Czech–Estonian Musical Cooperation in Tribute to Arvo Pärt
28.04.2026 / 08:10 | Aktualizováno: 28.04.2026 / 08:28
The concert dedicated to the 90th anniversary of Estonian composer Arvo Pärt brought a unique dialogue between his music and the works of a new generation of Czech composers. It took place at the unique Arvo Pärt Centre, which combines the composer’s personal archive with an information and music centre. The programme connected Forest Scenes by Jan Ryant Dřízal and Eclipse by Martin Klusák with Pärt’s iconic Tabula rasa. Klusák’s Eclipse (2018), inspired by his creative residency in Estonia, was performed in instrumentation close to Pärt’s work. Dřízal’s Forest Scenes (2023) then guided listeners through a compelling sonic landscape of Czech forests.
On stage, the Estonian Sinfonietta performed in collaboration with Czech musicians under the baton of conductor Peter Vrábel, artistic director of the Berg Orchestra. Outstanding Czech soloists Milan Al-Ashhab and Pavla Tesařová, laureates of numerous prestigious international competitions including the Tchaikovsky and Fritz Kreisler competitions, delivered remarkable performances. They were accompanied on the piano by the excellent Matouš Zukal.
In his speech, the Czech Ambassador to Estonia, Zdeněk Beránek, thanked all participants, recalled that Czechia and Estonia have much in common, and praised the global reach of Arvo Pärt’s music. He also stated: “In Czechia, we do not only listen to his music—as could be seen during this evening, Czech musicians have taken their passion for his work to a whole new level.” According to him, it is hard to imagine a better expression of the friendship between our two nations.
Photos: Kris Moor
Arvo Pärt Centre 1
Arvo Pärt Centre 2
Arvo Pärt Centre 3
Arvo Pärt Centre 4