In this issue, Eesti Elu and Estonian Music Week continue to share articles from the VEMU Estonian Museum Canada archives, about memorable events of the past. Read on for an intriguing piece about a panel discussion with composer Arvo Pärt at Tartu College, originally published in Meie Elu issue number 48 on December 17th, 1981.
“Estonian Music Under Soviet Pressure” was the basis of a panel discussion held at Tartu College on Thursday, December 10th. Dr. Endel Aruja introduced the panel members: Kristi Allik — who is applying for a doctorate degree. She recently completed her first opera based on the Kalevipoeg stories. Guest of honour and composer Arvo Pärt introduced himself with the recording of his composition “Cantus.” Lembit Avesson — a composer and music teacher. Moderating the panel was Stella Kerson. The fifth panel member, K. Raid, was unable to attend due to the completion of other duties.
Dr. Roman Toi had submitted some questions in writing, which mainly concerned the Composers’ Union, what its functions are, how the Union’s leadership is elected, whether the Union’s subordinate bodies assist composers, whether the Union decides which work is performed, etc.
A. Pärt replied that the Composers’ Union is a buffer between the composer and his work, and of course, it is also a censor in a certain sense. The decision to perform a musical work is made by the Union. In order to publish something, there must be good recommendations. All printings are made on the recommendation of the Union.
Music is a logical movement that leads to a solution. The greater the feeling, the greater the effect of art.
In the homeland, the composer receives a fee from the Ministry of Culture. Young composers are sometimes supported by the Estonian Department of the Soviet Union Music Foundation. K. Allik explained the situation in Canada. The provinces have several art councils, which often assist the composer and, if necessary, also act as sponsors. There are libraries where all the scores of musical works by Canadian composers are available.
L. Avesson discussed the importance of structure in music. Music is a logical movement that leads to a solution. The greater the feeling, the greater the effect of art.
Music creates feelings, which create tension. Monotonous music becomes boring. Tension can be caused by melody, rhythm and even silence.
It was asked whether the title “Cantus” affects the creation of feelings in Mr. Pärt’s composition? The answer: “The title certainly directs the music.”
To the question posed by K. Raid to A. Pärt: “With whom did you feel a kindred spirit while in Estonia?” the answer was: “Just as they cannot mention my name there, I cannot mention their name!”
The question was asked, “what is beauty?” The answer: a person is built in such a way that he should be able to decide what he likes and what he does not. Beauty is a matter of taste, A. Pärt thought.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Endel Aruja thanked the members of the panel for their very interesting contributions to the panel.
On May 25th, listen to Arvo Pärt and Lembit Avesson’s compositions performed by Vox Clamantis at Trinity-St. Paul’s United Church in Toronto. There will be much to celebrate, as Arvo Pärt celebrates his 90th birthday this year and the choir celebrates their 30th anniversary next year. Learn more about the programme and find tickets: 2025.estonianmusicweek.ca/vox-clamantis-arvo-part
