DoYeon Kim: Sun Shower

2023-2024 Van Lier Fellow, DoYeon Kim, presents new work Sun Shower. This performance aims to invert tradition, by placing the gayageum, a Korean zither instrument (played by Kim), as the lead instrument supported by two master drummers—one American (Tyshawn Sorey) and one Korean (Yoon Ho-Se). This cross-cultural ensemble should prove very interesting, as Korean folk music lacks a harmony concept, and instead features intricate rhythmic cycles within a continually shifting and improvised tempo – an approach precisely opposite of the complex harmony and steady tempo typical of western music. All compositions will be original, and draw equally from the jazz, free improvisation, and Korean folk idioms. The performance will be as wholly unique as the ensemble itself: they are all accomplished improvisors, and together they bring equal representation of both western and Korean music traditions.