Park Jin-hai primarily focuses on K-dramas, entertainment shows and actor interviews. Beyond that, she also pens articles covering the broader arts scene, with a particular emphasis on classical music, dance and various aspects of lifestyle. Since joining The Korea Times in 2013, she has made significant contributions in the realms of hallyu (Korean wave), industry news and international affairs.
Belgian maestro says sound is 'physical experience on skin'
Korean National Symphony Orchestra (KNSO) Artistic Director David Reiland speaks in front of participants of the 2024 KNSO International Academy at Seoul Arts Center in Seocho District, southern Seoul, Sunday. Courtesy of KNSO
By Park Jin-hai
David Reiland, artistic director of the Korean National Symphony Orchestra (KNSO) since 2022, participated in the orchestra's International Academy program for the first time. The Belgian, who has served as a guest conductor for many orchestras in Europe and operated similar programs, noted that this multicultural, collaborative program is crucial for talented young musicians.
"Young Korean musicians have an extraordinary work ethic. Their ability to process information, handle pressure and improve rapidly is truly impressive. It's just amazing when you see how these Korean musicians (are) able to fix all the things and improve within one, two minutes or five minutes maximum. Korea's soft power is evident in this, and Europe can learn a lot from this approach. While Europe has a rich musical history and culture, Korea represents the future with its ability to adapt to the modern world and innovate," he said during an interview with The Korea Times at the Seoul Arts Center in southern Seoul, Tuesday, before the first orchestra rehearsal led by him.
"It's equally important for Western musicians to connect with this brilliant young generation. They can learn new techniques and perspectives. Both Korean and Western musicians can learn from each other. It's about finding a balance and understanding that there's no single right way. This kind of exchange is crucial for personal and professional growth."
Reiland explained that the term "espressivo," meaning to be performed in an expressive manner, can vary significantly in its interpretation between cultures. For instance, Asian musicians interpret it as a cue to produce a softer sound, while Western musicians play actually with more passion. This program encourages both groups to reflect on and find a balance between these differing approaches.
Upon this year's new addition of chamber music masterclasses, the Belgian conductor said it aims to train listening and musical intuition necessary for exceptional orchestral performance. He said the skills honed in the intimate setting of chamber music are essential for achieving a high level of musical expression in the larger orchestral context.
"Orchestra members play chamber music almost every day. This close collaboration with colleagues fosters a special energy that carries over into orchestral performances," Reiland said. "We often say in chamber music, we play with our ears and in the orchestra, we play with our eyes. I believe developing a keen sense of hearing is so crucial, especially in our visually oriented society."
Reiland said today's younger generation plays fantastically, and their virtuosity and mastery of their instruments are amazing. However, he believes it's his and older generations' responsibility to help them reconnect with the rich cultural heritage of music, saying his job is "transforming these small, black symbols into emotions."
"They can play anything, but how do they differentiate their interpretations of Mozart and Brahms, for instance? The essence of music, its cultural depth, is often overlooked. We need to emphasize that while technical proficiency is crucial, understanding the composer's message is equally important. The music of the 19th century may seem distant, but it's a foundational element for all musicians. To truly appreciate music, one must connect with its historical context, diverse cultures and emotional depth."
The director, who has been taking on many other projects to expand classical music appreciation by drawing in younger generations, says the sound is a "physical experience on your skin," urging unknowing ears to just try to attend any music concert.
"Did you ever experience the sound of 80 musicians on your skin in your body? The feeling is something that any CD listening cannot give. The music gives you a breathless feeling that you share almost at the same time with all these people without saying a word," he said.
"(A) bad case of it has been Adolf Hitler in Germany, he used the music for his huge meetings. You had more than 5,000 people feeling this proud at the same time, just because of the music. Music gives you this feeling. When you attend a rock, pop concert and (the) music starts, everybody has the same feeling just because of the sound. It's an amazing experience. But when it's live, it's way stronger."