Korean National Symphony Orchestra (KNSO) Artistic Director David Reiland leads an orchestra rehearsal with young talents of the 2024 KNSO International Academy at Seoul Arts Center in Seocho District, southern Seoul, Tuesday. Courtesy of KNSO 35 musicians visit Korea to explore classical music, Korean culture By Park Jin-hai With the double bass seated in the middle, five musicians — two violinists, a violist, a cellist, and the double bassist — exchanged glances and began playing Dvo?ák’s String Quintet No. 2.
The playful high notes of the two violins and the viola interlocked with the foundational sounds of the cello and double bass. The music danced fluidly, shifting between faster and slower passages as if engaging in a lively conversation with melody and rhythm. A total of 12 international teams — ranging from violin-viola duos and wind quintets to string quartets, quintets, and brass ensembles — showcased their interpretations of chamber music before an audience of around 80 people at the Rode Arts Center in Seocho District, southern Seoul, Aug.
9. The performance was the culmination of five days of intensive work, including mentorship from the Korean National Symphony Orchestra (KNSO) faculty and master classes with guest musicians. Violinist Yen-chun Wang, second from left, and violist Shek Wan Li, second from right, and other participants of the 2024 International Academy showcase chamber music in front of some 80 spectators at the Rode Arts Center in Se.