Event

Hanwha Classic Marks 10 Years of Celebrating Baroque with World-Class Performers

Published December 11, 2023

The Hanwha Classic, a unique series committed to the grandeur of Baroque music, enters its tenth year amidst grand celebrations. As it ushers in another year, the series invites Baroque enthusiasts and performers to immerse themselves once more in the rich tapestries of period music. This year's edition is enlivened by the joining of Il Giardino Armonico, a celebrated Italian ensemble, and Avi Avital, the eminent mandolin virtuoso, offering a spellbinding experience for attendees.

A Decade of Musical Delights

Marking its 10th anniversary, Hanwha Classic doesn’t just highlight timeless compositions; it’s a medium where the past meets the passion of modern musicianship. Embracing the theme 'Unity: Il Giardino Armonico and Avi Avital,' the concerts are slated for a two-day extravaganza at Seoul's renowned Concert Hall of the Seoul Arts Center.

Renowned Artists Illuminate the Stage

Il Giardino Armonico, under the baton of Giovanni Antonini, excels in music from the 17th and 18th centuries. Celebrating 37 years of musical exploration, the ensemble is no stranger to innovation within tradition, continually breathing new life into historical works. Their performances are complemented by Avi Avital’s mandate—which mirrors their own—to bring dynamic interpretations to classical compositions. Together, they traverse pieces by luminaries like Handel, Vivaldi, and Bach.

Celebrating with a Special Commission

In honor of this milestone, the Hanwha Classic has commissioned an extended rendition of 'So' by Italian composer Giovanni Sollima. Additionally, Antonini is set to play the 'piri,' a traditional Korean woodwind, showcasing the festival's dedication to a fusion of cultural musical elements.

Promoting Culture and Accessibility

Hanwha, a prominent South Korean conglomerate, supports classical music through its Hanwha Classic and the Orchestra Festival. Striving for broader appreciation, the concert series offers tickets at a single price and complimentary program books. Supplementary educational sessions aim to deepen the audience’s engagement with the Baroque genre’s complexities.

Hanwha, Baroque, Concert