Anyone who has ever come into contact with Arvo Pärt’s music has thereby become richer and purer as a person. It leaves no one untouched or uninfluenced. It grants us time and space in this rushing and ever-contracting world.
It directs our attention towards what matters most and life’s fundamental truths and values. But I probably don’t need to speak about the importance and distinction of Pärt’s music here. We’re all very well aware of that.
A small nation can only grow large through its culture. Culture requires spirit and intentions that transcend mundane life. Yet, spirit and culture are formed through individuals. Through people who create. Without creative persons, there is no spirit. Nor culture.
Arvo Pärt is one of the most outstanding examples of that in Estonian culture. A culture that must make its nation and its country larger. Expanding beyond its physical boundaries. And in doing so, giving a balancing touch to the world that’s careering so senselessly and aimlessly. A touch that is always somehow unexpected, but also very awaited.
The subtitle of today’s gathering is “Repauso”. Renewed stop, a refreshing standstill. A pause and silence are critical components of Pärt’s music. As he’s remarked, “silence” to him signifies the “nothing” from which God created the world. A rest is something sacred. It is time allowed for consideration, but also for perceiving the universe; for awaiting truth.
For a musical pause to work, it must be encompassed by a finely-tuned and well-considered context. A form that is contemplated to the point of perfection; one where every note stands steadily in its one true place.
I’ve brought many heads of state to the Arvo Pärt Center, as here, one can perceive rest. There is space here to think and to be. And to sense what matters.
Here, everyday life comes to a standstill, just as it does in Arvo Pärt’s music. We think of Arvo Pärt as one of Estonia’s principal symbols, and I’ve come to regard the Arvo Pärt Center as one, too.
But for people to be able to come here, to seek and to sense pauses, the rest of the notes must also be steady and in place. It’s a part of our shared responsibility to nurture, carry, and grow Estonia, but also an obligation to preserve this oasis of rest for the world.
That along with the spectacular Arvo Pärt’s music, manuscripts, and diaries; with the spirit that Arvo, Nora, and the whole Arvo Pärt Center family have instilled here with all their heart.
I wish us all much wisdom and strength in preserving Arvo Pärt’s legacy!
