By Do Je-hae
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) took the classical music community by surprise when it was named the top U.S. orchestra in the latest U.K. Gramophone magazine critics’ poll.
Since 1891, many charismatic conductors have led the ensemble, honing its trademark sound and carving an identity as one of the most respected cultural institutions in the United States.
The concertmaster of the CSO since 1999, Robert Chen, recently spoke to The Korea Times about what it takes to build a great orchestra. The violinist was in Seoul this week to rehearse with the Asia Philharmonic Orchestra (APO), founded by renowned conductor Chung Myung-whun.
The CSO is a rare combination of sonic and financial health, making it a benchmark example for Asia, where the growing aspiration to build top-class orchestras has not yet produced a resounding success.