Olav Roots papers

Feb. 26. 1910 Uderna, Tartumaa county, Estonia - Jan. 30.1974 Bogota, ColombiaEstonian conductor.Born as a schoolteacher's son. Started his piano studies in Pärnu, Estonia, later studied in Tartu Music School (Tartu Kõrgem Muusikakool) under Adele Hippius. Also studied composition under Heino Eller. After graduating from Tartu Music School, took exams to graduate from Tallinn Conservatory (Tallinna Konservatoorium), specializing in piano and composing. 1931-1935 worked in Tartu Music School as a piano and theory teacher, from 1935 was the head of conductor and chamber music class. Made his conductor debut as a conductor of „Vanemuise“ summer choir, he was 19 at the time. Also studied in Vienna, Salzburg and Paris as the Estonian Culture Capital grantee. 1939 went to work in Tallinn, became the conductor of the Estonian Broadcasting symphony orchestra. 1944 emigrated to Sweden, where he was a music teacher in Sigtuna Estonian School. In 1952, Roots was invited to Colombia, where he became the conductor of „Orquesta Sinfonica de Colombia“. He worked in Colombia for the rest of his life, making the Bogota orchestra one of the best in South America. Made guest appearances with his orchestra in Chile, Peru and Venezuela, also introducing the music of such Estonian composers as Heino Eller, Eduard Tubin, Mart Saar and Kaljo Raid.Wife: Astrid Son: Jaan (Oct. 15 1956) Awards:Award of merit from the president of Colombia for promotin Colombia's musical life.