Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra Returns to Korea: What to Expect from Simon Rattle’s Performances?
Daniel Kim Views
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The Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, one of the world’s leading ensembles, returns to South Korea after a two-year absence.
Founded in 1949 by Eugen Jochum, the orchestra has developed a distinctive voice through collaborations with some of the world’s most celebrated conductors. Figures such as Mariss Jansons and Zubin Mehta have led the ensemble on previous visits to Korea, leaving lasting impressions.
Sir Simon Rattle, the orchestra’s chief conductor since the 2023/24 season, returns to the podium after his last visit. Renowned for rigorous musical inquiry, incisive interpretations and commanding charisma, he will lead the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra in performances marked by depth and clarity.
On Nov. 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Seoul Arts Center Concert Hall, the program will juxtapose musical languages from different eras: Schubert’s expansive, endlessly unfolding Symphony No. 9 in C major, the “Great,” and Igor Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring — a revolutionary score that transformed 20th-century music.
On Nov. 13 the orchestra will present Gustav Mahler’s monumental Symphony No. 2, the “Resurrection.” Soprano Lucy Crowe and mezzo-soprano Karen Cargill will be joined by the National Chorus of Korea and the Seoul Motet Choir, assembling a vast sonic force. With its interweaving of soloists, chorus and orchestra, the work confronts questions of life and death and promises to be the concert’s emotional apex.
The two-night residency offers a rare opportunity to focus entirely on Sir Simon Rattle and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, and to hear their meticulous ensemble work and richly layered sound up close.
Pre-sales for the Nov. 12 performance open to Seoul Arts Center paid members on May 19 at 1 p.m.; pre-sales for the Nov. 13 performance start the same day at 4 p.m. General sales for the Nov. 12 concert begin on May 20 at 1 p.m., and sales for the Nov. 13 concert begin on May 20 at 4 p.m., through the Seoul Arts Center, Interpark and YES24.
Photo: Vincero
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