Teacher of Life

documentary - 2025

Annika Koppel’s documentary “Teacher of Life” tells the story of pianist and teacher Helju Tauk, whose 95th birth anniversary is celebrated on March 29 this year. The film offers a portrait of an unforgettable pianist and educator, while also providing a fascinating glimpse into a particular era in Estonian history and musical life.

Helju Tauk (29.03.1930 – 04.06.2005) was a multifaceted and vibrant personality: pianist, pedagogue, musicologist, music promoter, and one of the founders of the Tallinn Music High School. She was also a dissident — her home served as a meeting place for nationally-minded intellectuals, and she shared her knowledge with students not only about music, but also about culture and life in a broader sense. Helju Tauk experienced KGB repression; she was banned from teaching and performing, yet continued her work courageously, participating in the founding of the Estonian National Independence Party.

Her most significant work was as a teacher at the music high school and conservatory, a promoter of music, and a distinguished chamber musician. Helju Tauk gave over 800 lecture-concerts in Estonian schools and other venues, performed in various chamber ensembles for decades, produced hundreds of radio and television programs, and published numerous articles. Her example inspired and encouraged many, who remain active today — in the music world and beyond.

The film features memories shared by Helju Tauk’s friends and students: Tõnis Arro, Ivari Ilja, Tunne Kelam, Madis Kolk, Kersti Kreismann, Tiina Mattisen, Arne Mikk, Lagle Parek, Tiiu Peäske, Mihkel Poll, Rein Rannap, Jüri Reinvere, and Raili Sule.