SE:UM
Korean Folk Meets Jazz
SE:UM
Step into the unique world of SE:UM, a fusion of jazz and Korean traditional virtuosos who united through the pulsating beats of ancient folk tunes and shamanistic rhythms. Led by Joon Lee, recipient of the esteemed 2023 KBS Korean Traditional Music Award for his mastery of the Gayageum, this quintet is a powerhouse ensemble. Joining forces with saxophonist Hachul Song, trumpeter Jongsang Park, bassist Jaeha Lee, and traditional percussionist Hanmin Cho, this eclectic quintet is known for their boundary-breaking music. Through years of collaboration, they've harmonized their individual styles, dismantling barriers between genres to craft a unique musical tapestry.
SE:UM's meteoric rise began with their debut album, earning nominations for Best Crossover Album and Best Jazz & Crossover Performance at the Korea Music Awards in 2015. Recognized as a Choice Artist by prominent international performing arts markets like PAMS and APaMM, their captivating stage presence enchanted audiences at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, earning an outstanding five-star review. Venturing across continents, SE:UM has broken musical barriers, diving into diverse collaborations that redefine innovation in music.
For 2024 season tour, SE:UM showcases their globally acclaimed performances, highlighting tracks from their latest albums, 'The Sense of Water' and 'Korean Breath: Ten Thousand Waves'.
BAND MEMBERS: Joon Lee (gayageum, Korean percussion, music director), Jaeha Lee (contrabass & electric bass), Jongsang Park (trumpet, flugelhorn), Hanmin Cho (Korean percussion, voice), and Hachul Song (alto & soprano saxophones)
“Bringing jazz and Korean traditions together, SE:UM have found the perfect recipe in their atmospheric show Korean Breath. The artistry of the instruments playing is astounding; from saxophone to traditional stringed instrument gayageum, these musicians know how to manipulate the audience’s emotions.”
