Tallinn’s Jazzkaar Festival: More Than Just Jazz Vol. 2

A Week of Global Sounds and Local Voices in Tallinn

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Read the first part of this article here:

Thursday, April 24

Stillness in Sound: A Visit to the Arvo Pärt Centre

As part of Jazzkaar’s thoughtfully curated program for international journalists, I had the chance to visit the Arvo Pärt Centre in Laulasmaa—a serene refuge tucked into the Estonian forest, not far from Tallinn. More than an archive, the Centre feels like an extension of Pärt’s music: contemplative, spiritual, and profoundly quiet.

Set among pine trees and birdsong, the building—designed by Nieto Sobejano—blends seamlessly into its surroundings. Its long, light-filled hallways and minimalist interiors echo Pärt’s signature tintinnabuli style: every element simple, deliberate, and resonant. While we didn’t attend a performance, the cinema and concert hall were designed with the same reverence for silence and acoustics that define Pärt’s sound. Even in stillness, the space sings.

We began our visit with coffee and conversation, connecting with fellow journalists before being guided through the Centre’s spaces. The building hosts a small cinema, a concert hall, a chapel, a large library - its archive holds books, manuscripts, personal correspondence, recordings, and films. In today’s noisy, fast-paced world, the Centre offers something countercultural: a call to pause, to listen deeply.

The visit was part of a series of excursions organized by Jazzkaar, which also included Fotografiska and a guided tour through Tallinn’s Old City. Yet the quiet I found in Laulasmaa still lingers—a soft, lasting echo I’ll carry with me.

Jazzawards

There’s something quietly evident about the way Estonians live in harmony with nature. Everything feels clean, intentional, and minimal. In many of the places we visited, I noticed shops selling beautifully crafted jewelry made from wood or amber—materials that reflect a deep connection to the land. Even the Jazzkaar awards embraced this thoughtful spirit.

Instead of traditional trophies, the festival honored musicians and contributors with striking photographs of Estonian nature by photographer Kaupo Kikkas —a gentle reminder of what truly matters: beauty, simplicity, and the world we share. This year, the awards went to pianist Kristjan Randalu, named Jazz Artist of the Year for his refined and expressive work. Mathei Florea New Grounds received the Jazz Ensemble of the Year award, while veteran saxophonist Lembit Saarsalu was recognized for his lifelong contribution to Estonian jazz. Mikk Kaasik was named Audience Favourite.

Karmen Rõivassepp & Aarhus Jazz Orchestra – A Night of Lush Contrasts and Brilliance (Von Krahl)