The Copenhagen Post – The spiritual overtones of composer Arvo Pärt's music make him 'one of the most original voices of our time', and have helped him earn the 2008 Léonie Sonning Music Prize, the committee awarding the honour announced Wednesday.

The award is Denmark's highest musical honour. It has been granted every year since 1959 to such internationally recognised names such as Igor Stravinsky, Miles Davis and Yo-yo Ma.

Sonning Music Foundation board member Esben Tange said the reclusive composer's 'beautiful and simple' music that finds its roots in the Orthodox tradition earned him a place in the exquisite company.

'Arvo Pärt attempts to use his music to hit something deep within us,' Tange said.

In addition to the DKK 600,000 that accompanies the award, Pärt will be celebrated through a performance of his music at the concert hall of the Danish Broadcasting Corporation next May.

This year's recipient, Danish harpsichordist and conductor Lars Ulrik Mortensen, is scheduled to receive the prize on 2 June at a concert at the Royal Danish Theatre.

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