The Estonian National Male Choir, also known as RAM (Riiklik Akadeemiline Meeskoor), was founded in 1944 by the esteemed composer and choral leader Gustav Ernesaks. Initially named the Estonian SSR State Philharmonic Male Choir, it was later called the State Academic Male Choir in 1953, and has been known as the Estonian National Male Choir since 1989. It is recognized as the largest full-time professional male choir in the world.

Ernesaks was instrumental in the choir's formation and served as its chief conductor until 1975, continuing as its artistic director until his death in 1993. The choir has since been led by various notable conductors, including Olev Oja, Kuno Areng, Ants Üleoja, Ants Soots, Kaspars Putninš, and, since the 2011/2012 season, Mikk Üleoja.

Over its extensive history, the choir has performed over 6,000 concerts globally, including in the former Soviet Union, Western Europe, Israel, Canada, and the United States. It has participated in prestigious festivals such as The Baltic Sea Festival, the Festival of Estonian Culture in Scotland, and the Sibelius Music Festival.

The choir's repertoire is diverse, ranging from a cappella pieces to large-scale works by composers like Johannes Brahms, Benjamin Britten, and Dmitri Shostakovich. They have commissioned works from contemporary composers such as Aare Kruusimäe and Tõnu Kõrvits and premiered pieces by notable Estonian composers like Arvo Pärt and Veljo Tormis.

The Estonian National Male Choir has collaborated with renowned orchestras and conductors, including Neeme Järvi, Paavo Järvi, and Riccardo Muti, and has recorded for major labels such as Deutsche Grammophon and Sony. In 2004, the choir received a Grammy Award for Best Choral Performance for their work on Sibelius’ cantatas.

Under the direction of Mikk Üleoja, the choir continues to be a prominent force in the world of choral music, performing regularly and premiering new works, including those by living composers like Arvo Pärt.