The Royal Philharmonic Society (RPS) has awarded its prestigious Gold Medal to composer Arvo Pärt in recognition of his extraordinary contribution to music. On September 12, RPS chair Angela Dixon and chief executive James Murphy traveled to Estonia, where they presented the award at the newly established Arvo Pärt Centre. This recognition comes concurrently with the awarding of the same medal to composer Thomas Adès this month.
Michael Pärt, son of Arvo Pärt, expressed gratitude for the honor, stating, "Music is not just about sound, but a deep connection between the past and the present, between cultures and traditions, and between individual experiences." He highlighted that his father’s music draws inspiration from early music traditions while innovatively merging them with contemporary styles.
Arvo Pärt is known for his unique tintinnabuli style, described by Michael as a journey of creative and spiritual exploration, particularly influenced by English choir music, which holds a special significance in his compositions. The importance of vocal traditions in Pärt's work is emphasized through his collaborations with renowned ensembles like The Hilliard Ensemble and its founder, Paul Hillier.
The RPS Gold Medal has a rich history, first awarded in 1871, and has honored an array of distinguished musicians, including Brahms, Stravinsky, Britten, and more recently, artists like Jessye Norman and John Williams. The medal features the image of Beethoven, celebrating his association with the Society that commissioned his Ninth Symphony.
For more on Arvo Pärt’s influential works, visit Classical Music's feature.