A perfect ensemble to present the essence of Beethoven’s music!

Myung-Whun Chung & Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra

World-renowned Korean conductor Myung-Whun Chung will return to Korea to perform with the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, with which he has a longstanding relationship and holds the position of honorary music director. Apart from a joint performance with the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra in 2015 as part of the Japan-Korea diplomatic relations, it has been 19 years since the orchestra last toured Korea.

The Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, founded in Nagoya in 1911, is Japan’s oldest symphony orchestra. Alongside the NHK Symphony Orchestra, it is considered Japan’s leading orchestra. Jung has been collaborating with the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra since 2000, In 2016, he made history by becoming the first foreigner to be appointed as the honorary music director.

The concert, scheduled for May 9, 2024 at the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, will feature the essence of Beethoven’s music.

In the first part of the concert, featuring Beethoven’s Triple Concerto, conductor Myung-Whun Chung will perform both as a pianist and conductor. He will be joined by internationally acclaimed violinist Jehye Lee and cellist Taeguk Mun, both recognized for their performances around the world. With three soloists on piano, violin, and cello, accompanied by an orchestra, this piece highlights the power and splendor of Beethoven’s music, particularly in live performance.

Following Beethoven’s Triple Concerto, the second part of the program will feature the Choral from Beethoven’s No. 9 Symphony, which symbolizes peace and harmony. In fact, conductor Jung has chosen it for each of his major performances, including the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra, the Liberation Day Commemorative Concert, and the City of London Festival, and has released a live recording of the piece on Deutsche Grammophon (DG).

When asked why he chooses to perform Beethoven’s Choral Symphony,

he responds, "Each time I play it, I find something new, and deeper meaning.“

Under the baton of conductor Jung, the Choral Symphony, which will be performed by over 100 members of the Japanese Orchestra and and 100 Korean choir singers, promises to deliver the most moving time of the year, going beyond the highlights of this concert.