Pianist Son Yeol-eum of the School of Music Makes Her Debut in São Paulo, Brazil

Son Yeol-eum, a world-renowned pianist and alumna of K-Arts, made a highly successful debut in Brazil with the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra (OSESP). According to Seletivo Art, a Korean cultural and arts organization, Son received enthusiastic praise from audiences and critics for her performances at Sala São Paulo and Estação Motiva Cultural between June 25 and 28.

From June 25 to 27, Son performed with the OSESP under the baton of conductor Karen Kamensek. The program featured Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in F major, Op. 102, a work known for its warm and lyrical character, which reflects the composer’s affection for his son rather than his more familiar dark and satirical tone. Son moved local audiences with her pure, transparent sound and masterful technique.

On June 28, Son gave a recital at Estação Motiva Cultural, a multipurpose hall that opened last year. She captivated audiences with a diverse program ranging from classical works by J.S. Bach to pieces associated with Dame Myra Hess and Alicia de Larrocha, as well as sensuous jazz arrangements.

Son first rose to international prominence after winning second prize at the 2011 International Tchaikovsky Competition. Since then, she has built an impressive career performing with leading orchestras such as the New York Philharmonic and the London Symphony Orchestra. In Korea, she served as artistic director of Music in PyeongChang and has helped broaden the reach of classical music. Her debut in Brazil is expected to further highlight the stature of Korean classical music in South America.