Isang Yun - Sunrise Falling - Isang Yun

Album Description

Dive into the captivating world of Isang Yun with "Sunrise Falling," a compelling collection of works that showcases the composer's unique voice and profound musical insights. Released in 2018 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Yun's birth, this album is a testament to his enduring legacy and innovative compositional style.

"Sunrise Falling" features a diverse range of pieces, including Yun's powerful Cello Concerto and Violin Concerto No. 1, performed by an ensemble of exceptional musicians. Cellist Matt Haimovitz delivers a breathtaking performance of the Cello Concerto, navigating the score's controlled chaos with passion and precision. The Violin Concerto No. 1 is equally compelling, with Yumi Hwang-Williams bringing the piece to life under the baton of conductor Dennis Russell Davies.

The album also includes solo and chamber works that highlight Yun's mastery of timbre and form. Pieces like "Glissées for Solo Cello" and "Kontraste" demonstrate Yun's ability to push the boundaries of traditional instrumentation, creating sounds that are both haunting and beautiful. The inclusion of "Gasa," a work for violin and piano, adds a touch of intimacy to the collection, showcasing the composer's versatility.

With a duration of over two hours, "Sunrise Falling" offers an immersive listening experience that spans a variety of moods and textures. From the dramatic intensity of the concertos to the delicate subtlety of the solo pieces, each track reveals a different facet of Yun's genius. Whether you're a longtime fan of Isang Yun or a newcomer to his music, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.

September 1, 2018

2018 PENTATONE Music B.V.

2018 Oxingale Productions, Inc.

About Isang Yun

Isang Yun, born Yun I-sang, was a pioneering composer who bridged the musical traditions of East and West with remarkable finesse. Born in Tongyong, Korea, in 1917, Yun's early life was marked by his active resistance against the Japanese occupation. His musical journey took him to Japan and Korea for his studies, but it was in West Germany that he forged his later career, becoming the first composer from Eastern Asia to establish an international presence there.

Yun's compositions are a unique fusion of Asian philosophy, aesthetics, and musical styles with Western avant-garde techniques. His work is not just a blend but a synthesis, creating a distinct sound that is both familiar and innovative. Throughout his career, Yun was uncompromising in his artistic vision and his personal beliefs, holding fast to his dream of a united Korea. His influence extended beyond his music, encouraging contemporary music scenes in both North and South Korea.

Yun's legacy continues to inspire, commemorated through events like the ISANGYUN Competition in his birthplace of Tongyeong. His compositions invite listeners to explore the depths of his artistic vision, making him a seminal figure in the world of contemporary classical music.