Isang Yun

[just Jeff]

Tell me about that one would you please? I was actually just thinking about Yun these last few days. His discography is a maddening mixed bag,...and extremely expensive. I've got 4-5 good solid cds, and was looking for some more, but the logistics of buying his stuff is just too much.

This set of works kind of reminds me of Ligeti's chamber works when well performed. but with a very subtle Eastern flavor to it of course.  You would know better than I how to case the place.  PM your info to me again so I can send you a "review copy", so that you can report back your findings, and help spread the word.

[just Jeff]

Then of course the Cello Concerto (from 1975), and Sonata for Oboe, Harp, and Viola (1980) on Camerata.  Rare CD was issued in 1987.  That's practically the stone age imo.   

Heniz Holliger on Oboe!

[snyprrr]

I only have this Yun disc:

It's excellent. I really need to get more of his work, if it's of the same high calibre.

I've got a few more cds of Yun, including this Naxos disc. On First Listen, I didn't feel all that impressed with these particular pieces: the Chamber Symphony 1 and Gong-Hu go on for over 25mins. each, and have a fairly,... not static, not Takemitsu-like, not really dreamy,... well, their quality is not one of bold relief, how's that? I felt compelled to put it right in the 'Sell' pile, but I will continue listening. I was slightly disappointed with the ChS1, expecting a fuller orchestration rather than the pairs of oboes and horns coupled with strings, but we'll see what it sounds like later.

I also got the CPO cd of the Clarinet Quintets 1-2 and the SQ No.6 (Brunner/Amati SQ), and again was stymied by my disappointment. I wanted to blame it on the very good recording, feeling like I wanted Yun to have a plusher ambience (like in the Naxos disc, or the Orlando SQ recording of SQ No.5), or the performances, but that wasn't it. Perhaps it is the typical Yun way of opening a piece: strike a chord, and then portamento down a whole step, kind of like the whammy bar of an electric guitar. I also wanted to put this one in the 'Sell' pile right away, but am too disturbed by my criticisms.

This latest acquisition has put the brakes on my burgeoning YunMania, which might be just as well: the availability of his discography is frustrating, the duplication of pieces pervasive (and very confusing). The rest of the Yun Library is in storage, so I think I'll have to go get them and have a good long listen.

[Mirror Image]

I've got a few more cds of Yun, including this Naxos disc. On First Listen, I didn't feel all that impressed with these particular pieces: the Chamber Symphony 1 and Gong-Hu go on for over 25mins. each, and have a fairly,... not static, not Takemitsu-like, not really dreamy,... well, their quality is not one of bold relief, how's that? I felt compelled to put it right in the 'Sell' pile, but I will continue listening. I was slightly disappointed with the ChS1, expecting a fuller orchestration rather than the pairs of oboes and horns coupled with strings, but we'll see what it sounds like later.

I also got the CPO cd of the Clarinet Quintets 1-2 and the SQ No.6 (Brunner/Amati SQ), and again was stymied by my disappointment. I wanted to blame it on the very good recording, feeling like I wanted Yun to have a plusher ambience (like in the Naxos disc, or the Orlando SQ recording of SQ No.5), or the performances, but that wasn't it. Perhaps it is the typical Yun way of opening a piece: strike a chord, and then portamento down a whole step, kind of like the whammy bar of an electric guitar. I also wanted to put this one in the 'Sell' pile right away, but am too disturbed by my criticisms.

This latest acquisition has put the brakes on my burgeoning YunMania, which might be just as well: the availability of his discography is frustrating, the duplication of pieces pervasive (and very confusing). The rest of the Yun Library is in storage, so I think I'll have to go get them and have a good long listen.

As with any composer, they can compose works that don't appeal to us, but this, of course, isn't the composer's fault. I've only heard Yun's Symphony No. 1 via YouTube and I was so impressed by it that I bought the CPO set of symphonies. I'm going to take my time with his music and not rush out and buy all the recordings. I want to become familiar with his musical language in the symphonic form before moving on to his concerti, which, from your own praise, seem very high on the list.

How are you enjoying the CPO set of symphonies? What, in your opinion, should I listen to first?

[snyprrr]

As with any composer, they can compose works that don't appeal to us, but this, of course, isn't the composer's fault. I've only heard Yun's Symphony No. 1 via YouTube and I was so impressed by it that I bought the CPO set of symphonies. I'm going to take my time with his music and not rush out and buy all the recordings. I want to become familiar with his musical language in the symphonic form before moving on to his concerti, which, from your own praise, seem very high on the list.

How are you enjoying the CPO set of symphonies? What, in your opinion, should I listen to first?

I think his Symphonies are extremely attractive, very 'positive' sounding, reminds me of Nielsen's optimism. The Naxos disc, too, is a perfect listen for what it is. Actually, generally, all Yun I've heard is attractive, especially his later works. He ALWAyS has a bit of that Korean sound, so, if some of his peculiarities appeal to you, you should enjoy most all of it.

But sure, take some time with the Symphonies. Yun has a special sound many should enjoy, not overtly violent or unattractive like much Modern Music (oh, and his IS a Modern!).

[Mirror Image]

I think his Symphonies are extremely attractive, very 'positive' sounding, reminds me of Nielsen's optimism. The Naxos disc, too, is a perfect listen for what it is. Actually, generally, all Yun I've heard is attractive, especially his later works. He ALWAyS has a bit of that Korean sound, so, if some of his peculiarities appeal to you, you should enjoy most all of it.

But sure, take some time with the Symphonies. Yun has a special sound many should enjoy, not overtly violent or unattractive like much Modern Music (oh, and his IS a Modern!).

Great! I can't wait to hear them. I'll probably listen to the first disc in the set later on tonight.

[Mirror Image]

I was pretty damn impressed with Symphony No. 3. I'll have to go back and listen again of course, but I liked Yun's musical language.

[snyprrr]

Was just hearing the Clarinet Quintet (No.1), written for Sabine Meyer, which...mm... I'm just not finding a Masterpiece to set aside the Brahms. It has a lot of Yun's trademarks, like starting a piece off with a huge, one-step portamento, which seems to beg the question

ugh, I'm just not in the mood

[Mirror Image]

I'm looking to explore more of Yun's music. I still haven't heard all of the symphonies yet in my CPO box (I'm also quite keen to explore Krenek very soon). I have been looking at the The Art of Isang Yun series on Camerata and that looks like a great series, but oh so expensive!

[springrite]

I'm looking to explore more of Yun's music. I still haven't heard all of the symphonies yet in my CPO box (I'm also quite keen to explore Krenek very soon). I have been looking at the The Art of Isang Yun series on Camerata and that looks like a great series, but oh so expensive!

I have one CD from that series, which included a harp thing... Can't remember how it goes since I have not listened to it since 1995.

[Mirror Image]

I have one CD from that series, which included a harp thing... Can't remember how it goes since I have not listened to it since 1995.

Do you own the symphony set on CPO, Paul? I haven't finished it yet, but do like Symphony No. 1 a lot.

[springrite]

Do you own the symphony set on CPO, Paul? I haven't finished it yet, but do like Symphony No. 1 a lot.

Yes I do have the whole set on separate CDs, as well as some chamber music.

[snyprrr]

Suggestions for Thread Title? I'm not happy with 'Kimchi...'...

Used to be 'Fun with Yun', but, eh,...

'A Serious Yun Man'

'Mighty Joe Yun'

[Mirror Image]

I've got to say I like all five of Yun's symphonies. I bought several of the orchestral Camerata recordings today and will be interested in hearing some of the concerti and Muak which is described as 'a dance fantasy for large orchestra.' Sounds great already, especially since I know there will be some heavy percussion. Anyone here heard Muak before?

[Mirror Image]

Oh dear, I WAS correct: Yun IS the most neglected composer on the Net!

I do think he's neglected, but he's not any more neglected than Hartmann or William Schuman.

[Mirror Image]

My goodness the last movement of Symphony No. 5 is so moving. I was completely enchanted from start to finish that I played it twice in a row, which is something I don't do very often.

[snyprrr]

I've got to say I like all five of Yun's symphonies. I bought several of the orchestral Camerata recordings today and will be interested in hearing some of the concerti and Muak which is described as 'a dance fantasy for large orchestra.' Sounds great already, especially since I know there will be some heavy percussion. Anyone here heard Muak before?

Are you spelling that correctly?

I only have Syms. 2 & 4. How would you compare the first 4? 3 is in one movement, no?

The Cello Concerto is a mighty poignant work.

Now, just don't overdose too hard. I wouldn't want you to become disenchanted here! But, yes, I enjoy most all Yun. He has a very crystalline Late stage. But, it can be madness collecting Yun, if you don't plunk down some $$$. Camerata can tend towards expensive.

Got a better Thread Title?

[Mirror Image]

Are you spelling that correctly?

I only have Syms. 2 & 4. How would you compare the first 4? 3 is in one movement, no?

The Cello Concerto is a mighty poignant work.

Now, just don't overdose too hard. I wouldn't want you to become disenchanted here! But, yes, I enjoy most all Yun. He has a very crystalline Late stage. But, it can be madness collecting Yun, if you don't plunk down some $$$. Camerata can tend towards expensive.

Got a better Thread Title?

Yes, the name of the 'dance fantasy' is Muak. That's the way it's spelled according to the Boosey & Hawkes website.

Anyway, how do I compare Symphonies 1-4? Do I have to? They're each so different but yet they retain that unmistakable Yun 'sound.' I look at them as a continuation of the other and, in this sense, they're all like a family. Yes, I bought four Camerata recordings earlier today and they weren't cheap, but it's the only way I can get them. Have you heard Symphony No. 5? It's for baritone and large orchestra. It's a tremendous work and quite heart-wrenching. I have found all of Yun's symphonies to be rewarding and don't worry I won't overdose on his music.

In many ways, Yun reminds me of Hartmann (especially in the almost constant forward motion of the music) but with a pronounced Asian influence. I'm excited to hear his concerti, especially the ones for violin and cello.

His music is frustrating to collect and does cost money but there's so much that hasn't been recorded yet. I mean just look at all the orchestral music (including concerti) he composed:

Symphony No. 1 in four movements (1982/83)
Symphony No. 2 in three movements (1984)
Symphony No. 3 in one movement (1985)
Symphony No. 4 Im Dunkeln singen in two moevements (1986)
Symphony No. 5 for high baritone and orchestra in five movements (Nelly Sachs, 1987)
Chamber Symphony No. 1, for 2 oboes, 2 horns, and strings (1987)
Chamber Symphony No. 2 Den Opfern der Freiheit (1989)
Bara for orchestra (1960)
Symphonic Scene for large orchestra (1960)
Colloïdes sonores for strings (1961)
Fluktuationen for large orchestra (1964)
Réak for large orchestra (1966)
Dimensionen for orchestra and organ (1971)
Konzertante Figuren for small orchestra (1972)
Harmonia for 16 winds, harp & percussion (1974)
Muak for large orchestra (1978)
Exemplum in memoriam Kwangju for large orchestra (1981)
Impression for small orchestra (1986)
Mugung-Dong (Invocation) for winds, percussion and double bass (1986)
Tapis for string orchestra (1987)
Konturen for large orchestra (1989)
Silla for orchestra (1992)
Violin Concerto No. 1 (1981)
Violin Concerto No. 2 (1983–1986)
Violin Concerto No. 3 (1992)
Cello Concerto (1975/76)
Flute Concerto (1977)
Clarinet Concerto (1981)
Double Concerto for Oboe, Harp, and Chamber Orchestra (1977)
Fanfare and Memorial for orchestra with harp and flute (1979)
Gong-Hu for harp and strings (1984)
Duetto concertante for oboe, English horn, and strings (1987)
Concerto for Oboe (Oboe d'amore) and Orchestra (1990)

[Mirror Image]

Since this thread doesn't contain any biographical information, here's some:



Isang Yun was born on September 17th, 1917 near Tongyong, South Korea, and received his first musical training (cello and composition) in Korea and Japan. Active opposition to the Japanese occupation resulted in his being imprisoned until the end of World War II. After gaining his freedom, he spent a period teaching music at Korean high schools und universities.

In 1956 Yun travelled to Europe to continue his studies in Paris and Berlin (with Boris Blacher), also attending the International Courses at Darmstadt. Yun became a West German citizen in 1971, and was a resident of West Berlin from 1964.

Yun was abducted from Germany by the Korean Park regime, who imprisoned him from 1967 to 1969, and his release was followed by a period of political activity on behalf of the restitution of democracy in the country of his birth.

Since his return to Germany, he taught (1969) at the Hannover State College of Music, becoming professor of composition at the State College of Arts (Hochschule der Künste) Berlin (1970-1985).

He was a member of the Hamburg and Berlin Academies of Arts, and a honorary doctor at Tübingen University and honorary member of the ISCM, also member of the Academia Scientiarum et Artium Europaea, Salzburg, among other distinctions (Großes Bundesverdienstkreuz).

Isang Yun died on November 3, 1995 in Berlin.

[Biography taken from Boosey & Hawkes]

[snyprrr]

Yes, the name of the 'dance fantasy' is Muak. That's the way it's spelled according to the Boosey & Hawkes website.

Anyway, how do I compare Symphonies 1-4? Do I have to? They're each so different but yet they retain that unmistakable Yun 'sound.' I look at them as a continuation of the other and, in this sense, they're all like a family. Yes, I bought four Camerata recordings earlier today and they weren't cheap, but it's the only way I can get them. Have you heard Symphony No. 5? It's for baritone and large orchestra. It's a tremendous work and quite heart-wrenching. I have found all of Yun's symphonies to be rewarding and don't worry I won't overdose on his music.

In many ways, Yun reminds me of Hartmann (especially in the almost constant forward motion of the music) but with a pronounced Asian influence. I'm excited to hear his concerti, especially the ones for violin and cello.

His music is frustrating to collect and does cost money but there's so much that hasn't been recorded yet. I mean just look at all the orchestral music (including concerti) he composed:

Symphony No. 1 in four movements (1982/83)
Symphony No. 2 in three movements (1984)
Symphony No. 3 in one movement (1985)
Symphony No. 4 Im Dunkeln singen in two moevements (1986)
Symphony No. 5 for high baritone and orchestra in five movements (Nelly Sachs, 1987)
Chamber Symphony No. 1, for 2 oboes, 2 horns, and strings (1987)
Chamber Symphony No. 2 Den Opfern der Freiheit (1989)
Bara for orchestra (1960)
Symphonic Scene for large orchestra (1960)
Colloïdes sonores for strings (1961)
Fluktuationen for large orchestra (1964)
Réak for large orchestra (1966)
Dimensionen for orchestra and organ (1971)
Konzertante Figuren for small orchestra (1972)
Harmonia for 16 winds, harp & percussion (1974)
Muak for large orchestra (1978)
Exemplum in memoriam Kwangju for large orchestra (1981)
Impression for small orchestra (1986)
Mugung-Dong (Invocation) for winds, percussion and double bass (1986)
Tapis for string orchestra (1987)
Konturen for large orchestra (1989)
Silla for orchestra (1992)
Violin Concerto No. 1 (1981)
Violin Concerto No. 2 (1983–1986)
Violin Concerto No. 3 (1992)
Cello Concerto (1975/76)
Flute Concerto (1977)
Clarinet Concerto (1981)
Double Concerto for Oboe, Harp, and Chamber Orchestra (1977)
Fanfare and Memorial for orchestra with harp and flute (1979)
Gong-Hu for harp and strings (1984)
Duetto concertante for oboe, English horn, and strings (1987)
Concerto for Oboe (Oboe d'amore) and Orchestra (1990)

I have those and a few more. There's a couple of rare ones on Attaca and Ars Musici...

Yea, impressive line-up!

I do tend away from singing Symphonies. I would make an exception here.

Yea, I better not get too excited here!