ÖÖD and Estelon Celebrate Arvo Pärt’s 90th Birthday with Iconic Design at Carnegie Hall

An elegant blend of Estonian design and music marked Arvo Pärt's 90th birthday gala, showcasing timeless craftsmanship and sonic artistry.

A Night Where Music and Design Harmonize

There’s something truly magical when two worlds collide perfectly — especially when that collision honors a legendary figure like Arvo Pärt. On October 23, 2025, the grandeur of Carnegie Hall in New York was the backdrop for a spectacular celebration of Pärt’s 90th birthday, a night where music met minimalist design in a way only Estonia could deliver.

The concert itself was a star-studded tribute featuring the Estonian Festival Orchestra under the baton of Paavo Järvi, alongside virtuosos like Midori, Hans Christian Aavik, Nico Muhly, and the formidable Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir. But before the first note filled the air, guests were treated to a Sotheby’s-led charity auction and gala dinner that spotlighted two standout pieces from Estonian design giants ÖÖD and Estelon. These weren't just auction items — they were embodiments of Estonia’s soul: craftsmanship, minimalism, and spirituality.

ÖÖD Mirror Sauna and Estelon YB Mk II speakers featured in the Arvo Pärt 90th Birthday Gala

Estelon’s Sonic Tribute: The YB Mk II “Arvo Pärt Centre Edition”

Stepping into the realm of sound, Estelon presented the one-of-a-kind YB Mk II “Arvo Pärt Centre Edition” loudspeakers. These were no ordinary speakers; bearing Arvo Pärt’s own signature and marked as serial number 1/1, they had lived a quiet life in the composer’s own listening sanctuary at the Arvo Pärt Centre in Laulasmaa. Visitors, including the maestro himself, experienced the crystalline purity and emotional depth that these speakers delivered.

Alfred Vassilkov, Estelon’s Co-Owner and Chief Designer, perfectly captured the essence of the collaboration:

“The collaboration with the Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment represents everything Estelon stands for: the pursuit of purity, emotion, and timeless design. It has been an honour to see our YB Mk II model bring life to the Centre’s musical and spiritual atmosphere.”

This partnership wasn’t just about a product; it was a shared philosophy — where sound isn’t just heard but deeply felt.

ÖÖD’s Mirror Sauna: A Reflective Architectural Ode

On the other side of this creative duet was ÖÖD’s gift to the gala: the enchanting Mirror Sauna. This freestanding structure, handcrafted in Estonia, is a masterpiece of architectural minimalism. Its mirrored façade reflects the environment, blending nature with human design in a seamless dance of form and function.

Andreas Tiik, CEO and Co-Founder of ÖÖD, explained the deeper intent behind the sauna’s design:

“Arvo Pärt’s music reflects the same quiet depth and clarity that inspire our work at ÖÖD. We wanted to offer something that embodies the Estonian sense of peace, simplicity, and connection to nature — values that resonate deeply with his compositions. It was a privilege to contribute this sauna to a cause that celebrates his legacy and supports the Foundation’s mission.”

Imagine stepping into that mirrored sauna — a place of calm reflection, matching the spiritual stillness found in Pärt’s minimalist compositions. It’s architectural poetry, really.

Securing Arvo Pärt’s Enduring Legacy

The auction’s proceeds were destined for the Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment. This fund is vital for ensuring the Centre can preserve and share the composer’s vast musical and intellectual heritage with generations to come.

Michael Pärt, Managing Director of the Endowment, expressed heartfelt gratitude:

“I am proud to have found in ÖÖD and Estelon partners who share our values and feel a deep resonance with Arvo Pärt’s music. I am deeply grateful that our first charity auction, conducted by Sotheby’s, was received with such warmth and enthusiasm, bringing together both long-time as well as new supporters. Their generosity strengthens our mission, and we value it profoundly.”

It’s clear this event was more than just a celebration — it was a community coming together to safeguard an artistic beacon.

Estonia’s Creative Voice Shines Bright on the Global Stage

The collaboration between ÖÖD and Estelon at Carnegie Hall was a testament to Estonia’s flourishing cultural influence. Here, in one of the world’s most prestigious venues, two brands showcased the country’s signature blend of architectural innovation, cutting-edge technology, and soulful sound.

This gala was a landmark moment where Estonia’s quiet yet powerful creative spirit took center stage, reminding the world how a small nation can punch well above its artistic weight.

Auction Highlights

• Organizer: Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment
• Auctioneer: Sotheby’s
• Date: October 23, 2025
• Venue: Carnegie Hall, Rohatyn Room
• Featured Items:
  • Estelon YB Mk II “Arvo Pärt Centre Edition” Loudspeakers (Serial No. 1/1)
  • ÖÖD Mirror Sauna
• Beneficiaries: Proceeds support the Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment’s mission for long-term sustainability

Did the fusion of ultra-modern design with classical minimalism at this gala remind you of how timeless art and innovation can really be? What other creative collaborations would you love to see honored in such a way?

FAQ

• What makes the Estelon YB Mk II “Arvo Pärt Centre Edition” speakers unique?
  These speakers are a one-of-a-kind edition bearing Arvo Pärt’s signature and were specifically created for the Arvo Pärt Centre, designed to deliver pure, emotional sound that complements the composer’s work.
• How does the ÖÖD Mirror Sauna reflect Estonian design values?
  The sauna’s mirrored facade and minimalist architecture blend seamlessly with nature, embodying Estonia’s emphasis on simplicity, peace, and connection to the environment.
• What is the purpose of the Arvo Pärt Centre Endowment?
  The endowment ensures the long-term financial sustainability of the Arvo Pärt Centre, supporting preservation and promotion of Pärt’s musical heritage worldwide.
• Who participated in the birthday concert at Carnegie Hall?
  The event featured the Estonian Festival Orchestra conducted by Paavo Järvi, alongside renowned soloists Midori, Hans Christian Aavik, Nico Muhly, and the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir.
• How does this event highlight Estonia’s cultural presence globally?
  By combining elite design and world-class music in a prestigious venue, it showcased Estonia’s growing influence in art, architecture, and sound on the international stage.

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