A Night of Harmony: Sohn Min-soo and Lim Yunchan Unite for a Rare Four-Hand Concert
koreaherald Views
Teacher and Student Discuss the Art of Musical Collaboration
{vi2} Acclaimed pianists Sohn Min-soo and Lim Yunchan are set to dazzle audiences next week with a rare four-hand concert in Seoul. The dynamic duo will showcase their virtuosity with works by Brahms, Rachmaninoff, and Strauss, promising an unforgettable musical experience.
{vi6} For 49-year-old Sohn, a respected educator and Honens International Piano Competition laureate, and 21-year-old Lim, who shot to stardom after winning the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition at just 18, preparing for this program was a journey of musical exploration and deep conversation. \”As musicians, we treasure the privilege of envisioning our next performance while discovering new repertoire,\” Sohn explained. Their discussions delved into the essence of \”good music\” and what constitutes a truly remarkable performance.
{vi8} \”We carefully selected pieces that allow our musical voices to blend seamlessly, creating a unified flow. These are works that resonate deeply with both of us,\” Sohn added.
{vi10} The program is a musical feast, featuring Brahms’ Sonata for Two Pianos in F Minor, Op. 34b, Rachmaninoff’s evocative Symphonic Dances, and a captivating two-piano arrangement of Strauss’ Der Rosenkavalier suite.
{vi12} \”These pieces have held a special place in my heart since I was young,\” Lim shared, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.
{vi14} Sohn elaborated on the significance of Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances, describing it as the pinnacle of the composer’s life’s work, created in his twilight years. \”Yunchan and I have spent countless hours listening to a recording of Rachmaninoff himself improvising at the piano before conductor Eugene Ormandy. We’ve shared our awe and had numerous discussions about it. This piece, which intensifies emotions of mortality, faith, and transcendence through dance, has naturally become an integral part of our musical souls.\”
{vi16} Strauss’ Der Rosenkavalier holds a special place for both pianists. Sohn was first introduced to it by his mentor, Russell Sherman, and later shared it with Lim, creating a meaningful connection between them. The two-piano arrangement they’ll perform was crafted by young composer Lee Hanurij, whom Lim described as \”a musician chosen by God.\”
{vi20} Sohn noted that the arrangement preserves the nuance and emotional depth of the original while revealing a density and delicacy unique to the piano. \”Sharing the beauty and depth of this piece through the intimate scale of two pianos will be an extraordinary experience – one that’s rarely encountered outside of grand productions,\” he enthused.
{vi23} For both pianists, the heart of duo performance lies in the art of listening. Sohn emphasized the importance of responding to each other’s musical voice and recognizing that the magic happens not through individual sound alone, but through the seamless blending of interpretations and shared musical space.
{vi25} \”Rather than adhering to a specific performance style, I simply want us to sing together,\” Lim mused. \”Performing as a duo means that while we’re teacher and student, we’re also two individuals from completely different worlds coming together to create music. The fact that we meet, grapple with ideas, and ultimately create something beautiful together – that’s what gives this performance its true meaning.\” He added that a successful duo makes the piano sing in perfect harmony.
{vi29} \”I’m in awe of those magical moments when Yunchan takes the stage,\” Sohn shared. \”It’s as if he’s reshaping time and space, instantly captivating the audience. His intense preparation to achieve true musical freedom, his constant quest to understand the essence of the music, and his willingness to set everything else aside for the sake of his art deeply move me. Off-stage, he continually challenges me to explore new perspectives and often reminds me of fundamental truths I may have overlooked. Before being my student, he’s a fellow musician who truly loves and shares music. I have the utmost respect for his sincerity and passion.\”
{vi31} Lim responded with equal admiration, saying, \”It’s impossible to pinpoint just one way my teacher has influenced me. His impact on both my life and music has been absolute and far-reaching.\”
{vi33} Music lovers can experience this extraordinary collaboration at the Hyundai Card Culture Project 30: Sohn Min-soo & Lim Yunchan concert, part of Hyundai Card’s esteemed Culture Project series. The performances will take place on July 14 at Lotte Concert Hall and July 15 at Seoul Arts Center Concert Hall.
{vi35}
Most Commented