Unsuk Chin: 3 Concertos

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of contemporary classical music with Unsuk Chin's "3 Concertos," a stunning collection of works that showcase the composer's unique voice and innovative approach to the concerto form. Released in 2014, this album features three major concertos performed by the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Myung-Whun Chung, with soloists Sunwook Kim on piano, Alban Gerhardt on cello, and Wu Wei on the traditional Chinese mouth organ, the sheng.

The album opens with Chin's Piano Concerto, a four-movement work that explores the full range of the piano's expressive capabilities. Sunwook Kim's virtuosic playing brings out the piece's intricate rhythms and harmonies, while the orchestra provides a rich and varied backdrop. The Cello Concerto follows, with Alban Gerhardt delivering a powerful and nuanced performance that highlights the work's dramatic contrasts and lyrical beauty. The album concludes with "Šu for sheng and orchestra," a mesmerizing exploration of the sheng's unique timbres and textures, with Wu Wei's masterful playing at the center.

Unsuk Chin is a composer of international renown, known for her distinctive style that blends traditional and contemporary elements. As the composer-in-residence for the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra, she has been promoting contemporary music to audiences worldwide. Her opera "Alice in Wonderland" has received critical acclaim, and this album further cements her status as a leading voice in today's musical landscape.

The world premiere recording of these concertos offers a fascinating glimpse into Chin's creative process, spanning more than a decade of her compositional output. Each concerto demonstrates her ability to work within and transform existing norms, resulting in utterly convincing and thoroughly engaging music. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a curious newcomer, "3 Concertos" is an essential addition to your collection, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience.