Classical music in South Korea is experiencing a remarkable transformation as it sheds its traditional image of being formal and old-fashioned to attract a younger generation of fans. The Korean Broadcasting System (KBS) Symphony Orchestra is at the forefront of this cultural shift, featuring a series of concerts in the second half of this year that showcase talented soloists born in the 1990s, paired with world-renowned conductors. This initiative reflects the growing trend of "classic-hip," a buzzword that captures how classical music has evolved to become today's music for modern audiences.
The orchestral series kicked off on July 18 with Russian pianist Dmitry Shishkin, born in 1992, performing under the direction of German conductor Markus Stenz. Shishkin has already established a strong following among Korean classical music enthusiasts, thanks in large part to his appearance on a popular Korean classical music YouTube channel, which has garnered over 15 million views and made him a household name in the local classical music scene.
The programming continues on August 29 at the Seoul Arts Center Concert Hall, where Japanese pianist Mao Fujita, born in 1998, will make his highly anticipated Korean orchestral debut. The silver medalist from the prestigious 2019 Tchaikovsky Competition will perform Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 25 under the baton of acclaimed conductor Chung Myung-Whun. The evening's program will conclude with Berlioz's dramatic "Symphonie Fantastique," creating a compelling contrast between Mozart's classical elegance and the intense emotional landscape of Romantic-era composition.
September 25 will mark another significant debut as British saxophonist Jess Gillam, also born in 1998, takes the stage at the Seoul Arts Center Concert Hall for her first Korean performance. Gillam holds the distinction of being the first saxophonist ever signed to the prestigious Decca Classics label and is recognized as the youngest soloist to perform at the BBC Proms Last Night. Known for her innovative approach that spans multiple musical genres, she will present the Korean premiere of John Adams' Saxophone Concerto under the direction of conductor Gemma New. The program will also feature Bernstein's vibrant "Candide Overture" and Copland's monumental Symphony No. 3.
The series continues on October 17 with violinist Randall Goosby, born in 1996, who brings both exceptional musical talent and important cultural representation to the stage. A graduate of the renowned Juilliard School, Goosby is of Korean-Japanese and African-American heritage and has become a prominent advocate for diversity and inclusion within the classical music world. He will perform Tchaikovsky's beloved Violin Concerto with conductor Peter Oundjian leading the orchestra. The evening's program will also include Joan Tower's "Concerto for Orchestra Suite" and Rachmaninoff's emotionally powerful Symphony No. 3.
The highlight of this youth-focused series will take place on November 21 at Lotte Concert Hall, where the KBS Symphony Orchestra will present a concert featuring the winner of the 2025 International Chopin Piano Competition as the featured soloist. The performance will be conducted by the distinguished Leonard Slatkin. The finals of this world-renowned competition, which is considered one of the most prestigious platforms for young pianists between the ages of 17 and 30, will be held in October, making this concert a celebration of the newest rising star in the classical piano world.
This innovative programming strategy reflects a broader cultural movement in Korea, where classical music institutions are successfully leveraging digital platforms like YouTube and social media to reach younger audiences. The KBS Symphony Orchestra's commitment to featuring Generation Z artists alongside established maestros demonstrates how traditional cultural institutions can evolve while maintaining their artistic excellence, ultimately ensuring that classical music remains relevant and exciting for future generations.
