Hilgeum with Alice Zawadzki
A tapestry of ancient tones and an untamed voice
SAT 18 OCT 19:45 | Purcell Room, Southbank Centre
Hilgeum, a rising Korean trio redefining traditional string instruments, will make their London debut at the K-Music Festival, joining forces with the British award-winning singer, multi-instrumentalist and composer Alice Zawadzki. Known for her expressive voice and genre-defying artistry, Zawadzki will blend seamlessly with Hilgeum’s rich, textured strings to create an intimate, cross-cultural performance.
Formed by Yoin Cho (gayageum, a 12-string zither), Yerim Kim (geomungo, a six-string zither), and Somin Park (haegeum, a two-string fiddle), Hilgeum weaves emotionally resonant, intricately layered music that speaks to a new generation.
The trio’s 2022 debut album Utopia explores cinematic soundscapes, while their 2024 EP WASTELAND takes a bold turn into raw, emotionally charged territory. Hilgeum have performed at major venues including the National Theater of Korea and represented Korean culture on the global stage, with standout appearances at the Hide & Seek Festival in Brussels and Les Polysons Festival in Huy, solidifying their reputation as one of Korea’s most captivating and innovative contemporary acts.
This programme is presented in partnership with the National Asia Art Centre.
Credits:
Yoin Cho (gayageum)
Yerim Kim (geomungo)
Somin Park (haegeum)
Alice Zawadzki (vocals, violin)
