Orchestral Tools has introduced its new sample library Salu, a collection that explores intimate instrumental and vocal textures.

Recorded at the Arvo Pärt Centre in Laulasmaa, Estonia, with an exceptional group of performers including acclaimed vocal ensemble Vox Clamantis, Salu’s sounds are delicate yet dynamic, offering a palette of emotional colors perfect for contemplative scoring, Nordic noir, and sound design.

Located in the heart of a tranquil forest 35 km to the west of the Estonian capital Tallinn, the Arvo Pärt Centre is one of Estonia’s most important cultural destinations and a gathering place for musicians who treasure its distinctly calm and contemplative ambience. The premise for Salu was to create a collection focused on capturing the softest, most delicate, and most expressive sounds and textures.

With Salu, we wanted to take an inward journey, and capture these sounds at very close range to bring out the emotion of these performances. Every note is informed by the unique atmosphere of the Arvo Pärt Centre—and we couldn’t have assembled this exceptional group of performers anywhere else.
Orchestral Tools CEO Hendrik Schwarzer.

Salu includes male and female voices from Estonian vocal ensemble Vox Clamantis, an ensemble of Estonian kannel, harps, and prepared upright piano and also includes Estonian string quartet M4GNET playing standard and experimental articulations, and a range of percussion played by Vambola Krigul.

All sounds were recorded with multiple mic options with emphasis on close miking techniques, allowing composers to dial in the exact ambience of the sound they want without losing any of the dynamics of the performance.

Salu for the Sine Player is available to purchase for the introductory price of 279 EUR until January 1st, 2023 (regular 399 EUR).

More information: Orchestral Tools