Risto Joost, a celebrated Estonian conductor and operatic countertenor of international acclaim, emerged onto the world stage on June 22, 1980, in the culturally rich and cosmopolitan city of Tallinn, Estonia.
Joost embarked upon a prolonged and intricate musical odyssey, commencing his tenure at the Tallinn Academy of Music, where he underwent a comprehensive and rigorous program of study in choir conducting, expertly mentored by the esteemed Anneli Mäeots from 1986 to 1998.
Subsequently, he furthered his academic pursuits at the esteemed Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, where he diligently honed his skills in the art of conducting under the watchful eyes of the illustrious Kuno Areng, Jüri Alperten, and Paul Mägi, as well as refining his vocal talents under the guidance of the accomplished Uku Joller and Nadja Kurem.
Joost's academic journey began in 2002 and 2003 when he pursued further education at the prestigious University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna, where he had the opportunity to hone his skills in choral conducting under the expert guidance of the renowned Erwin Ortner. Additionally, he also had the privilege of learning from the accomplished conductor Leopold Hager during his time at the university.
Joost's professional career has been characterized by a plethora of master classes with renowned conductors, including the esteemed Neeme Järvi and the illustrious Esa-Pekka Salonen. Throughout his illustrious career, he has held a multitude of conducting positions, including a stint as music director of the Tallinn Sinfonietta from 2008 to 2011, a position he still holds today, and has been leading the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra since 2013. Additionally, he has had the privilege of serving as the conductor of the esteemed Estonian National Choir since 2009.
Joost has occupied the esteemed position of principal conductor for the Nederlands Kamerkoor since 2011, as well as the Tallinn Chamber Orchestra since 2013.
Notably, he has also served as the artistic director of the MDR Rundfunkchor in Leipzig, a role he held from the 2015/2016 concert season to the 2018/2019 season.
