Unsuk Chin

Unsuk Chin is a pioneering figure in contemporary classical music, known for her distinctive and innovative compositions that blend modern and lyrical elements. Born in Seoul, South Korea, in 1961, Chin began her musical journey as a self-taught pianist before studying composition at Seoul National University and later with the renowned György Ligeti at the Hochschule für Musik und Theater Hamburg. Since 1988, she has made Berlin her home, where she continues to create her unique and captivating musical language.

Chin's work spans a wide range of genres, including orchestral, ensemble, opera, and electronic music. Her compositions are celebrated for their immediacy, sensuality, and vividness, often featuring intricate instrumental textures that shift and metamorphose, creating a rich tapestry of sound. Her music has garnered international acclaim and has been performed by some of the world's most prestigious conductors and ensembles, including Simon Rattle, Gustavo Dudamel, and Kent Nagano.

Among her notable works are the opera "Alice in Wonderland," the "Violin Concerto No. 1," and "Fantaisie mécanique." Chin's contributions to the music world have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Ernst von Siemens Music Prize, one of Germany's most prestigious music awards. In addition to her composing, Chin has served as the artistic director of several international festivals, further cementing her influence in the contemporary music scene. Her unique cultural perspective and mastery of orchestration make Unsuk Chin a composer whose music is both thought-provoking and deeply engaging.