HanEum Wind Orchestra × Lee Hee-moon (Vocal) × Wi Jae-yeong (Piri), A Harmonious Encounter of Tradition and Modernity

The Daejeon Yeonjeong Korean Traditional Music Center (Daejeon Metropolitan Traditional Music Orchestra) will present a special commissioned performance, <Wind Blows>, on Friday, April 18th at 7:30 PM at the center's Grand Hall.

This unique concert will feature the HanEum Wind Orchestra, Korea's only wind orchestra specializing in traditional, adapted, and Western wind instruments, alongside Lee Hee-moon, a groundbreaking vocalist who is both a designated Important Intangible Cultural Property No. 57 (Gyeonggi Folk Song) inheritor and a leading figure in the experimental Korean traditional music scene, and Wi Jae-yeong, a renowned piri (Korean oboe) player who is a designated Important Intangible Cultural Property inheritor in Piri Jeongak (court music) and Daechwita (military processional music), a Presidential Award winner at the Daegu National Gugak Festival, and a principal player of the National Gugak Orchestra. The performance promises to transcend the boundaries of tradition and modernity, East and West, offering the audience a glimpse into the innovative possibilities of Korean traditional music.

The HanEum Wind Orchestra is distinguished by its unconventional instrumentation, comprising traditional Korean wind instruments, modernized versions, and Western wind instruments. Its versatility extends to including string instruments such as the haegeum (two-stringed fiddle) and contrabass, enabling it to perform repertoire ranging from traditional Samhyeon-Yukgak ensembles (a traditional six-instrument ensemble) to full Western orchestral arrangements. This unique characteristic allows for a rich and diverse sonic palette, capable of interpreting traditional melodies with a fresh perspective and exploring new musical territories.

Lee Hee-moon is an iconoclastic figure in the Korean traditional music world. While deeply rooted in the Gyeonggi folk song tradition, his performances are characterized by bold experimentation, theatricality, and a captivating stage presence that appeals to audiences across generations. He is known for his reinterpretations of traditional repertoire with contemporary sensibilities, often incorporating elements of pop, rock, and other genres, pushing the boundaries of what Korean traditional vocal music can be. His collaborations with various artists and his own projects have garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

Wi Jae-yeong is a master of the piri, a central instrument in Korean traditional music, particularly in court music and military processional music. His designation as an Important Intangible Cultural Property inheritor underscores his deep understanding and exceptional skill in these classical forms. However, Wi is also known for his innovative approach to the piri, exploring its potential in contemporary contexts and collaborations. His performances are marked by both technical virtuosity and a profound musicality, capable of conveying a wide range of emotions and textures. His role as a principal player in the prestigious National Gugak Orchestra speaks to his standing as one of Korea's leading piri artists.

The program for <Wind Blows> is designed to be both engaging and thought-provoking. The performance will commence with 'Sin Baetnori' (New Boat Song), a modern reinterpretation of the Gyeonggi folk song 'Baet Norae' (Boat Song), setting the stage for a fusion of tradition and contemporary sounds. This will be followed by 'Changbu Taryeong' (Song of the Entertainer), based on the Gutgeori rhythmic cycle, a vibrant and energetic piece that highlights the dynamic interplay between the orchestra and the soloists. A particular highlight will be the 'Piri Concerto Changbu Taryeong,' showcasing Wi Jae-yeong's virtuosity on the piri, featuring intricate modulations and variations on the traditional melody.

The performance begins with ‘Sinbaetnori’, a modern reinterpretation of the Gyeonggi folk song ‘Baet Song’, followed by ‘Changbu Taryeong’ based on the Gutgeori rhythm, and ‘Piri Concerto Changbu Taryeong’ featuring the flute’s prelude and the beoncheong melody. 

In addition, a diverse program unfolds, including an OST medley arranged from the movie OSTs of <Old Boy>, <Bungee Jumping of Their Own>, and <The Children of Sanchez>, a taepyeongso collaboration piece <Frontier>, and a unique stage by singer ‘Lee Hee-moon’.

Tickets for the performance can be purchased through the Daejeon City Yeonjeong Gugak Center (www.daejeon.go.kr/kmusic) and Interpark (ticket.interpark.com) websites. 

For other inquiries, contact the Daejeon City Yeonjeong Gugak Center (☎042-270-8500). 

Director Yoo Han-jun of the Daejeon City Yeonjeong Gugak Center said, “This performance will be a stage that showcases a new sense of gugak through the meeting of tradition and modernity, wind instruments and gugak,” and added, “Please show a lot of interest in this unique gugak performance that spans generations and genres.”