Klarinet Archive - Posting 000437.txt from 1995/06

From: James M Norsworthy <norswort@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: Isang Yun - Riul
Date: Tue, 20 Jun 1995 09:43:10 -0400

Rick,

Hi there. I'm a student of Elsa's at MSU. I've met and spoken with you a
couple of times but don't think that you would remember me. Here's what I've
got on the piece. (Notes from the composer himself)

"'Riul', a Korean word, means melody or a certain type of rhythm. It is my
intention here to show the melodic character as a continually fluctuating
element. In the second half of the 1960's it was my plan to develop the idea
of "main tone" extensively.
The clarinet continually repeats the basic melodic line in the search for a
central point, in which the concept, "the strength to live further", operates.
Upon reaching the central point, it passes into a new phase, a search for yet
another point.
The piano often takes on the role of percussion instrument and at times fills
the space, caused by the clarinet holding a long note, with colorful melismas,
thus creating a formal balance.
The piece divides into three parts, the meditative central part farmed by the
two faster moving outer ones."

Don't know whether or not that helps you out or not but that's what I have. I
also have the standard short bio that everyone seems to have, telling where and
with whom he studied and so on and so forth. Nothing really insightful as to
his compositional process or anything like that. Hope you can use what I gave
you.

If you find out more on the piece or the composer himself please let me know,
as I am doing the very same work next year as well.

Thanks and good luck with everything.

Michael Norsworthy
Norswort@-----.edu

>
> Hello! I am new to this mailing list (actually, i'm new to any mailing list)
> and was wondering if anyone could help me with my problem.
> I am presently finishing my DMA degree in Clarinet Performance, and am doing
> a piece on my final recital by Isang Yun, a Korean composer, called Riul. It
> is written for clarinet and piano. I am looking for some information about
> the composers life and compositional style. I have found the usual brief bios
> in Bakers and Groves, but am looking for something more substantial. I am
> fascinated by the piece and the little that I know of his life. Any pointers
> would be greatly appreciated.
>
> Thanks, Richard Faria
> RAFaria@-----.com
>