TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Renowned conductor Eliahu Inbal will lead the Taipei Symphony Orchestra (TSO, 台北市立交響樂團) on a major Asian tour starting Friday (Oct. 3), featuring acclaimed South Korean pianist Kun-woo Paik. The collaboration showcases two musical legends — the 89-year-old maestro and 79-year-old pianist — performing Chopin's Piano Concerto No. 2 in F Minor (Op.21). The tour marks a significant cultural exchange between Taiwan and regional partners.
The orchestra will visit five cities across Japan and South Korea, starting with Fukuoka, Kumamoto, and Hōfu from Oct. 10. TSO will make its South Korean debut Oct. 17-21 at the Bucheon Art Center and Tongyeong Concert Hall. The newly opened Bucheon Art Center, acclaimed for its acoustics, will host performances during the Federation for Asian Cultural Promotion's annual meeting.
Tongyeong Concert Hall holds special significance for Paik, who has recorded multiple albums at the venue that hosts the Tongyeong International Music Festival. The tour program features Mahler's Symphony No. 5 in C-sharp Minor, showcasing Inbal's expertise in a piece that chronicles emotional stages of Mahler's life. This repertoire selection highlights both artists' strengths and interpretive mastery.
Paik, a Ferruccio Busoni International Piano Competition laureate and recipient of France's Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, will perform Chopin's Piano Concerto No. 2 in South Korea. TSO presents a preview concert Oct. 3 at Taipei's National Concert Hall (台北國家音樂廳) before departing for the tour. The pre-tour performance offers audiences an advance glimpse of the musical excellence awaiting Asian concertgoers. ◼