Cho Seong-jin / Courtesy of Universal Music
Pianist Cho Seong-jin released an album featuring the complete solo piano works of French composer Maurice Ravel, commemorating the 150th anniversary of Ravel's birth. The project marks a significant milestone for Cho, who first encountered Ravel's music as a fifth grader and has nurtured a deep connection with the composer's works throughout his career.
On Jan. 17, Cho unveiled an album featuring 12 solo piano pieces by Ravel. A follow-up album with Ravel's two piano concertos is set for release on Feb. 21, with a deluxe edition combining all tracks scheduled for April 11.
In an online press conference held on Jan. 20 in Berlin, Cho reflected on the recording process. “I usually find recording very stressful, but Ravel is a composer I've thought about for a long time, so it felt different,” he said.
This is Cho's first album dedicated entirely to a single composer's works. The idea for the project originated three years ago, culminating in its release to honor Ravel's sesquicentennial.
Cho emphasized his intent to showcase the distinct qualities of Ravel's music, often confused with those of fellow French impressionist Claude Debussy. “If Debussy is free and abstract, requiring imagination, Ravel is intellectual and a perfectionist,” Cho explained. “His music doesn't allow for wide interpretative latitude, so you have to focus on tone color and texture.”
Cho Seong-jin / Courtesy of Universal Music
Marathon of Ravel's music
Cho will present Ravel's works in recitals across Europe and the U.S., including performances in Erlangen, Vienna and New York's Carnegie Hall in February. Each recital, lasting approximately three hours with two intermissions, has been dubbed a "Ravel-athon" by London's Barbican Centre, where Cho will perform in May.
Reflecting on his first performance of this program in Liechtenstein, Cho recalled the physical and mental challenges. “By the last piece, I felt completely dazed. But sharing Ravel's musical world with the audience was incredibly rewarding.”
Korean audiences will have the chance to hear Cho's Ravel recital in June. He will also collaborate with domestic orchestras, including the Gangneung Philharmonic Orchestra in July and the Gyeonggi Philharmonic Orchestra in December. “Playing in prestigious halls with great orchestras is exciting, but making music with people I truly enjoy working with is even more fulfilling,” Cho said.
This year marks 10 years since Cho won the prestigious International Chopin Piano Competition, a victory that propelled him to international stardom. Reflecting on his journey, Cho said, “I've learned so much and gained inspiration from the people I've met. I want to continue growing as a musician, exploring more repertoire while staying true to my love for music.”
Cho also shared his philosophy on music, frequently using the word “natural” during the press conference. “Ravel was a perfectionist, but his compositions flowed naturally,” he said. Similarly, he strives for performances that feel organic and logical. “On stage, I play instinctively, but during practice, I aim for interpretations that are natural and explainable.”
As he continues to delve into the works of history's greatest composers, Cho expressed gratitude for his profession. “The endless repertoire makes being a pianist such a joyful career. Playing the masterpieces of genius composers offers a profound glimpse into their world, and that's a truly rewarding experience.”
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.