South Korean composer Jin Eun Sook continues to make waves on the global stage, as her works with the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra earned the International Classical Music Awards (ICMA) Modern Music Album of the Year. The award recognizes the “Berlin Philharmonic Jin Eun Sook Edition,” a collection of her orchestral and concerto works recorded between 2005 and 2022.

Released in December 2023, the album features performances by the Berlin Philharmonic under the baton of renowned conductors Sir Simon Rattle and Chung Myung Whun. It includes collaborations with celebrated soloists such as violinist Christian Tetzlaff, cellist Alban Gerhardt, and pianist Kim Sun Wook. ICMA jurors praised the album, calling it “a perfect representation of the close and fruitful relationship between Jin Eun Sook and the Berlin Philharmonic.” They added that it “offers a comprehensive and multidimensional portrait of one of the most important composers of the 21st century.” The awards ceremony is set to take place on March 19 in Düsseldorf, Germany.

Jin’s accomplishments are unprecedented. In 2022, she became the first Asian recipient of the Ernst von Siemens Music Prize, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize of classical music.” Previous recipients include legendary figures such as Benjamin Britten, Herbert von Karajan, Claudio Abbado, and Maurizio Pollini. Her recognition in this elite group cements her place among the greatest figures in music history.

A graduate of Seoul National University’s composition program, Jin studied under the iconic modernist composer György Ligeti. She gained international acclaim with her violin concerto, which won the prestigious Grawemeyer Award for Composition. Her reputation as a transformative figure in contemporary classical music was further solidified when the Berlin Philharmonic dedicated the “Jin Eun Sook Edition” to her body of work, showcasing her mastery in orchestral textures and emotional depth.

Jin currently serves as the artistic director of the Tongyeong International Music Festival, one of Asia’s premier classical music events. Her contributions extend beyond composition, influencing the global perception of contemporary music and highlighting the growing prominence of Korean classical artists.

The recognition of Jin’s work comes at a time when South Korean musicians, such as pianists Cho Seong Jin and Lim Yunchan, are gaining international acclaim. This wave of success reflects Korea’s rising status in the global classical music community.

The achievements of Jin Eun Sook not only celebrate her brilliance but also signify the broader impact of Korean artistry on the international stage. Her groundbreaking work continues to inspire a new generation of musicians, while her role in shaping the future of classical music solidifies her legacy as a cultural pioneer.

Sayart / Nao Yim, yimnao@naver.com