By the decision of Estonian Government, the Cultural Prize of the Republic of Estonia was ascribed to composer Eino Tamberg, actress Ita Ever and writer Mats Traat for a long-time activity and outstanding creative achievements. Eino Tamberg (1930) is a prolific and versatile creator with powerful dramatic talent, the author of five operas, four ballets, four symphonies and numerous chamber works. His output has enriched the landscape of Estonian music already more then half of a century.
The cultural prizes for the lifework in amount of 600 000 Estonian croons will be given at the festive ceremony held on 24th of February, the anniversary of the Republic of Estonia, in the Hall of the Estonian Academy of Science. Beside lifework prizes, Cultural Prize of the Republic of Estonia for outstanding artistic achievements (150 000 Estonian croons) in 2006 was awarded to conductor Tõnu Kaljuste for the performance of the choral cycle "Women's songs" by Veljo Tormis. The same prize is to be given to art scientist Mai Levin, writer Andrus Kivirähk, director Merle Karusoo and a collective of historians including Ants Hein, Ivar Leimus, Raimo Pullat and Ants Viires.