Martti Helde’s ‘Silverwhite’: A New Chapter for the ‘In the Crosswind’ Composer

Estonian Ancient Drama “Silverwhite” Secures Funding, Gears Up for 2027 Release

Haugesund, Norway – A new historical drama, “Silverwhite,” is set to begin filming in September, aiming for a 2027 release. The project, spearheaded by Estonian producer Katrin Kissa of Fenno-Ugria, has secured nearly €2 million ($2.3 million) in funding from a diverse range of sources.

The film, inspired by the stark visual language of “Macbeth” (Justin Kurzel) and “Son of Saul” (László Nemes), promises a character-driven narrative where costume and cinematography are integral to the storytelling.Details regarding the plot remain tightly under wraps, but producer Litvinova emphasizes a focus on immersive world-building.

Co-production partners already on board include Latvia’s Air Productions,known for it’s Oscar candidate “To Be Continued,” and Finland’s Inland Film Company,wich previously collaborated on the Swedish drama “The Swedish Torpedo.” Litvinova is actively seeking a fourth co-production partner and anticipates presenting the project for sales and distribution at the haugesund film market.

Funding for “Silverwhite” comes from the Estonian Film Institute, the Cultural Endowment of Estonia, the E.U.Creative Europe MEDIA mini-slate,the viru Film Fund,and Estonian national broadcaster ERR.

Baltic Cinema on the Rise: A Regional Focus

“Silverwhite” is one of six Baltic projects highlighted at the Baltic Focus within Haugesund’s New Nordic films,running alongside the Norwegian International film Festival (August 19-22). This spotlight underscores a growing momentum for cinema from estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

The Baltic region is increasingly recognized for its unique storytelling perspectives and high production values. Historically, Baltic filmmaking faced challenges related to limited funding and distribution networks. However, increased support from european funding bodies like Creative Europe, coupled with strategic co-productions, is fostering a new wave of Baltic cinema.

Beyond “Silverwhite”: Litvinova’s Expanding Portfolio

Katrin Litvinova, a former Cannes Producer on the Move, is also involved in other critically important projects. She is collaborating on the Polish film “Black Water,” produced by Lava Films, and overseeing maris Salumets’ debut documentary, “War on Women,” supported by Arte and Eurimages. This demonstrates a commitment to supporting emerging talent and diverse narratives within the European film landscape.

The rise of projects like “Silverwhite” signals a promising future for Baltic cinema, offering audiences fresh perspectives and compelling stories from a region rich in history and culture.The film’s 2027 release is eagerly anticipated by industry professionals and film enthusiasts alike.

How does *Silverwhite* represent a stylistic evolution for Martti Helde compared to *In the crosswind*?

From Estonian History to Contemporary Soundscapes

Martti Helde, the Estonian composer celebrated for his haunting and deeply moving choral work In the Crosswind, is embarking on a new artistic journey with Silverwhite. This latest composition marks a significant evolution in Helde’s style,while retaining the emotional depth and historical resonance that define his work. In the crosswind, based on letters written by Estonian deportees to Siberia during the Soviet era, garnered international acclaim for its powerful storytelling and innovative musical approach. Silverwhite signals a departure from directly narrating historical trauma, instead exploring themes of memory, landscape, and the passage of time through a more abstract and atmospheric lens.

The Genesis of ‘Silverwhite’: Inspiration and Influences

While In the Crosswind was rooted in specific historical documents, Silverwhite draws inspiration from the Estonian landscape itself – the vast forests, shimmering lakes, and the long, contemplative winters. Helde has spoken about the influence of Estonian folk music traditions,particularly the regilaul (ancient song tradition),on the melodic and harmonic language of Silverwhite.

Hear’s a breakdown of key influences:

Estonian Folk Music: The use of pentatonic scales and modal harmonies, characteristic of regilaul, are subtly woven into the fabric of the composition.

Arvo Pärt’s Tintinnabuli: While distinct, echoes of Pärt’s minimalist aesthetic can be detected in the spaciousness and harmonic clarity of Silverwhite.

Contemporary Classical Composers: Helde cites influences from composers like Kaija Saariaho and Sofia Gubaidulina, known for their exploration of timbre and spectral music.

The Estonian Landscape: The stark beauty and melancholic atmosphere of estonia’s natural habitat are central to the work’s emotional core.

Musical Characteristics and Structure of ‘Silverwhite’

Silverwhite is scored for a mixed choir, chamber orchestra, and electronics. Unlike the more overtly dramatic In the Crosswind, Silverwhite unfolds as a series of interconnected musical vignettes. The work eschews traditional narrative structures, opting instead for a more impressionistic approach.

Key musical features include:

Extended Vocal Techniques: Helde employs a range of extended vocal techniques, such as breath sounds, whispers, and microtonal harmonies, to create a unique sonic palette.

Textural Exploration: The interplay between the choir, orchestra, and electronics is crucial. Helde uses electronic processing to create shimmering textures and ethereal soundscapes.

Harmonic Language: The harmonic language is largely tonal, but often ambiguous and subtly dissonant, creating a sense of unease and longing.

Dynamic Range: A wide dynamic range, from barely audible whispers to powerful choral outbursts, contributes to the work’s emotional impact.

‘Silverwhite’ and the Evolution of Helde’s Style

In the Crosswind established Helde as a composer capable of tackling complex historical themes with sensitivity and artistic integrity. Silverwhite represents a purposeful shift towards a more introspective and abstract mode of expression. This isn’t a rejection of his previous work, but rather an expansion of his artistic vocabulary.

Consider these points:

1. From Narrative to Atmosphere: In the Crosswind told a specific story; Silverwhite evokes a mood and atmosphere.
2. Increased Emphasis on Timbre: Silverwhite places greater emphasis on the exploration of timbre and sonic textures.
3. Subtlety and Nuance: the emotional impact of Silverwhite is often achieved through subtlety and nuance, rather than overt dramatic gestures.
4. Continued Exploration of Memory: While not directly based on historical documents, Silverwhite continues to explore themes of memory and loss, albeit in a more abstract way.

Performance history and Future Prospects

Silverwhite premiered in Tallinn, Estonia, in november 2024, receiving positive reviews from critics who praised its originality and emotional depth. Subsequent performances are scheduled in Helsinki and Berlin throughout 2025. The work’s complexity and demanding vocal writing require a highly skilled ensemble, which may limit its widespread performance initially.However, the growing international recognition of Martti Helde’s work suggests that Silverwhite will find an increasingly receptive audience.

Where to Find More Data on Martti helde and His Work

For those interested in learning more about Martti Helde and his compositions, here are some useful resources:

Martti Helde’s Website: https://www.martti.us/checkout (also provides contact information: [email protected], 1301 International Pkwy, Ste 510 Sunrise, FL 33323)

Estonian Music Information Center: A extensive resource for information on Estonian composers and musicians.

Spotify/Apple Music: Search for recordings of In the Crosswind and other works by Martti Helde.

YouTube: Look for live performance videos and interviews with the composer.