Estonian military band's mishaps ahead of President Rinkēvičs' visit: forgotten hat and seasickness fears
During Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs' visit to Estonia, the Estonian military band faced minor setbacks: one musician forgot his ceremonial hat, while another worried about seasickness. The band nonetheless confirmed readiness for the performance.
Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs is on an official visit to Estonia from July 1 to 3, meeting with Estonian President Alar Karis on Seal Island on July 2. The Estonian military band is tasked with providing musical accompaniment for the event, but the musicians revealed on the day before the performance that their journey to the island was not without incidents.
The band began its trip on Tuesday, departing Tallinn by bus to Saaremaa, then by boat to Seal Island. On the bus, euphonium player Jiiri realized he had left his uniform cap at home. "It's part of the military band's uniform, and I left it. I had everything ready, but I forgot this detail. I'm not used to wearing a hat," he explained. The issue was resolved by sending a courier to catch up with the bus. Without the cap, Jiiri noted that the performance would likely have been canceled.
Bassoonist Kristjan, also visiting Seal Island for the first time, expressed hope he would have time to explore. He recalled that the band had previously performed on Saaremaa, Hiiumaa, and Prangli Island. However, he was concerned about potential seasickness: "I hope there won't be too much wind. The rocking of the boat worries me, so I bought motion sickness pills."
Band conductor Samuel Jalakas confirmed that they are ready for Wednesday's ceremony. "We have a standard ceremony—a few songs after the ceremony and before the president's arrival to create a cheerful atmosphere. The most important thing is the anthems," he said. On Tuesday evening, the band continued rehearsals, running through all pieces.
The entire trip to Seal Island takes about eight hours. Flutist Kati noted that the sea and fresh air help maintain good spirits, while Jiiri added, "Good company."
During his visit, Rinkēvičs is also meeting with the speaker of the Estonian parliament and the prime minister. The chancellery stated that the visit underscores the friendship between the two countries and their close cooperation in security, defense, cybersecurity, business, connectivity, and education.
