Ensemble OPUS performs Dvorak's "String Sextet, Op. 48" in Iksan, North Jeolla Province, July. Courtesy of OPUS
By Park Jin-hai
Ensemble OPUS, an ensemble featuring Korea's top-class musicians, will present its concert "Dreaming Afternoon" in Seoul to celebrate Christmas.
The ensemble led by artistic director Ryu Jea-joon, who has also been leading the Seoul International Music Festival since 2015, will create a magical atmosphere, perfect for celebrating the holiday season.
The concert opens with a familiar tune, the German carol "O Tannenbaum." Arranged for string quartet by Ryu, this beloved holiday music has turned into "Carol Variations," a delightful exploration of the original melody through 12 unique variations. They unfold like unwrapping presents, with each transforming in various ways — form a dance and a fugue to a canon or even jazz.
"Quintet for Clarinet and String Quartet," composed by Ryu and premiered in Seoul in 2015, will be performed next. Rather than the clarinet and string quartet competing for dominance, this piece embodies the aesthetics of coexistence and harmony. The composer will unveil the newly revised third version of the piece through this concert.
A promotional photo for Ensemble OPUS "Dreaming Afternoon" concert in Seoul / Courtesy of OPUS
Dvorak's "String Sextet, Op. 48," the final piece of the concert, was composed during a particularly optimistic period in the composer's life. The increased instrumentation results in a richer harmonic texture and a more dynamic interplay between the main melody and its counterpoint. With its infusion of Bohemian folk elements, Dvorak's music offers a vibrant and deeply emotional experience, showcasing the full potential of the string sextet.
Ensemble OPUS, established in 2009, is a distinguished classical music ensemble renowned for its exceptional musicianship. With composer Ryu as artistic director and violinist Baek Ju-young as leader, the ensemble has brought together a group of highly accomplished musicians for this special Seoul concert. Violinist Song Ji-won, violists Kim Sang-jin and Lee Han-na, cellists Kim Min-ji and Lee Jung-ran and clarinetist Cho Inn-hyuck will join to cultivate a deep musical bond that is evident in their performances.
The 90-minute "Dreamy Afternoon" concert will be held at the IBK Chamber Hall of Seoul Arts Center at 2 p.m., Dec. 22. Tickets are priced between 20,000 ($14) and 60,000 won ($42). Visit the Seoul Arts Center website to reserve a spot. For additional details, contact OPU at 1544-5142.
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