On 19 October, the Tonhalle Zürich was filled with reverent silence and soaring sound as Paavo Järvi conducted the Estonian Festival Orchestra, joined by Midori and Hans Christian Aavik, in a moving tribute to Arvo Pärt on the occasion of his 90th birthday. With works such as Tabula rasa, Da pacem Domine, and La Sindone, the audience was invited into the profound and timeless musical world of one of Estonia’s greatest composers — a world where stillness speaks louder than sound.

Following the concert, the Estonian Chamber of Commerce in Switzerland, together with its partners, hosted the Arvo Pärt 90 Jubilee Reception. The evening was opened by Michael Reiss von Filski LLM, Honorary Consul of Estonia in Zurich, and Mariin Ratnik, Vice Minister of the Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A highlight of the reception was the presentation of the Golden Medal of Appreciation to Maestro Paavo Järvi, followed by a deeply moving and heartfelt address from the Maestro himself.

Ilona Schmiel, Intendantin of the Tonhalle, praised the long-standing collaboration with Paavo Järvi and invited guests to future concerts under his direction, marking the continuation of a remarkable artistic partnership. The Chamber extends its sincere gratitude to all co-organisers and sponsors whose support made this memorable evening possible.

We warmly thank everyone who joined us in celebrating Arvo Pärt’s 90th birthday, honouring a living legend whose music continues to touch the soul and remind us of the beauty found in simplicity.

Special thanks also to Ave-Lii Idavain, for beautifully capturing the spirit of the evening through her photography. You can view the images from the event here.