An early example of Pärt’s tintinnabular style, the mesmeric masterpiece that is Spiegel im Spiegel was originally written for violin and piano but now exists in multiple versions. Árnason more than captures its sense of stillness and serenity in his intimate interpretation, slowing the tempo to amplify its reflective qualities. He plays the mirrored ascending and descending phrases of the melodic line on the viola. Beneath this, bell-like piano notes sound in the accompaniment, like raindrops softly falling into a pool of water. Árnason made and mixed the recording at his studio in Iceland, and the track was mastered by Zino Mikorey in Berlin.

“To me, Spiegel im Spiegel is an invitation to try to see and respect things for what they are,” says Árnason. “The act of releasing this imperfect recording is embracing just that idea. It urges you to look inwards, where you ask yourself questions about the meaning of life and what to do with it.”

credits

released September 8, 2023

Composed by Arvo Pärt

Viola and Piano performed by Viktor Orri Árnason.

Recording location: VOA Studio, Iceland
Mixed, produced and recorded by Viktor Orri Árnason
Mastering: Zino Mikorey

Album photography by Viktor Orri Árnason.

Video by Viktor Orri Árnason.