Pärt Becomes First Composer Among Academy Members
On December 7, Arvo Pärt became the first composer ever to receive membership of the Estonian Academy of Science.
The decision to include representatives of fine arts in the association of scientists and scholars was made two years ago, ETV reported.
In addition to Pärt, the candidacy of composer Erkki-Sven Tüür was set up. In total, seven experts from different walks of life were awarded academy fellowship on December 7.
"I believe that the academy made the right choice," said Jaan Ross, music scholar.
“Pärt is currently the most internationally visible Estonian composer and speaking from the scientific aspect, he has created a new paradigm in contemporary classical music," Ross said.
The Estonian Academy of Sciences was founded in 1938 to advance scientific research. It currently has 73 full members and 17 foreign members.
Ingrid Teesalu