...Lente

In the spirit of celebrating Arvo Pärt's 90th birthday, the esteemed composer's works are reimagined in an unconventional yet captivating manner on the album "...Lente." This unique interpretation is brought to life by the collaboration between Concerto Copenhagen and the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, conducted by the renowned Tõnu Kaljuste. The album, set for release on May 2, 2025, under the Berlin Classics label, offers a fresh perspective on Pärt's minimalist and spiritual sound world.

"...Lente" explores the intriguing concept of performing Pärt's music on Baroque instruments, a choice that adds a new dimension to his compositions. The album features a carefully curated selection of Pärt's works, including "Stabat Mater," "Festina Lente," "Trisagion," "Silouan's Song," and the comprehensive "Berliner Messe." Each piece is meticulously arranged for mixed choir and string orchestra, showcasing the intricate interplay between vocals and instruments.

The album's title, "...Lente," is derived from the Latin adage "Festina lente," which translates to "make haste slowly." This oxymoron encapsulates the essence of Pärt's music, characterized by its deliberate pacing and profound depth. The compositions on this album invite listeners to immerse themselves in a world of contemplation and introspection, where time seems to suspend, and every note resonates with significance.

With a duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, "...Lente" is a testament to Arvo Pärt's enduring influence and the timeless beauty of his music. This album is not just a collection of tracks but a journey through the composer's spiritual and minimalist landscape, offering a unique listening experience that highlights the harmony between Baroque instruments and Pärt's distinctive style. Whether you are a long-time admirer of Arvo Pärt or a newcomer to his work, "...Lente" promises to be a captivating exploration of sound and emotion.

Arvo Pärt, born in 1935 in Paide, Estonia, is a pioneering composer of contemporary classical music, renowned for his unique minimalist style. Since the late 1970s, Pärt has been crafting his distinctive tintinnabuli technique, which draws inspiration from Gregorian chant and creates a profound, meditative atmosphere. His compositions, such as "Fratres," "Spiegel im Spiegel," and "Für Alina," have captivated audiences worldwide, making him one of the most performed living composers. Pärt's music transcends traditional boundaries, offering listeners a spiritual and emotional journey. His innovative approach has significantly influenced the way we perceive and understand music, earning him a place among the most profound and beloved composers of our time.