Seoul Donhwamun Traditional Theater
Renowned experimental music ensemble Gongmyoung is set to enchant audiences at the esteemed Seoul Donhwamun Traditional Theater with a captivating performance scheduled for Friday and Saturday. Known for their groundbreaking approach to sound, incorporating elements from both Western and traditional Korean wind and percussion instruments, Gongmyoung has been a resident artist at the historic venue in Jongno-gu since 2022, captivating audiences with their unique musical stylings.
The upcoming performance, aptly titled "With Sea," promises to transport the audience on a mesmerizing musical voyage to the depths of the sea. Drawing inspiration from their travels to various islands and coastlines across Korea, Gongmyoung has curated a selection of 10 original compositions that encapsulate the essence of these enchanting locations.
At the heart of the performance lies the title song, "With Sea," which pays homage to a significant event that took place in 1995 near Sorido, Yeosu, in South Jeolla Province. The tragic collision of the 140,000-ton Sea Prince vessel with a reef on July 23, 1995, resulted in a catastrophic spill of approximately 5,000 metric tons of bunker fuel and crude oil. Gongmyoung's poignant composition serves as a tribute to this incident, weaving together sonic elements that evoke the awe-inspiring power and melancholic beauty of the sea.
In addition to "With Sea," Gongmyoung will showcase an array of compositions born from their exploration of islands and coastal regions. Highlights include "Wave's Memory," "Sorido," and "Deep Sea." These evocative pieces seamlessly blend traditional and contemporary elements, providing a sonic landscape that reflects the unique creative spirit of Gongmyoung.
An official from the Seoul Donhwamun Traditional Theater shared, "These songs truly embody the vibrant essence of Gongmyoung, a group that consistently engages in creative pursuits inspired by the wonders of nature." Notably, the performance features the distinctive electronic janggu, an instrument unique to Gongmyoung. The electronic drum incorporates sampled sounds from traditional Korean instruments and is played in a manner faithful to tradition. This harmonious convergence of analog and digital sounds creates a captivating audio experience that reverberates through the theater.
Tickets for this mesmerizing performance, priced at 20,000 won, can be reserved through Interpark Ticket or the Seoul Donhwamun Gukakdang website, allowing audiences to secure their place for this extraordinary musical event.
Gongmyoung, which translates to "resonance" in Korean, has been at the forefront of introducing a new genre of Korean music since their debut in 1997. The four-member ensemble skillfully blends traditional melodies with innovative sounds, utilizing a diverse range of instruments such as the guitar, piri, daegeum, haegeum, taepyeongso, and more. Notably, they also incorporate unique instruments, including a bamboo percussion instrument known as the "gongmyoung."
As Gongmyoung continues to captivate audiences with their boundary-pushing approach to music, they have already secured a place on the upcoming open-air event "Let's Play in the Yard" in September and are slated to perform at a concert in November. These engagements serve as testaments to their enduring popularity and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional Korean music.
Sayart.net
Kang In sig, insig6622@naver.com
