Pianist Opts For Barber, A Singular Composer

The pianist Lee Kyung-sook made her debut 30 years ago, and to mark the occasion she will give a special performance at the Hoam Art Hall at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 27. Lee will play several compositions by the American composer Samuel Barber (1910-81).

Barber, known as "the last neo-romantic of the 20th century" and "America's Benjamin Britten," was regarded as a natural melodist. While most his contemporaries derived their inspiration from each other's style, Barber went his own way and composed works in his own style. His works are seldom performed today - which is why Lee has chosen them.

"I could have chosen more recent works by new composers, but I want to introduce people to forgotten masterpieces by lesser-known composers as well as unknown works by famous composers," she said.

"Barber's work was the first 20th century music that I studied at the Curtis Institute. He had a marvelous talent for creating fine melodies and rhythmic sensibilities, although the rich harmonies and complex rhythms are not so easy to handle."

Barber's most well-known work is "Adagio for Strings," which director Oliver Stone used in his movie "Platoon." It also was played at the funeral of Princess Grace of Monaco.

Lee will perform five Barber compositions: "Sonata," "Ballad," "Nocturne," "Excursions" and "Interlude."

They contain the layered melodies and rhythms of classical works from the romantic era.

Over the years Lee has built her fine reputation on her concerts, performing the works of Beethoven, Mozart, Prokofiev and Tchaikovsky.

For further information contact 02-543-5331.

by Lee Jang-jik