Light Before Darkness

This summer, Estonian violinist Triinu Piirsalu returns to the stage of the Arvo Pärt Centre together with her ensemble partner, Danish pianist Benjamin Skydsgaard.

One of the most distinguished violinists of her generation, Triinu Piirsalu is a musician who captivates audiences with her sincere and profound sound as well as her vibrant personality. In her concert programmes, she often combines the classical repertoire with folk music, occasionally bringing the Norwegian Hardanger fiddle to the stage. In December 2025, Triinu won First Prize and three Special Prizes at the Estonian String Players Competition. “She is an authentically original talent with so much to offer!”, journalist Ia Remmel has written.

Benjamin Arnika Skydsgaard is one of the most sought-after pianists and chamber musicians of his generation in Denmark. “For musical freedom and expressiveness, it is essential for me to bring my entire life experience, every thought, and every feeling into a performance. For me, there is no other way,” he says. Benjamin was the winner of the Rued Langgaard Competition and received the Léonie Sonning Talent Prize in 2025.

“His intelligence, combined with his superb command of the instrument, makes him exceptional.” (Eugen Indjic)

“An extraordinary ensemble and mutual understanding, a flawless connection without a single ‘seam’—together creating an exceptional listening experience.” (Ia Remmel)

Programme:

Lili Boulanger
– 2 Pieces for violin and piano (1911)
Nocturne
Cortége

Ludwig van Beethoven
– Viiulisonaat nr 9 A-duur, op. 47 „Kreutzer“

Hardangeri improvisatsioonid