That’s what GGS pianist SaeYoon Chon (ADP ’21) did when he received an email from the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Ireland asking for a virtual performance.
The Embassy wanted to celebrate Korea’s National Day, October 3, established to commemorate the foundation of Korea’s first kingdom, “Gojoseon.” The day is called “Gaecheonjeul,” meaning the day when the sky opened.
“I was invited to a dinner by the ambassador after winning the Dublin International Piano Competition [in 2018],” says SaeYoon, “and since then we kept in touch.” Last year, 300 invited guests celebrated Korea’s National Day at the ambassador’s home, but when COVID forced this year’s event online, SaeYoon was clearly top of mind.
“I received an email from the secretary of the ambassador requesting the performance,” he says. “It was a very special experience for me, and it was a big honour to play at the embassy event.”
We’ve got the video SaeYoon emailed to Ireland. Recorded in Mazzoleni Hall as a nod to the 250th anniversary of Beethoven’s birth, enjoy Piano Sonata No. 5 in F Major, Op. 10, No.2.
Back to Issue 11 of Sounds Like GGS!
