Introduction
The Brass Band Kungla has an average of 20 diligent musicians—both men and women—in its ranks.
They actively participate in cultural events in Võru County and Võru Parish and collaborate with several local congregations. The orchestra has never missed a single Song Festival and intends to continue this tradition. The Kungla Orchestra is a well-known and anticipated collective at both county and national events across Estonia.
The Kungla Orchestra has acquired a significant repertoire, possesses an outstanding sheet music library, and has managed to continuously renew and procure new instruments and equipment.
For the Brass Band Kungla, it is important to uphold the tradition of playing brass instruments within the community and to pass on skills and the joy of playing. This is why you will always find older members playing alongside their children, sisters with brothers, grandparents with grandchildren, colleagues, and neighbors in the orchestra. Several renowned brass music promoters and instrumentalists have grown out of the orchestra.
History
The Brass Band Kungla is an orchestra with long-standing traditions, and its activity has been continuous. The orchestra was founded in 1878. It was established as a 14-member brass ensemble in the then-existing Väimela rural municipality. The Kungla Orchestra celebrates its birthday on the first Saturday of August. In 2028, the Kungla Orchestra will mark its 150th year of activity.
Since the middle of the last century, the Kungla Orchestra has participated in all General and Youth Song Festivals and has received recognition in various competitions. They have performed three times in the Estonia Concert Hall and also outside the borders of Estonia: in Latvia, Finland, Russia, and Poland.
Conductors of the Brass Band Kungla Throughout the Years:
- Jaan Häusler – Founder and conductor of the orchestra (1878–1885)
- Mihkel Pihl (1885–1910)
- Mihkel Tigase (1918–1923)
- Julius Zälp (1923–1930)
- Vello Repp (1934–1969)
- Väino Repp (1969 to present)
- Märt Metsla (2024 to present)
The principal conductor of the Brass Band Kungla, Väino Repp, has been awarded the title of Honorary Citizen of Võru Parish, the Võrumaa Coat of Arms badge, the Estonian Brass Music Association's medal of merit, and a letter of appreciation from the Ministry of Social Affairs for promoting local life.
