'Talk Concert' Sharing the Life of a Master in Gugak
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heeyoon] Seoul Donhwamun Gugakdang announced on the 12th that it will present the 'Ilsodang Concert' as its first planned performance of 2023.
Ilsodang (佾韶堂) was a small performance hall within the National Gugak Center located on Donhwamun-ro in Jongno-gu, currently known as Gugak-ro. The Ilsodang Concert is a talk concert that recreates Ilsodang, which was central to modern and contemporary Korean music history, sharing stories and music of master musicians. The dialogue connecting tradition is hosted by music critic Song Hyunmin, who serves as the artistic director of the planned performance.
Lee Dong-gyu, holder of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage in Gagok, performing on stage on February 2. [Photo provided by Seoul Donhwamun Gugakdang]
The performance offers the stories and music of four master musicians who have steadfastly continued Korean traditional music throughout their lives, marking a page in our music history. Especially, all performers are holders of national intangible cultural heritage or Seoul Metropolitan intangible cultural heritage in performing arts, and it is expected to be filled with precious stories that are hard to encounter elsewhere, such as how they began their music careers and memories with their late masters.
The first performer on February 2 is Lee Donggyu, holder of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage in Gagok (traditional Korean vocal music). Lee Donggyu is the fifth generation in a family of Gagok singers and learned Jeongga from Lee Juhwan after the passing of his father Lee Byungseong. In this performance, he will showcase the steadfast charm of Namchang Gagok, learned through vivid stories from his time at the Gugak Training Institute and recordings left by Lee Juhwan and his father.
On February 3, Choi Kyungman, holder of Seoul Metropolitan Intangible Cultural Heritage in Samhyeonyukgak, will take the stage. Having started learning the flute from master Ji Younghee and served as a member and artistic director of the National Gugak Center’s Folk Orchestra, Choi Kyungman will reflect on his life dedicated to the transmission of folk music and present a new style of Pungnyu (traditional Korean music entertainment) stage where flute playing and melodies can be enjoyed together.
On February 9, Kim Kwangsook, holder of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage in Seodo Sori, will perform Seodo Sori learned under master Oh Boknyeo, including ‘Susimga’. Notably, the stage will feature a restored performance of ‘Hwaryongdo’, a Seodo Japga piece recorded on an old record by Kim Jongjo, active in the 1920s-30s. Additionally, she will share unforgettable stories from her singing life, including episodes of performing on the Pyongyang stage, the birthplace of Seodo Sori, together with her master Oh Boknyeo.
The final stage on February 10 will feature Kim Cheongman, holder of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage in Pansori Gobeop (accompaniment). This performance will allow the audience to appreciate Pansori and various styles of Sanjo set to Kim Cheongman’s deep yet delicate rhythms characterized by the technique of Kigyeonggyeolhae (起輕結解). Furthermore, there will be a moment to look back on his musical journey leading to his recognition as a master drummer.
The '2023 Ilsodang Concert' will be held from February 2 to 10 on Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 PM. Tickets are priced at 20,000 KRW for all seats and can be reserved through the Seoul Donhwamun Gugakdang website and Interpark Ticket.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
