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The Michigan State University Alumni Concert in Seoul, South Korea, is an annual tradition for Korean graduates of the MSU College of Music since at least 2008. After a hiatus during the Covid-19 pandemic, it was rekindled virtually as “Global Spartans in Music,” bridging distances to keep the musical camaraderie alive. Recently, the tradition marked its return to live performances with a concert on November 1, 2023, at Ilshin Hall in Seoul.
The concert, performed by passionate alums of the college, featured ensemble performances ranging from four hands piano to quintet, and its success reflects the dedication of musicians who selflessly invest time and effort into numerous rehearsals. The collaborations of the alums transcend convenience or personal gain, exemplified by flutist Wonjung Ha’s three-hour train trips each week for two months.
The shared joy of their MSU experiences – from practicing in the Music Practice Building’s 5th-floor studios to snow-clearing escapades at Spartan Stadium – was reignited in preparation for the concert. “Preparing for this concert, we felt like we returned to the old days at MSU,” said flutist Wonjung Ha. “Special appreciation goes to The College of Music, Dean James Forger, and Professor Deborah Moriarty, whose continued interest and support showcase a mentorship that extends beyond graduation. We are very lucky to have them as our mentors forever!”
Sixteen musicians brought joy to listeners and to themselves as they dedicated months of effort to prepare for a concert and fondly recalled their time spent on MSU’s campus.
Pianists Minjae Kim (left) (MMUS, 2013, Music Performance) and Misun Moon (DMA, 2015, Music Performance) performed Mozart’s Sonata for Piano Four Hands in C Major, K. 521.
Pianist Yun-ae Ok (left) and violinist Moon Young Chang (DMA, 2015, Music Performance) delivered a captivating performance of C. Schumann’s Three Romances for Violin and Piano, Op. 22.
Clarinetist Tae Hoon Kim and pianist Hyun K. Kathleen Kim (MMUS, 1996, Music Performance) presented a mesmerizing rendition of J. Brahms’ Clarinet Sonata No. 2 in E-flat Major, Op. 120.
Violinist Mi Ryoung Kim, violist Jong Ku Kim (MMUS, 1997, Music Performance), cellist Eun Kyoung Noh, double bassist Lin Chang, and pianist Min Jung Kim (MMUS, 2003, Music Performance) collaborated seamlessly to bring to life L. Farrenc’s Piano Quintet No. 1 in A minor, Op. 30.
From left, pianist A Ram Lee, flutist Wonjung Ha, and oboist Jung Min Lee joined forces to deliver a delightful rendition of M. Dring’s Trio for Flute, Oboe, and Piano.
Violinist Ji Eun Lee (left) and pianist Soyoung Park enchanted the audience with their expressive interpretation of P. Schoenfield’s Four Souvenirs for Violin and Piano.
