Um [Sprouting]

Um [Sprouting] is a project of original works by pianist, composer, improviser and winner of the Guildhall Gold Medal 2018, Yeonjoon Yoon. Fusing his deep understanding of Western classical music with his native Korean roots, Yeonjoon’s work draws inspiration from the sounds and sights of South Korea.

The concert begins with pieces for solo piano spanning from the Baroque era to the contemporary, featuring composers from Bach to Brad Mehldau, and Chopin to Philip Glass. The profound influence of these composers on Yoon’s artistic journey is demonstrated in the final piece of the first half, his original composition Etude No 1, Recursion.

After the interval, Yeonjoon takes centre stage to showcase his original compositions and improvisations, accompanied by Korean traditional musicians Yeji Kim on Haegeum (string) and Hannah Kim on percussion and voice. The performance concludes with a tribute to Ryuichi Sakamoto, a rendition of his exquisite Thousand Knives.

Find out more about the inspiration behind the project and what to expect at the concert in this Q&A.

Access the free digital programme for this concert here.

This concert is supported by Arts Council Korea.