BIO

Erki Pärnoja is an Estonian multi-instrumentalist, composer, and guitarist whose work blends elements of indie rock, ambient music, and cinematic soundscapes. Initially gaining recognition as the guitarist for the Estonian art-pop band Ewert and The Two Dragons, Pärnoja ventured into solo work in 2015 with the release of his debut EP “Himmelbjerget”. This release marked the beginning of a distinctive, atmospheric style characterized by reverb-drenched guitars, melancholic synths, and expansive instrumental compositions that draw listeners into immersive, mood-driven sound worlds.

Pärnoja’s solo career has been defined by his ability to fuse acoustic and electronic elements into a seamless, genre-bending experience. Albums like “Efterglow” (2017) and “Leva” (2020) showcase his talent for crafting deeply emotional, cinematic music that feels both intimate and grand in scope. His sound, often described as ethereal and impressionistic, draws inspiration from Nordic landscapes, yet has earned him accolades far beyond his home country, including multiple awards at the Estonian Music Awards, such as Male Artist of the Year and Alternative/Indie Album of the Year.

Beyond his studio work, Pärnoja is an accomplished composer for film and cross-genre collaborations. “Efterglow” the title track of his second album was accompanied by a short film starring his grandmother and won Best Video at the Estonian Music Video Awards. He was also commissioned to compose “Saja Lugu” (The Story of One Hundred), a large-scale work celebrating Estonia’s centennial, which further solidified his reputation as a composer with a broad artistic vision. This project blended orchestral arrangements with his indie background, a fusion that continues to influence his evolving sound.

His 2020 album “Leva” was honored with the Alternative/Indie Album of the Year at the Estonian Music Awards, and his first choral composition, “Anima Mea”, blending choral and indie band instrumentation, was nominated for both Album of the Year and Alternative Album of the Year in 2022.

Currently, Pärnoja is focused on expanding his creative horizons through solo performances that incorporate electronics, loopers, and guitars, while continuing to compose for film and collaborate with other artists. Whether performing live or creating new works, his music is known for its rich emotional depth and cinematic quality, solidifying his place in contemporary and alternative instrumental music.