Geoffrey Keezer

Arirang (arr.)

ensemble mezzo-soprano, flute, violin 1, violin 2, viola, cello

duration  6 minutes

written 2012

commissioned by Art of Elan

premiered Mach 27, 2022, San Diego, CA

Program Notes:

Although countless versions of this famous Korean folk song exist, the original version of the song, Jeongseon Arirang, has been sung for over 600 years. Depending on the city, there are any different translations as well, but it is widely established that the refrain refers to Arirang Pass, an imaginary meeting place for lovers in the land of dreams. The melody of the son is quite simple and beautiful, yet the lyrics refer to an abandoned lover. Incidentally, the song has been used in countless movies and was used to promote the silent black and white movie, Arirang, made in Korea in 1926 to depict life in Japanese-occupied Korea. This arrangement tonight is a world premiere and was created specifically for Art of Elan by pianist Geoffrey Keezer.