Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture and Tallinn 2011 European Capital of Culture agreed that Arvo Pärt, the famous Estonian composer who is regarded as the Mozart of our time, would compose a new work of which the world premier will be held in Istanbul. This meaningful cooperation between the two European Capitals of Culture resulted in "Adam's Lament".

Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture Agency made an agreement with Tallinn city of Estonia which will have the title “European Capital of Culture” in 2011 for Estonian Arvo Pärt, one of the greatest contemporary composers alive, to compose a music work of which the world premiere will performed in Istanbul.Arvo Pärt is renowned by producing most effective responses to mystical searching of people in the modern world. Premiere of his work "Adam's Lament" will be realized in St.Irene on June 7, 2010.

Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture Agency signed a contract with Arvo Pärt and his publisher Universal Edition in order to realize this work which will be premiered in a special night to be held within the context of Istanbul Music Festival. The Agency is already sharing the honor with Istanbul residents. It is also a significant indication of the target of “permanence” in Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture process that one of the greatest composers alive will have composed a musical work with thanks to Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture.

Istanbul Foundation of Culture and Art will provide the production of this concert to be realized in cooperation between Istanbul 2010 European Capital of Culture and Tallinn 2011 European Capital of Culture; and present “Lifetime Success Award” to Arvo Pärt in this special night.