Sharp violinist and warm pianist join forces for 'A New Chapter'
Violinist Lim Dongmin, described by pianist Choi Hyunlok as precise and sharp, exuding an air of cool intensity, contrasts with Choi's own playing, which exudes warmth and fluidity.
The duo, however, has found their contrasting styles create a synergy since first meeting each other last September through the KBS Young Musicians album project.
'At first, I was concerned about whether I could keep up with Dongmin's intensity,' Choi, the 2019 winner of the Sendai International Music Competition, told The Korea Herald during an interview Thursday. 'But I realized that our contrasting styles actually enhance our performance, creating a dynamic balance.'
With distinct styles, the duo shares an affection for contemporary music, which Lim introduces as "a new chapter" in classical music. The program for the duo's recital Tuesday evening, entitled "A New Chapter," at IBK Chamber Hall in Seoul Arts Center, features 20th-century composers ― Leos Janacek, Francis Poulenc and Bela Bartok ― alongside contemporary composer Kaija Saariaho.
This selection might be considered challenging, given that many audiences perceive modern classical music as difficult or inaccessible. However, both musicians are committed to proving otherwise.
'I have a deep attachment to 20th-century music,' Lim said. 'People assume it's hard to listen to, but we selected pieces that are compelling even on a first hearing. Poulenc's violin sonata, for example, has an instantly memorable melody, and both Janacek and Bartok weave folk influences into their compositions, making them feel familiar despite their modernity,' Lim, a member of Eden Quartet, said.
Eden Quartet, consisting of Korean National University of Arts garduates who are currently studying in Germany, is a quartet on the rise that clinched the third prize at the 2023 Mozart International Competition and the second prize at the International String Quartet Competition "Premio Paolo Borciani" in 2024.
Choi highlighted the emotional and narrative quality of the program. 'Some moments feel almost cinematic, like watching a suspense film. We want the audience to be immersed, not just as listeners but as participants in the journey.'
Both musicians, based in Germany, have studied extensively in Europe, an experience that has profoundly influenced their art. Lim, who currently studies at The Hanns Eisler School of Music and Hannover University of Music, noted how immersion in German culture has deepened his understanding of its classical traditions, while Choi said the academically rigorous environment in Munster has allowed him to refine his musical perspectives.
'Being in Germany has helped me approach composers like Beethoven or Brahms with more depth,' Lim explained. 'Even just living in that cultural atmosphere changes the way you interpret their music.'
Both musicians have clear aspirations for the future. Choi, who will wrap up his Konzertexamen, the highest postgraduate degree, at Munster School of Music, said he hoped to remain an honest and emotionally resonant performer. 'I want my interpretations to feel genuine and meaningful, to move people with my playing.'
Lim, on the other hand, is focused on artistic growth. 'My biggest goal is to avoid predictability. Even if I've performed a piece many times before, I always want it to feel fresh. That continuous search for new interpretations is what keeps music alive for me.'
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