Viktor Ignatjev

February 1, 1916 – December 2, 1994
Member of the Estonian Composers' Union since 1969

Composer and multifaceted instrumentalist Viktor Ignatjev graduated from Tallinn Russian Gymnasium in 1934. Thereafter he studied Estonian Composers’ Union’s seminar for beginners and youth (1958–1962), and graduated from the Tallinn Conservatory in composition in Heino Eller’s class in 1968. Since 1935, he was active in restaurant ensembles mainly as an accorionist, but also as a trumpetist, guitarist and bass player (incl. ensembles Harmony Revellers, Dancing Travellers, Six Swingers). From 1940–1941, he was a member of variety ensemble of Estonian SSR State Philharmony.

In 1941, he was imprisoned during the war. After being freed he continued the work of musician: played in the restaurant Gloria (1942–1944), worked as an accordion and guitar player in Estonian TV and Radio Light Music Orchestra (1944–1949 ja 1955–1975). From 1948–1953, he directed the accordion course in Tallinn Pioneers Palace.

Viktor Ignatjev’s oeuvre consists mainly of light music. It includes nearly 200 songs, number of instrumental pieces, as well as children’s songs, orchestral works and instrumental chamber music. Ignatjev’s melodious, lyrical and warm songs are written – almost all of them – on texts by Otto Roots. Songs have been published in two books (Eesti Raamat, 1973 and 1986) and have won prizes at competitions, including 3rd place at the all-union competition in 1973 ("By the well"). His songs have been performed by Heli Lääts, Heidy Tamme, Helgi Sallo, Voldemar Kuslap, Uno Loop, Jaak Joala and many others.

Viktor Ignatjev has been ascribed the Estonian SSR annual music prize in 1980 (for the song "Hands") and 1984 (for "Land, homely land").

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