The poster for the “Han Soo-Jin and the British Original” concert / Courtesy of SH Arts & Classic
A concert that is a survey course of British masterpieces
By Kwon Mee-yoo
Violinist Han Soo-jin and Orchestra The Original, under the leadership of conductor Adriel Kim, will present a new viewpoint on British classical music to the Korean audience in an upcoming concert on Feb. 7.
Named “Han Soo-Jin and the British Original,” the concert will highlight British classical music, often overshadowed by its European counterparts.
Han, acclaimed as one of Korea’s premier next-generation violinists, brings her extensive experience and education from the United Kingdom to the stage. She has been raised in the U.K. and educated at esteemed institutions such as the Yehudi Menuhin School, the Purcell School, Oxford University, and the Royal Academy of Music in London. Her chosen instrument is a 1666 Stradivarius.
The concert’s repertoire spans various British composers and styles, presenting works that have made significant contributions to the classical music panorama.
The concert will commence with Joseph Haydn’s Symphony No. 92 “Oxford,” a tribute to the Austrian composer’s ties to the U.K.
It will then guide the audience through a journey of British classics, including Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “Fantasia on Green Sleeves” and “The Lark Ascending.” Han’s interpretations will mirror her profound comprehension of British sentiment and culture. Her performance of “The Lark Ascending” is particularly anticipated, as it is widely recognized by the Korean public after being used as the background music for Kim Yu-na’s free program in the 2006-7 season.
Orchestra The Original and conductor Kim have played a pivotal role in familiarizing Korean audiences with neoclassical music. In this concert, they will delve into Edward Elgar’s “Enigma Variations,” specifically No. 8 “W.N.” and No. 9 “Nimrod.” Max Richter’s innovative “Recomposed: Vivaldi — The Four Seasons” will offer a glimpse into a more contemporary aspect of British classical music.
The Korean premiere of Eric Coates’ “London Suite,” an exemplary instance of mid-20th century British light music, will bring the evening to a close. This composition, characterized by its lyrical melodies and light-hearted nature, has been an integral part of British culture, including its feature in national events such as the 2012 London Olympics opening ceremony.
Kim, the artistic director of Orchestra The Original, is renowned for his creative approach to classical music. Having conducted premieres of contemporary works and reacquainted classics in Korea, he will bring a rich and diverse experience to the podium with a British flair at the concert.
“Han Soo-Jin and the British Original” will be held at the Concert Hall of the Seoul Arts Center on Feb. 7 at 7:30 p.m.
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