Concert celebrates ROK-U.S. alliance
The Eighth Army Band performs at the 10th American-Korean Holiday Concert held at the Seoul Arts Center, Sunday. / Courtesy of Seoul Cyber University
The 10th American-Korean Holiday Concert was held at the Seoul Arts Center, Sunday.
The annual concert, hosted by the Eighth U.S. Army (EUSA) and Seoul Cyber University (SCU) and sponsored by the Seoul Arts Center, is held to celebrate and promote the Korea-U.S. alliance, which marks its 67th year.
“I am proud to continue the legacy of those who came before us and built the great alliance we enjoy today,” said Lieutenant General Thomas S. Vandal, EUSA commanding general.
“Experiences like today strengthen the alliance by providing us an opportunity to build new friendships and strengthen bonds between our two nations.”
“A strong alliance between the U.S. and Korea is more important than ever, with escalating threats as North Korea develops its nuclear capabilities,” SCU President Lee Eun-joo said.
“The event gives us an opportunity to further promote friendly relations between our two countries.”
Dignitaries attending the concert included Commander of the U.S. Forces Korea Gen. Vincent K. Brooks, Gen. Vandal, Shin-Il Educational Foundation Chairman Lee Se-ung and SCU President Lee.
The Eighth Army Band performed, led by Lieutenant Colonel Treg Ancelet, who has conducted ceremonies at the White
House and Arlington National Cemetery.
The Eighth Army Band was organized in 1916 in Arizona, and in 1950 was assigned to Korea. The band participated in campaigns during the Korean War and earned decorations for its service. The soldiers of the band wear the Meritorious Unit Commendation and the Presidential Unit Citation, earned between 1951 and 1953. Its present edition consists of 55 soldier-musicians.
The concert also hosted performances by soprano Kang Hye-jung, baritone Seo Jung-hak, the Korean National Ballet (KNB) and the local Prime Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Carlo Palleschi. Principal dancers Kim Ji-young and Lee Young-cheol of the KNB took the stage.
The holiday-themed program included Christmas favorites such as “Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Edward Pola and George Wyle, as well as “Please Be Home for Christmas” by Bon Jovi. There was also a selection of classical pieces, including those of J. Strauss II.
Over 2,000 filled seats, mainly U.S. and Korean soldiers and their relatives.
The SCU, which has the largest number of soldier students among universities in Korea, has been cohosting the concert with the EUSA since 2008.