Thea Paluoja (Rapla, Estonia)

Her first experience as a vocal teacher dates back to 1981. From 1985 to 1988, she had a successful career as a most popular Estonian pop singer. She has received training in the Estonian Music Academy with professor Ants Üleoja. Also, she has taken part in choir music symposiums in Slovenia, Denmark and Holland. In addition, she has had continuous training in Italy, in professor Bressan’s master class. Today she works with 4 choirs, 4 vocal ensembles and over 20 soloists. From 2004 she is also conductor of Märjamaa mixed choir RELLO. In Estonian vocal competitions, Thea Paluoja has repeatedly received the title of the best singing instructor and arranger. The Estonian Choral Association gave Thea Paluoja the Conductor (Music Teacher) of the Year title in 2006. She has also received the annual awards of famous Estonian composers Riho Päts and Gustav Ernesaks and has been the grantee of the Annual Prize of the Cultural Endowment of Estonia. In 2009 she received the Culture Pearl of the Year title.