Raul Sööt

Raul Sööt is a Senior Lecturer in Jazz Music at the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre (EAMT). A versatile saxophonist, composer, and arranger, he bridges academic teaching with active performance and creative projects.

• Education
  • Georg Ots Tallinn Music School
  • Skurups Folkhögskola (Sweden)
  • Peabody Institute (Johns Hopkins University, USA)
  • Rytmisk Musikkonservatorium (Denmark)
  • Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre

His research and practice focus on jazz composition, arrangement, and ensemble performance. He has collaborated with prominent figures like Riho Sibula and Hedvig Hanson, integrating classical and jazz traditions through innovative orchestration.

Notable projects include the European Jazz Orchestra (2011), New Wind Jazz Orchestra (2019), and SPAR (2016–2019). His work emphasizes dynamic interplay between structure and improvisation, reflecting both technical mastery and artistic exploration.

• Awards
  • Estonian Jazz Association's Jazz Musician of the Year (2019)

Sööt has contributed to major Estonian jazz ensembles like the Estonian Dream Big Band and the Estonian Jazz Association's anniversary concert (2019), showcasing his role in fostering national and international jazz collaboration.