Pärt

Arvo Pärt is an Estonian composer born on 11 September 1935 in Paide. He is widely regarded as one of the leading figures in late 20th-century classical music and is best known for developing the tintinnabuli style, a contemplative, minimalist approach to harmony and melody that evokes liturgical chant and bell-like sonorities.

Pärt studied at the Tallinn State Conservatory with Heino Eller. In the 1960s his early works used serial techniques, but by the mid-1970s he had developed tintinnabuli, a method in which one voice moves melodically within a diatonic scale while a second voice outlines a diatonic triad to produce luminous, sparing textures. Landmark works from this period include Für Alina (piano, 1976), Cantus in Memoriam Benjamin Britten (1977), and Tabula Rasa (1977).

During the Soviet era, some of Pärt’s music faced restrictions, but he continued to compose, and after Estonia regained independence in the 1990s his works gained international attention. He has remained based in Estonia, receiving commissions and performances worldwide.

Notable later works include Miserere, St John Passion, and Adam’s Lament. Pärt’s influence on contemporary sacred and minimalist music is widely recognized, and his compositions have been performed by leading orchestras, ensembles, and choirs around the world.