Sounds Of Friendship Concert: Arirang Meets Pokarekare Ana

Thursday July 28, 2022, 7:30 p.m.
Holy Trinity Cathedral, Parnell, Auckland
FREE ENTRANCE

New Zealanders will have the chance to immerse themselves in a string ensemble from one of New Zealand’s premier orchestras, the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra (APO), as well as wonderful music created by musicians’ brightest stars. Koreans and Kiwis in July.

To mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Korea and New Zealand, the Korean Consulate in Auckland is hosting a special concert to celebrate this milestone.

The concert will kick off with a bang, with the world premiere of Korea’s “Arirang Fantasy” composed by Sunghwan Choi, which has been transcribed into an “Overture for Soprano and Strings” by Junhyuk Park. This transcription was specially written for APO and Maori opera singer, Te Ohorere Williams, who will sing in Korean. “Arirang”, narrowly translated as “to be in harmony”, is a Korean folk song, sometimes considered an unofficial national anthem. “Pōkarekare ana,” a traditional Maori song brought to Korea by New Zealand soldiers during the Korean War, is on the list of encore songs for the public to listen to. APO and the musicians will harness the beauty of Korean and New Zealand heritage and inspire unity in us all.

Alongside the world premiere of Korea’s “Arirang Fantasy”, spectators can enjoy an evening rooted in the great classics of Mendelssohn and Dvořák. The two acclaimed talented musicians, Esther Nayeon Kim, a violinist from the Korean Diaspora and Hanul Kim, an inspiring pianist of Korean and Kiwi heritage will step in to perform Mendelssohn’s Concerto for Violin, Piano and Strings. It is followed by Dvořák’s Serenade for Strings by the APO String Ensemble. This special night reflects the weaving of unity, harmony and friendship for 60 years.

This uplifting evening will be led by Korean-Kiwi conductor Jason Bae and artist Steinway. This multi-talented musician will draw on both his Korean heritage and his classical musical talent to translate them into beautiful compositions as a conductor.

This historic concert is only two weeks away. It will take place in Holy Trinity Cathedral in Parnell on Thursday 28 July. Free tickets are available at www.eventfinda.co.nz.

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