As we Estonians in Canada, whether hyphenated or not, rejoice in Estonia's regained independence from the Soviet Union while feeling great about Canada's successes, the question of pride gets intertwined with identity. I suppose that's how I discovered “Art Maiste at the Piano” a half-century ago.
The accomplishments of fellow-Estos in our various North-American communities – among these New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Toronto – are used as reference when we need an artist for a special occasion or when booking someone for a concert performance. However, successes in a more international setting are cause for celebration. At a time when a milestone is reached, we have occasion to celebrate a Canadian success at world level!
Armas Maiste was only one of three Estonian-Canadian musicians that I found in the huge 1981 Canadian Encyclopedia of Music I purchased a long time ago. No doubt there have been a number of additions since then. But the main impression that I get from my sources (including the maestro himself) is Maiste's open attitude toward all forms of music – the sign of a true renaissance man. (Read more from Estonian Life No. 12 2014)
Andres Raudsepp
