On Friday May 8, American violinist Anne Akiko Meyers releases the world premiere recording of a new arrangement of Arvo Pärt’s Estonian Lullaby for Violin and Piano, dedicated to her by the composer. She received the handwritten score as a Christmas present from Pärt last year, and recorded the three-minute work with pianist Reiko Uchida in January. The release is accompanied by a beautiful animated video. Meyers spoke to Limelight about her relationship with Arvo Pärt’s music, and how the new arrangement of his Estonian Lullaby came about.

Anne Akiko Meyers. Photograph © David Zentz

When did you first play Arvo Pärt’s music?

In the 1990’s I fell in love with his very spiritual music and performed Tabula Rasa (the double violin concerto) with the St Paul Chamber Orchestra. I remember it vividly!

When did you first meet him?

In Leipzig, Germany, 2015. It was like meeting God. I was so nervous and was scheduled to perform and record most of his violin repertoire.

How helpful was it to talk with him about how he wanted his music played?

Incredibly helpful!! I played the opening cadenza of Fratres with the entire orchestra, conductor, Arvo and his son there....