Korean Chamber Orchestra celebrates 60 years with finale of Beethoven Symphony Project

Poster for Korean Chamber Orchestra's upcoming concert / Courtesy of Korean chamber Orchestra

The Korean Chamber Orchestra (KCO) will present Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 and No. 5 in an upcoming concert in December, marking the ensemble’s 60th anniversary. The performance serves as the final celebratory event of the year and the culmination of the orchestra’s yearlong Beethoven Symphony Project.

“This concert will mark the end of our journey for the KCO — and the first step toward a new beginning," according to the orchestra in a statement.

“Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 marked the beginning of his creative musical world. The chamber orchestra will offer audiences its characteristically rich, concentrated sound and delicate interpretation,” the KCO added.

Regarding Symphony No. 5, the orchestra noted: “One of the world’s most famous symphonies, Beethoven’s 5th symphony embodies themes of struggle, perseverance and triumph. Under the artistic vision of Music Director Kim Min and conductor Choi Soo-yeoul, the orchestra’s dense, cohesive ensemble will come together to convey the powerful message of ‘Fate Symphony.'"

The program will also feature Samuel Barber’s Violin Concerto, Op. 14, performed by young Korean violinist Choi Song-ha.

Founded in 1965, the KCO has grown into one of Korea’s oldest and most renowned chamber ensembles, expanding its size and activities over the past six decades. Now, the orchestra has 120 musician members. Music Director Kim has been central to the orchestra’s development, having joined in 1980.

To date, the orchestra has given more than 800 performances, including 141 overseas concerts, and has released 19 albums. It performed at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris in 1999 and at the United Nations headquarters in New York in 2000 — engagements that earned the KCO the title “U.N. Official Chmber Orchestra of Peace.”

In 2021, the KCO received the Baeknam Award for its efforts to broaden public access to classical music in Korea.

Alongside its anniversary concert series, the orchestra has organized a photo exhibition reflecting on its 60-year history, released a commemorative album and completed an overseas tour.

The concert will take place at Seoul Arts Center on Dec. 13. Tickets are available on NOL Ticket.