Tõnu Naissoo was born on March 18, 1951, in Tallinn, into the family of the renowned composer Uno Naissoo. At the age of six, he began studying piano at the Tallinn Music School, where he acquired his first musical skills. In 1970, he successfully graduated from the school with a degree in music theory, and in 1982, he completed his studies at the Tallinn State Conservatory in composition under the guidance of Eino Tamberg.
Naissoo’s creative journey began quite early. Already as a teenager, he actively participated in the musical life of Estonia, performing in various ensembles. The musician played in such groups as Optimistid, Kollage, Sinilind, Laine, Sintez, and Kaseke. For about thirty years, he worked as a pianist at the Viru Hotel, where he honed his skills and gained experience.
Naissoo proved himself to be a talented composer and performer, actively incorporating various electronic instruments into his compositions. He created music for films and theater productions, making a significant contribution to the development of Estonian cinema and theater arts.
In 1989, Tnu Naissoo received a scholarship from the Berklee College of Music and traveled to the USA, where he continued his career. His performances took place at major international venues, including the Tchaikovsky Concert Hall in Moscow, the St. Petersburg Capella, Boston Symphony Hall, Rotterdam DeDoelen, Prague Rudolfinum, and Tokyo Orchard Hall.
For his contributions to the development of musical art, Naissoo was awarded numerous honors. In 1991, he received the title of Musician of the Year by Estonian Radio, in 2011 he was awarded the Estonian Music Council Music Award, and in 2020 he became a Knight of the Order of the White Star, V Class.
Since 2001, Tnu Naissoo has been working as a professor of jazz piano at the Estonian Academy of Music and Theater. Despite his teaching activities, he continues to maintain an active concert schedule, performing worldwide and sharing his rich experience with young musicians.
