Chunnyang
Neuma, 2026
9/10
The violinist and composer Ittai Shapira is joined by some excellent company for a trio of pieces that are inspired by a 400 year old tale of female empowerment, love, resilience and hope.
“Love In Namwon” opens with Hilá Plitmann’s touching soprano voice alongside Shapira’s elegant violin before the Royal Scottish National Orchestra enters with their symphonic qualities that mesmerize us for the 10+ minutes.
In the middle, “Separation: from Struggle to Enlightenment” finds a cinematic place to reside, where the expressive singing from Pittman is surrounded by precise and emotive strings that suit the tense bouts.
“Reunion/Celebration” exits, and it’s full of bright horns, well timed drums and dancing strings that make for an eloquent, colorful and textured finish that’s rhythmic at its core.
A highly meticulous effort that interprets Korea’s most famous folktale, the east versus west dynamics, and blues and Celtic influences help create an enlightening and memorable listening experience.
Travels well with: Zack Browning- Rock Galaxy; Christopher Shultis- Waldmusik