Ardo Ran Varres is a composer who has written music for almost 70 non-musical productions, films and television programs. In the same way that actors like to try out new genres, Varres likes to experiment with different music styles and genres and connect different parts of the musical spectre. In 2015 Varres was awarded the “Award for Good Theatre” by the Estonian theatre researchers and critics association.

Varres also composes concert music and larger works for the stage. In 2020 a concert of solely Varres’ music was heard at Tartu Jaani church with two world premieres among other pieces. His first full-scale opera The New Old Nick of Hellsbottom (libretto by K. Klopets after A.H. Tammsaare) will premiere at Vanemuise Theatre in Tartu in 2022.

In 2016 the Estonian Music Days presented his stage serenade “They Went and Planted…” (directed by Liis Kolle). This work concentrated on the union of music and light design.

Education:
1981-1992 Tallinn Music High School, majoring in clarinet performance
1992-1996 Drama School of Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, majoring in acting
2009-2011 Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, master’s degree in composition

Work:
1996-2001 actor at Rakvere Theatre
2001-2003 actor at Estonian Drama Theatre
2003-2011 music supervisor at Estonian Drama Theatre
Since 2011 freelance composer and actor/director
Since 2021 guest lecturer of film music at Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre