pokk (nyckelharpa), Vox Clamantis, conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve; December 8, 2006, Tartu St. John´s Church
    Commissioned by: Vox Clamantis
    CD "Helena Tulve. Arboles lloran por lluvia", ECM (2014); Arianna Savall (soprano), Taniel Kirikal (counter tenor), Marco Ambrosini (nyckelharpa), Vox Clamantis, conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve
  • In a nakht fun yeridah
    2006
    16'
    6 perfomers: soprano, clarinet, violin, cello, percussion, piano, accordion
    Text: Yankev Glatshteyn (in Yiddish)
    Fp: Ensemble Aleph; March 28, 2006, Kanuti Guild Hall, Tallinn, Estonian Music Days Festival
    Commissioned by: French Republic
  • silences / larmes
    2006
    10'
    3 performers: soprano, oboe, tuned glasses/wind chimes (mother of pearl)
    Text: Mother Immaculata Astre (in French)
    Fp: Kädy Plaas (soprano), Riivo Kallasmaa (oboe), Helena Tulve (glasses, wind chimes); March 29, 2006, Tallinn Methodist Church, Estonian Music Days Festival, Helena Tulve composer recital
    Commissioned by: Estonian Music Days Festival
    CD "Helena Tulve. Arboles Iloran por lluvia", ECM (2014); Arianna Savall (soprano), Riivo Kallasmaa (oboe), Helena Tulve (wind glasses, wind chimes)
  • Sõnajalad [Ferns]
    Version of the piece with the same title written in 1994
    1994/2006
    11'
    mezzo-soprano (or baritone)/claves, kannel
    Text: Karl Ristikivi
    Fp: Iris Oja (mezzo-soprano), Kristi Mühling (kannel); May 11, 2006, concert series ReVision of the ensemble Resonabilis
  • Reyah hadas 'ala
    2005
    16'
    vocal ensemble, instrumental ensemble
    Text: Shalom Shabazi
    Fp: Vox Clamantis, Hortus Musicus, conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve; April 27, 2005, St. Nicholas's Church, Tallinn
    Commissioned by: Vox Clamantis
    CD "Helena Tulve. Arboles lloran por lluvia", ECM (2014); Vox Clamantis, Hortus Musicus, conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve
  • Lijnen
    1. Lijnen
    2. Minimal
    3. Op eigen kracht
    4. Lijnen
    5. Density
    2003
    10'
    soprano, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, violin, viola, cello, double bass
    Text: Roland Jooris
    Fp: Anu Komsi (soprano), Reval Ensemble, cond. Risto Joost; October 19, 2003, Tallinn, Estonia Concert Hall, NYYD Festival
    Commissioned by: State Concert Institute Eesti Kontsert
    CD "Lijnen", ECM (2008); Arianna Savall (soprano), NYYD Ensemble, conductor Olari Elts
    Publisher: Edition Peters
    Manuscript
  • Ithaka
    2000
    11'
    soprano, violin, piano
    Text: Tõnu Õnnepalu, translated by Antoine Chalvin
    Fp: Iris Oja (soprano), Harry Traksmann (violin), Marrit Gerretz-Traksmann (piano); September 17, 2001, Estonian Theatre and Music Museum
    Commissioned by: Estonian Theatre and Music Museum
    CD „Sula”, Estonian Radio (2005); Eve Kopli (soprano), Harry Traksmann (violin), Marrit Gerretz-Traksmann (piano)
    Manuscript

Works for mixed choir a cappella

  • Gloria
    2023
    7'
    mixed choir
    Text: liturgical text (in Latin)
    Fp: Vox Clamantis, conductor  Jaan-Eik Tulve; June 4, 2023, Tallinn Dome Church
    Commissioned by: Vox Clamantis
  • Nächtliche Gesänge [Nocturnal Songs]
    I Nachts, wenn das Pendel der Liebe schwingt
    II Zärtliche Nacht

    2019
    13'
    mixed choir
    Text: Paul Celan, Hilde Domin (in German)
    Fp: Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, conductor Kaspars Putniņš; May 4, 2019, Tallinn, St. Nicholas's Church, World Music Days 2019
    Commissioned by: Estonian Music Days/World Music Days
    Distributor: EMIC HT 007
  • Alleluia Veni Sancte Spiritus
    2018
    3'
    mixed choir
    Fp: Vox Clamantis and joint choir, conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve; September 25, 2018, Tallinn Liberty Square, Holy Mass by Pope Francis
  • You and I
    2017
    11'
    mixed choir
    Text: Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Rūmī (in English)
    Fp: Vox Clamantis, conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve; June 26, 2017, Mariakyrkan, Båstad Chamber Music, Sweden
    FpEst: Vox Clamantis, conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve; September 30, 2017, St Nicholas's Church, Tallinn
    Commissioned by: Vox Clamantis
    CD „New Estonian Choral Music“, Estonian Music Information Centre (2021); Vox Clamantis, conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve
    Distributor: EMIC HT 008
  • Selline on õite tarkus [This Is the Wisdom of Blossoms]
    2016
    5'
    mixed choir
    Text: Maarja Pärtna
  • See algab [It Begins...]
    2015
    mixed choir
    Text: Maarja Pärtna
    Fp: Chamber Choir Collegium Musicale, conductor Endrik Üksvärav; October 3, 2015, Tallinn House of Blackheads
    Commissioned by: Chamber Choir Collegium Musicale
  • 1. Lost (Tekst: David Wagoner)
    2. Out of the Rolling Ocean (Tekst: Walt Whitman)
    3. i carry your heart with me (Tekst: e. e. cummings)

    2014
    mixed choir
    Text: David Wagoner, Walt Whitman, E.E. Cummings
    Fp: Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, conductor Kaspars Putniņš; November 21, 2014 Tartu St. John's Church, November 22, 2014, Tallinn Niguliste Church (first performance of the 1st and 3rd part). Premiere of the complete work: Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, conductor Kaspars Putniņš; April 16, 2016, Kultuurikatel, Hall of Cauldrons, Estonian Music Days
    Commissioned by: Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
  • 2009
    14'
    mixed choir
    Text: Mawlânâ Jalâluddîn Rûmî (in English, translated by Nevit Oguz Ergin)
    Fp: Netherlands Chamber Choir, conductor Grete Pedersen; September 22, 2009, Église Notre Dame in Morteau, France, Festival International de musique de Besançon
    FpEst: Vox Clamantis, conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve; April 17, 2015, Tallinn St. Nicholas's Church, Estonian Music Days Festival
    Commissioned by: Netherlands Chamber Choir
    CD „New Estonian Choral Music“, Estonian Music Information Centre (2017); Ensemble Vox Clamantis, conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve
    Distributor: EMIC HT 017
  • Vie secrète
    2002
    8'
    mixed choir (div. à 12)
    Text: Pascal Quignard
    Fp: Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, cond. Paul Hillier; June 6, 2002, Tallinn, St Michael´s Church
    Commissioned by: Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
    Manuscript
  • Exodus
    1992/1993
    10'
    2 sopranos, mixed choir (div. à 16)
    Text: Liis Kolle, Jean Marie Gustave Le Clezio and from Bible
    Fp: Chamber Choir Voces Musicales, conductor Risto Joost; March 29, 2006, Tallinn Methodist Church, (Helena Tulve composer recital), Estonian Music Days Festival
    Manuscript

Works for vocal ensemble

  • In Silence
    I The Silence of the Forest (for female voices and optional trumpet)
    II In Silence (for mixed voices and optional trumpet)
    III (for male voices and optional trumpet)

    2016
    20'
    vocal ensemble, optional trumpet
    Text: Thomas Merton (in English)
    Fp: Vox Clamantis, Trio Mediaeval, Arve Henriksen (trumpet), conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve; December 1, 2016, Tallinn Niguliste Church (premiere of I and III movement)
    Commissioned by: Vox Clamantis
  • The Silence of the Forest
    1st part of the "In Silence"
    2016
    female voices, optional trumpet
    Text: Thomas Merton (in English)
    Fp: Vox Clamantis, Trio Mediaeval, Arve Henriksen (trumpet), conductor Jaan-Eik Tulve; December 1, 2016, Tallinn Niguliste Church
    Commissioned by: Vox Clamantis
    Distributor: EMIC HT 004

ELECTRONIC, ELECTRO-ACOUSTIC AND MULTIMEDIA WORKS

  • Version of the piece with the same title written in 2002
    2023
    10'
    synthesizer
    Fp: Taavi Kerikmäe (synthesizer); May 4, 2023, Tallinn House of the Blackheads, Estonian Music Days
  • Silmaja [Beholder]
    2006/2020
    7'
    kannel, electronics
    Fp: Anna-Liisa Eller (kannel), Taavi Kerikmäe (electronics); September 13, 2020 Tartu Uus Teater, September 19, 2020 Arvo Pärt Centre, Estonian Music Days
  • Was It Light?
    2020
    30'
    4 performers: recorders, harpsichord, kannel, syhthesizer/electronics
    Fp: First performance of the first movement: The Bright Future Ensemble (Sweden-Estonia); August 29, 2020, Kai Art Center, Tallinn Music Week. First performance of the whole work: The Bright Future Ensemble (Sweden-Estonia); April 23, 2022, Arvo Pärt Centre, Estonian Music Days
    Commissioned by: The Bright Future Ensemble
  • Delta
    2003
    20'
    tape
    Fp: April 4, 2003, Kanuti Guild Hall, Estonian Music Days Festival
    Commissioned by: Estonian Music Days Festival

MUSIC FOR CHILDREN

Instrumental works for children

  • It's Evening, Light Becomes More Transparent and the Rain Seems to Cease [On õhtu, valgus muutub läbipaistvamaks ja sadu näib lakkavat]
    2007
    piano
    Fp: May 30, 2008, Käina, Rudolf Tobias Music Days
    Commissioned by: NPO Tobias Society
    Manuscript
  • Lained [Waves]
    2007
    piano
    Commissioned by: NPO Tobias Society
  • Song of the Sea [Mere laul]
    flute, piano

INCIDENTAL MUSIC

  • Sound design for Maria Valdma's exhibition "Memory Palace" [Helikujundus Maria Valdma näitusele "Mälupalee"]
    2021
    Fp: January 22, 2021 - March 28, 2021, Tallinn City Gallery
  • Music for dance performance "Su ärkvelolek on uni" ("Your Waking Is a Dream")
    Co-author Eliann Tulve
    2016
    Fp: Koolitantsu Kompanii, choreographer Kaja Lindal; November 14, 2016, Kumu Art Museum
  • Music for joint exhibition „SINA / SINA” of Helena Tulve and Krista Mölder
    2015
    Fp: June 4–22, 2015, Hobusepea Gallery, Tallinn

Film music

  • Music for feature film "Kirjad Inglile" [Letters to Ingel]
    F-Seitse ja Frame Production, directed by Sulev Keedus
    2011
    Fp: January 27, 2011, Solaris Cinema, Tallinn
  • Music for feature film "Külaline" [The Visitor]
    Backup Films, Exitfilm, Propeller Film, directed by Jukka-Pekka Valkeapää
    2008
  • Music for feature film "Somnambuul" [Somnambulance]
    Directed by Sulev Keedus
    2003
    flute, double bass

Music to plays

  • Music to Ivan Vyrypaev's play "Delhi Dance"
    2015
    Fp: February 27, 2015; Theatrum, director Lembit Peterson
  • Music to Anton Hansen Tammsaare’s play “Judith”
    2006
    Fp: September 22, 2006, Estonian National Opera