Release

Playlists Rekindle Memories of Classical Maestros Through Top Korean Musicians

Published January 31, 2024

The treasured sounds of the past are finding new life in South Korea, as leading musicians curate playlists that honor the influence of classical piano legends. Soviet-era icon Vladimir Sofronitsky, who died in 1961, features prominently thanks to these modern tributes.

Inspiring Playlists on Apple Music Classical

Esteemed Korean pianists Cho Seong-jin and Lim Yun-chan have showcased their inspired selections, revealing Sofronitsky's influence on their craft. Their curated playlists, spotlighting revered talents, have been shared on the recently launched Apple Music Classical app.

Lim Yun-chan's Homage to Piano's Golden Era

Lim Yun-chan, the youngest ever to triumph at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, titled his playlist 'The Golden Age of Piano.' His collection is a homage to pioneering pianists who shaped an era deemed to be the pinnacle of piano artistry. Lim's playlist includes groundbreaking works by Ignaz Friedman, Dinu Lipatti, Art Tatum, Mark Hambourg, and Youri Egorov. During a press event, Lim expressed his desire for these tracks to profoundly move listeners, just as they did for him.

Cho Seong-jin's 'Piano Archives'

Cho Seong-jin's 'Piano Archives' playlist presents historical masterpieces that have influenced his musical journey. It encompasses performances by legendary figures like Alfred Cortot and Radu Lupu, ensuring these pivotal recordings remain appreciated by contemporary audiences.

Son Yeol-eum Celebrates Female Pianists

Son Yeol-eum's 'Meno mosso' playlist pays homage to female pianists who have inspired her, featuring artists such as Alicia de Larrocha, Myra Hess, Maria Grinberg, and Eileen Joyce. Son's compilation serves as a stress-relieving companion for those seeking solace in music's embrace.

June Jae-il's Lyrical Inspirations

Composer and music director June Jae-il's playlist 'Sorrowful Songs' taps into the cathartic power of melancholic music. His reflective picks provide listeners with an auditory cleanse, beginning with Bach's transformative Aria from the Goldberg Variations and weaving through works by Henryk Gorecki, Ryuichi Sakamoto, and more.

Sofronitsky, playlists, classical