CreatripTeam

Three international classical music festivals in Korea this autumn highlight dance, human connections, and gifts. The Seoul International Music Festival (Oct 30–Nov 6) theme “Dance With Me” features waltzes, tangos and ballet music performed by a specially formed festival orchestra led by top violinists and guest horn soloist–conductor Radek Baborák, with programs including Beethoven, Mendelssohn, Schubert, Stravinsky and full Beethoven cello sonatas by Gary Hoffman. The Pohang International Music Festival (Nov 7–13) centers on “bonds,” spotlighting conductor Yoon Han‑kyul (2023 Karajan Young Conductor Award) who will conduct Mahler’s Symphony No.1 and premiere his own piece “Byeolsingut” (a traditional Korean ritual-inspired work); pianist Son Min‑su will play Beethoven’s “Emperor” Piano Concerto. The Haslla International Arts Festival in Gangneung (Oct 18–26) — named after the city’s old name “Haslla” — presents a unique program “Autumnal Lyricism” based on poems by Kim Kwang‑kyun, with new settings by composer Choi Woo‑jung, soprano Lee Myung‑joo, bass‑baritone Samuel Yoon and narration by broadcaster Kim Mi‑sook. (Haslla: old name for Gangneung)