Experience the Magic of Korean Traditional Music: The Classic Project 2026

Daedeok Cultural Center launches the first half of 2026 with The Classic Project, a series dedicated to reviving and spotlighting pure arts. Titled "Korean Traditional Melodies," the program runs three nights, from Thursday the 23rd through Saturday the 25th, at Changgong Hall in the Daegu Music Creation Center.

The run is built around solo programs that highlight traditional Korean instruments — the geomungo, piri, and gayageum. On the 23rd, geomungo sanjo specialist and designated national intangible-heritage holder Kim Ji-seong performs in the Hangap-deuk tradition. On the 24th, piri artist and fellow heritage holder Park Se-hong presents a solo recital. The series closes on the 25th with Ahn Jung-eun, associate principal gayageum of the Gyeongsangbuk-do Provincial Gugak Orchestra.

Opening night features Kim Ji-seong’s full Hangap-deuk geomungo sanjo. The performance emphasizes refined yet varied sigimsae (ornamental inflections) and restrained daejum technique, and it incorporates a storytelling element through a collaboration with sand artist Noh Seon-i.

On the 24th, piri player Park Se-hong’s program includes works such as "Sangryeongsan," a Park Beom-hun–style piri sanjo, and Bang Tae-jin’s "Taepyeongso Sinawi." Park will perform on the taepyeongso as well as a range of piri — small (so-piri), medium (jung-piri), and large (dae-piri) — showcasing the instruments’ intense yet lyrical voices. Daegeum player Kim Kyung-ae appears as a special guest.

The final concert centers on Ahn Jung-eun’s gayageum solo, featuring pieces such as "Chunsul" for the 17-string gayageum, Kim Juk-pa–style gayageum sanjo, and the court composition "Junggwangjigok." Together they highlight the gayageum’s delicate timbre and expressive depth.

Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. on the 23rd and 24th, and at 3:00 p.m. on the 25th. The series is suitable for ages 5 and up, and admission is free.